Migraine Makeover!

Dr. Michael Wald, DC, Board Certified Nutritionist MS

What is a Migraine Headache?

A migraine headache is a type of headache characterized by moderate to severe pain, typically affecting one side of the head. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. 

Migraines can last from a few hours to several days, and they can significantly impact a person’s daily activities and overall quality of life.

Migraines are believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. 

Neurotransmitter imbalances, inflammation, and changes in the brainstem and its surrounding structures are thought to play a role in their development. Triggers for migraines can vary from person to person, and they may include stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, alcohol, and lack of sleep.

Incidence in Young Adults, Men, and Women

Migraines can affect people of all ages, but they are more common in young adults and women. According to the Migraine Research Foundation, approximately 12% of the population experiences migraines, with 18% of women and 6% of men suffering from them. The incidence of migraines in young adults, particularly between the ages of 18 and 44, is higher than in other age groups.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of migraines can vary from person to person and between the sexes. However, there are some common symptoms experienced by many migraine sufferers. These include:

• Moderate to severe pain, usually on one side of the head
• Throbbing or pulsating pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and smell
• Visual disturbances, such as seeing spots or lines
• Temporary loss of vision
• Fatigue and difficulty concentrating

In some cases, migraines can also be preceded by an “aura,” which is a warning sign that a migraine is about to occur. Aura symptoms can include visual disturbances, tingling or numbness in the face or limbs, and difficulty speaking.

How Signs and Symptoms Might Differ Among Each Person and Between the Sexes

The signs and symptoms of migraines can differ among individuals and between the sexes. Some people may experience only mild discomfort, while others may be debilitated by the pain. 

The frequency and duration of migraines can also vary from person to person.

Women are more likely to experience migraines with aura and are also more likely to have hormonal migraines, which are triggered by changes in hormone levels, such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. 

Additionally, women may experience migraines with more severe symptoms, such as visual disturbances, and may have a higher rate of chronic migraines.

In contrast, men are more likely to experience migraines with a history of head injury or other traumatic brain injuries. 

Men are also more likely to experience migraines with aura and may have a higher rate of migraine-related symptoms, such as neck pain and muscle tenderness.

Causes of Migraine Headaches

Migraine headaches are a complex and multifactorial condition, and there are numerous potential causes that can trigger or contribute to the development of migraines. Here are 35 possible causes of migraine headaches:

1. Genetics: Family history of migraines can increase the likelihood of experiencing migraines.
2. Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen levels, particularly during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can trigger migraines in some individuals.
3. Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Changes in serotonin levels and other neurotransmitters can contribute to migraine attacks.
4. Triggers in Diet: Certain foods and drinks such as aged cheeses, processed meats, alcohol, and caffeine can act as triggers for migraines.
5. Stress: Emotional stress and anxiety can lead to the onset of migraines in susceptible individuals.
6. Sensory Stimuli: Bright lights, loud sounds, and strong smells can trigger migraines in some people.
7. Physical Exertion: Intense physical activity or exertion can lead to the development of migraines.
8. Weather Changes: Barometric pressure changes, high humidity, and extreme temperatures have been associated with triggering migraines.
9. Sleep Disturbances: Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns can be a contributing factor to migraines.
10. Medication Overuse: Overuse of certain medications, especially painkillers, can lead to medication-overuse headaches which resemble migraines.
11. Environmental Factors: Exposure to pollutants, smoke, or strong odors may trigger migraines in some individuals.
12. Allergies: Allergic reactions and sensitivities to certain substances can provoke migraines.
13. Hormonal Medications: Use of hormonal medications such as oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy may trigger migraines in some women.
14. Caffeine Withdrawal: Abrupt cessation of caffeine consumption can lead to withdrawal headaches, which may resemble migraines.
15. Jaw Clenching or Teeth Grinding: Bruxism and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction can contribute to migraine development.
16. Neck Pain or Posture Issues: Poor posture or neck tension can be associated with the onset of migraines.
17. Sinus Issues: Sinusitis or other sinus problems may trigger migraines in some individuals.
18. Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have been linked to an increased risk of migraines.
19. Dehydration: Inadequate hydration can be a precipitating factor for migraines in some people.
20. Gluten Sensitivity/Celiac Disease: Some individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease may experience migraines as a symptom.
21. Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain nutrients such as magnesium, riboflavin, and coenzyme Q10 have been associated with migraines.
22. Altered Sleep Patterns: Shift work or irregular sleep schedules may contribute to migraine development.
23. Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.
24. Excessive Noise Exposure: Prolonged exposure to loud noises may act as a trigger for some people with migraines.
25. Light Sensitivity (Photophobia): Sensitivity to light is a common symptom during migraine attacks and may also act as a trigger for some individuals.
26. Changes in Routine: Disruption of regular routines or schedules may provoke migraines in certain individuals.
27. Emotional Factors: Emotional changes such as excitement, shock, or depression can precipitate migraine attacks.
28. Inflammatory Conditions: Chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus may be associated with an increased risk of migraines.
29. Vascular Changes: Fluctuations in blood flow and vascular reactivity have been implicated in the pathophysiology of migraines.
30. Dental Issues: Dental problems such as malocclusion or dental abscesses may contribute to migraine development through referred pain mechanisms.
31. Endocrine Disorders: Disorders affecting the endocrine system, such as thyroid dysfunction, may influence migraine susceptibility.
32. Post-Traumatic Headaches: Headaches following head trauma or concussion may manifest as migrainous symptoms in some cases.
33. Drug Interactions/Withdrawal: Certain medications or their withdrawal effects can lead to the development of migraine-like headaches.
34. Psychological Factors: Psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may be associated with an increased risk of migraines.
35. Genetic Syndromes/Disorders: Certain genetic syndromes or disorders may predispose individuals to frequent or severe migraine attacks.

