Migraines. A word that is too commonly used to describe a bad headache. But for those who do suffer migraines, the word conjures up the feeling of debilitating pain and days of being unable to function. With migraines being the third most common illness in the world, chances are that you or someone you know suffers from migraine attacks.
But what are migraines, what causes them and why do they happen? Despite how prevalent migraines are, it is still unclear what definitively causes migraines. There is a growing body of research that is finding there is a genetic component to migraines, and that each migraine sufferer has their own specific migraine triggers. Those triggers may be a combination of things from food, lights, hormones, and those triggers may change over time. Some migraines come from the over-use of certain medications, even those designed to treat migraines. It is also important to note, that none of the current medications prescribed for migraines, were developed to treat or cure migraines, they just happen to alleviate some of the symptoms.
With so many compounding factors that cause or trigger migraines, treatment can be confusing to navigate. Can migraines be treated and eliminated in a manner that not only stops one in its tracks but prevents future migraine attacks from happening altogether? The answer is yes, with regular neurofeedback training.
Neurofeedback is a powerful tool for treating, preventing and eliminating migraines by training the brain and central nervous system to operate harmoniously. Regulating the brain improves communication with the hormonal output system, keeps the central nervous system in check and eliminates migraines.
What is a Migraine?
Migraines are intense headaches that may be accompanied by any of the following:
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light/sound
- Sensitivity to smells
- Changes in vision
Individuals with migraines have a more sensitive nervous system. In such individuals, the nerve cells of the brain are more easily triggered into abnormal activity. This activity spreads throughout the brain. Various functions and sensory modalities, such as vision, balance, muscle coordination and speech are temporarily disturbed. These disturbances trigger the symptoms that precede a migraine.
What Causes a Migraine?
Although there is no one cause for a migraine, doctors and researchers agree that there seems to be an underlying central nervous system disorder.
A migraine occurs when the 5th cranial nerve is stimulated and sends pain impulses to the eyes, scalp, forehead, mouth, and jaw. When the nerve is stimulated, the blood vessels of the brain become inflamed – which leads to a throbbing headache, nausea, and sensitivity to light.
Why do Women tend to have more migraines?
The predominant female sex hormone, estrogen, appears to trigger migraines. The rising and dropping of estrogen levels throughout a woman’s cycle can trigger a migraine. Hormone production and release is regulated via a communication loop that starts in the brain, so an efficient brain and central nervous system is key.
How can Neurofeedback Help?
Neurofeedback can stop or ease a migraine while it is occurring, but more importantly, regular training can be a preventative measure. Regular training helps the central nervous system operate in a more efficient and regulated manner, which leads to the decrease in number and frequency of migraines. Often, migraines will be completely eliminated.
For migraines with a hormonal trigger, neurofeedback allows the brain and the hormonal control center (HPA Axis) to communicate more effectively and operate more efficiently.
Contact us today for more information or to set up a consultation