What causes migraines?
There has been a lot of research looking into the reason migraines occur. We have come a long way however we still have much to learn.
Vascular risk factors: raised inflammatory markers (CRP, interleukins, TNF-alpha and adhesion molecules) have been implicated; increased body weight, high blood pressure, increased cholesterol, and it can be associated with chronic conditions such as diabetes, strokes and coronary heart disease.
Genetic: Migraine has a strong genetic component. Approximately 70% of migraine patients have a first-degree relative with a history of migraine.
Migraine triggers
- Hormonal changes, e.g. associated with menstruation and pregnancy
- Stress
- Excessive or insufficient sleep
- Medications e.g. vasodilators, oral contraceptive
- Smoking
- Exposure to bright or fluorescent lighting
- Strong odours e.g. perfumes or petrol
- Head injuries
- Weather changes
- Motion sickness
- Cold stimulus e.g. ice cream headaches
- Lack of exercise
- Fasting or skipping meals
- Certain foods: Red wine, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, MSG, citrus fruits, aged cheese and meat containing nitrites.
Chronic migraine caused by medication overuse
Overuse of symptomatic medication is considered one of the most important risk factors leading to chronic migraines. This can occur with different types of pain relief medication including paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. NSAIDs have been found to be protective against progression to chronic migraines if used in patients that have fewer than 10 days of headaches per month. Other medications that are more commonly implicated in the progression to Chronic migraine are:
- Opiates (e.g. Codeine in panadeine forte or Mersyndol or Endone) – Chronic migraines are much more likely to occur if used more than 8 days per month (particularly pronounced in men)
- Triptans (most common treatment of migraine) – Progression to chronic migraine is seen only in patients who already have a high frequency of migraine (10-14 days per month).
Get frequent migraines? Act now!
If you or a member of your family suffer from frequent migraines then we may be able to help. Simply contact us to book an appointment for assessment and treatment at one of our clinics (or if you have any questions).
