Migraines can be debilitating due to their moderate to severe intensity. If you experience a migraine, you may be out of action for at least a couple of hours or even up to three days! More than likely, you will put yourself in a dark room and try to sleep it off. As migraine significantly affects our day-to-day life, it is important to understand what causes migraines.
Understanding the cause of migraine not only helps us feel reassured that it is ‘nothing sinister’ but also allows us to better treat and manage the condition.
Physiologically, the cause of the migraine is complex – there is no black and white answer. What is thought to happen is a sensitivity issue in the neural pathways within our brain. This causes dilation in blood vessels, excitation of numerous neural pathways and fluctuation of hormonal levels such as serotonin and dopamine levels.
So we know, to some degree, what is happening physiologically. Now we need to ask what causes those cascades of physiological changes leading to a migraine attack. As Sun Tzu says, “If you know your enemy and yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles.” When we do not know, that is when we worry and fear.
Knowing your Triggers
There can be various triggers that cause your migraine. Some may be quite obvious and definite. That is, they will always, without fail, bring on a migraine episode. Other triggers may not be so definite.
Generally, various triggers will build up, causing you to reach your migraine threshold, causing a migraine to occur. Knowing your triggers/causes of migraines will help you to win your battle.
Keeping a headache diary helps identify these triggers. To learn to keep a headache diary, read more on: Should I keep a headache diary?
Common triggers/ causes of migraines
The following list are common things that trigger migraine espisodes
- The upper neck
- Stress
- Heightened emotions
- Diet
- Alcohol, commonly wine
- Hormones
- Lack of sleep
- Bright or flashing lights
- Loud noises
- Certain scents
- Physical exertion
Reflect on the above common causes of migraines and apply this knowledge to make changes to your lifestyle.
For more detailed information, read our blog on Understanding Triggers.
How to Prevent or Reduce Your Migraines may also be helpful
Being equipped with knowledge, will help you to feel empowered and guided in your migraine journey.
Book A Migraine/Headache Assessment
Book online or give us a call on 1300MyHeadache (1300 694 323) to organise an assessment with Sydney Headache & Migraine Centre and learn more about what causes your migraines and how we can help treat them.
