Understanding Migraines: Causes, Triggers & Potential Explanations

Scientists and doctors are not sure why some people get migraines and some don't, but there are many different theories, from hereditary factors to a brain stem malfunction. Your doctor will be able to tell by asking you questions if you are suffering from a migraine.

Hereditary

• Migraines are hereditary; they tend to run in families. Scientist have recently discovered a gene that predisposes people to developing migraines due to abnormalities in certain areas of the brain.

Triggers

• Some things can trigger migraines, such as lack of sleep, fatigue, diet, caffeine, alcohol, hormonal changes, weather changes, anxiety and stress.

Symptoms

• Some symptoms of migraines are sensitivity to light and/or noise, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and debilitating pain either on one side or both sides of the head.

Migraine Sufferers

• Women get migraines three times more often than men. Migraines can affect children, although they are more likely to be experienced by those who are 15 to 50 years of age.

Prevention/Solution

• Some ways of preventing migraines are monitoring and regulating your diet, getting plenty of rest, exercising regularly, and managing stress. Nicotine, alcohol, caffeine and MSG should be avoided as they often trigger migraines.