About Menstrual Migraines
What Is A Menstrual Migraine?
Predominantly a condition affecting women. These migraines usually come on, just before or during a menstrual cycle and/or during ovulation. These can present as a typical tension-type headache but can also present as traditional migraine with one-sided severe pulsating head pain.
During a women’s cycle at day 1, there is a large drop in oestrogen levels which in turn leads to a drop in serotonin levels in the brain. This drop in serotonin levels is said to be the trigger for menstrual migraine.
Menstrual Migraine Diagnosis
How Do We Diagnose A Menstrual Migraine?
There is a debate whether menstrual migraine is a separate migraine-type or whether hormonal change is just a trigger. Nevertheless, menstrual migraines arise at -2 to +3 days of menstruation and occur at least 2 out of every 3 cycles. Pure menstrual migraines only occur during a cycle while menstrual related-migraine happen during menstruation and additionally at other times of the cycle. Clinical experience has shown that ovulation will quite often trigger an episode which is milder and shorter in duration.
Menstrual Migraine Symptoms
Head pain
Moderate to severe throbbing or pulsating-like pain
Usually lasting 3 days
Nausea and vomiting
Increased Sensitivity
Increased sensitivity to light, sound and smell
Menstrual Migraine – Frequently Asked Questions
What is a menstrual migraine?
A menstrual migraine is a type of migraine that occurs in connection with a woman’s menstrual cycle, typically due to hormonal changes, particularly the drop in oestrogen levels. These migraines can occur with or without aura and are classified based on their timing and the presence of aura.
What causes menstrual migraines?
Menstrual migraines are primarily triggered by the natural drop in oestrogen levels that occurs just before menstruation. This hormonal fluctuation can lead to migraines. Other factors, such as stress, changes in sleep patterns, or dietary habits, can also play a role.
Can menstrual migraine be treated?
Treatment for menstrual migraines often includes medications that target nerve sensitivity in the brainstem, such as triptans, CGRP injections, or Botox. Since hormonal changes are hard to control, another effective approach is to desensitize the brainstem, making it less reactive to these hormonal triggers.
The Watson Headache® Approach, offers a unique hands-on technique that addresses overstimulation of the brainstem caused by issues in the upper neck.
What can I do to relieve menstrual migraines?
To relieve menstrual migraines, you can take pain-relief medications at the onset of symptoms, The Watson Headache® Approach which is a specific manual technique to treat cervical spine dysfunctions, which helps reduce nervous system sensitisation and alleviate migraine symptoms. Additionally, potentially reducing the need for medications over time and allowing for better self-management of the condition.
What do menstrual migraines affect?
Menstrual migraines can affect daily activities, work, and social interactions due to the pain and associated symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. These migraines can be debilitating, requiring rest and possibly time off from regular activities.
Can menstrual migraine be serious?
While typically not life-threatening, menstrual migraines can be very painful and disruptive. If having migraine around your cycle is unusual and you are concerned then it’s important to seek medical evaluation to rule out other possibilities.
How often do menstrual migraines occur?
Yes, menstrual migraines are common among women who experience migraines. Approximately 50% of female report menstrual-related migraines, and around 10-20% experience migraines exclusively related to their menstrual cycle.
Can menstrual migraine become a more serious problem?
Menstrual migraines can lead to chronic migraines if they become frequent and poorly managed. This is a condition where migraines occur on 15 or more days per month.
Are menstrual migraines common?
Yes, menstrual migraines are common among women who experience migraines. Approximately 50% of female report menstrual-related migraines, and around 10-20% experience migraines exclusively related to their menstrual cycle.
How long can menstrual migraine last?
A menstrual migraine can last from several hours to up to three days. The duration varies depending on the individual and the treatment. In some cases, symptoms may linger longer if not managed effectively.
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