Migraine Q & A

What are the signs of a migraine?

Migraines are a neurological condition that causes extreme headache pain accompanied by:

• Sensitivity to light, sound, and smell

• Intense, one-sided throbbing pain

• Pain lasting four to 72 hours

• Pain or numbness in your face or jaw

• Numbness and tingling in your hands

Migraines differ from other types of headaches due to their intensity and duration. Often, very painful headaches can be confused for migraines. Getting a proper diagnosis and treatment at LIFEstrength Health Center can reduce the frequency and severity of both headaches and migraines.

What causes migraines?

The exact cause of migraines is unknown, though researchers believe there is a malfunction in the pain pathways in the brainstem that cause the intense pain of migraines. Migraines have common triggers, including:

• Certain foods, including dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and MSG

• Dehydration

• Changes in weather, especially air pressure

• Lack of sleep or an irregular sleep schedule

• Exposure to cigarette smoke or other noxious chemicals

• Hormonal changes

The practitioners at LIFEstrength can help you identify your triggers and develop strategies to eliminate harmful foods or lifestyle activities. Certain activities can also reduce your migraine symptoms, including exercise, following a regular sleep schedule, and managing stress.

What other factors can cause headaches?

Besides the common triggers for migraines, other factors that can cause headaches include:

• Poor posture, including “text neck”

• Auto accidents and whiplash

• Muscle tension

• Low blood sugar or dehydration

• Caffeine withdrawal

• Intersegmental dysfunction

• Decreased range of motion of the neck

The LIFEstrength team screens for these factors, either through a questionnaire, your medical history, or a physical exam. In some cases, the practitioners may also recommend completing functional lab testing to determine if food allergies or inflammation are related to your headaches or migraines.

How are headaches and migraines treated?

Treatment for headaches and migraines depends on the cause of your symptoms. In some cases, chiropractic care, including spinal manipulation, soft tissue work, stretching, and specialized exercises, may be used to improve your range of motion, reduce muscle tension, and correct any postural issues.

Reducing headache and migraine triggers is another important step in your care. In addition to identifying any known or obvious triggers, the LIFEstrength practitioners can also use functional lab work to identify triggers or inflammation causing your headaches or migraines. Based on your lab work, you may need to change some of your dietary habits or incorporate supplements into your diet.

Get help for migraines and headaches from the chiropractic and functional medicine specialists at LIFEstrength Health Center. Reach out by calling the office at 239-774-5433 or scheduling an appointment through email at Staff@LIFEstrengthHealthCenter.com.