Testing for Migraine Causes

There are various tests and evaluations that healthcare professionals may use to detect and evaluate the potential causes of migraine headaches:

1. Family History Assessment: Gathering information about family history of migraine disorders helps identify potential genetic predispositions.
2. Hormonal Testing: Hormone level testing, especially for estrogen and progesterone, can help identify hormonal imbalances that might be contributing to menstrual-related migraines.
3. Neuroimaging Studies: MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans and CT (Computed Tomography) scans may be used to rule out structural abnormalities in the brain that could be causing headaches.
4. Food Diary Analysis: Keeping a detailed food diary and undergoing food sensitivity testing can help identify specific dietary triggers for migraine attacks.
5. Stress Assessment: Psychological evaluations and stress assessments help identify emotional triggers for migraine attacks.
6. Sensory Sensitivity Testing: Assessing sensitivity to light, sound, and smell through specialized tests helps identify sensory triggers for migraines.
7. Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination by a healthcare professional helps identify any physical factors that might be contributing to migraine development.
8. Sleep Studies: Polysomnography (sleep study) may be used to evaluate sleep patterns and identify any sleep disturbances that could be triggering migraines.
9. Medication Review: Reviewing current medications and assessing for medication overuse helps identify potential medication-related triggers for headaches.
10. Allergy Testing: Allergy tests help identify specific allergens that could be triggering allergic reactions leading to migraines.
11. Dental Evaluation: Dental examinations help identify any dental issues such as bruxism or TMJ dysfunction that might be contributing to headache symptoms.
12. Nutritional Assessment: Blood tests for nutrient levels help identify any deficiencies that could be contributing to migraine attacks.
13.  Endocrine Function Tests: Testing thyroid function and other endocrine parameters helps identify any endocrine disorders that might be influencing migraine susceptibility.

14 .Inflammatory Marker Testing: Blood tests for inflammatory markers help assess for underlying inflammatory conditions that could be linked to migraine development.

15 .Vascular Studies: Doppler ultrasound studies and other vascular imaging techniques help assess blood flow patterns that might be relevant to migraine pathophysiology.

16 .Psychological Evaluation: Psychological assessments help identify any underlying psychological factors that might be contributing to migraine attacks.

17 .Genetic Testing: In some cases, genetic testing may be used to identify specific genetic syndromes or mutations associated with an increased risk of developing migraines.

These are just some examples of the many tests and evaluations that healthcare professionals might use when investigating potential causes of migraine headaches.

Top 20 Nutritional Deficiencies That May Cause Migraines and How They Affect Migraine Suffers

1. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) Deficiency Vitamin B2 plays a crucial role in energy production, red blood cell formation, and maintaining the health of the nervous system. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to migraines due to its role in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is essential for cellular energy.
2. Vitamin B9 (Folate) Deficiency Folate is essential for the production of red and white blood cells and the synthesis of DNA. A deficiency can lead to an increased risk of migraines due to its role in homocysteine metabolism.
3. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) Deficiency Vitamin B12 is necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system and the production of red blood cells. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in the synthesis of myelin, the protective covering of nerve fibers.
4. Vitamin D Deficiency Vitamin D is essential for the regulation of calcium and phosphate levels in the body, which are crucial for the normal functioning of nerves and muscles. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in the regulation of neurotransmitters.
5. Magnesium Deficiency Magnesium is essential for the proper functioning of over 300 enzymes in the body, including those involved in nerve function and muscle relaxation. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in maintaining proper nerve function and preventing muscle spasms.
6. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) Deficiency CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that plays a vital role in energy production within cells. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in maintaining the health of the mitochondria, the powerhouses of cells.
7. Iron Deficiency (Anemia) Iron is essential for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in oxygen transport and the maintenance of proper brain function.
8. Zinc Deficiency Zinc is essential for a variety of biological processes, including immune function, protein synthesis, and cell division. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in the regulation of neurotransmitters and the maintenance of proper nerve function.
9. Copper Deficiency Copper is an essential trace element that plays a role in the production of red and white blood cells, as well as the synthesis of collagen and elastin. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in the production of neurotransmitters and the maintenance of proper nerve function.
10. Potassium Deficiency (Hypokalemia) Potassium is an essential electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in maintaining proper nerve function and preventing muscle spasms.
11. Sodium Deficiency (Hyponatremia) Sodium is an essential electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance and nerve function. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in maintaining proper nerve function and preventing muscle cramps.
12. Calcium Deficiency (Hypocalcemia) Calcium is essential for the proper functioning of nerves and muscles, as well as the maintenance of a healthy skeletal system. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in maintaining proper nerve function and preventing muscle spasms.
13. Omega-3 Fatty Acid Deficiency Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for the proper functioning of the brain and the maintenance of healthy nerve function. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in the regulation of inflammation and the maintenance of proper nerve function.
14. Glutamine Deficiency Glutamine is an amino acid that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the nervous system and supporting the immune system. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to its role in maintaining proper nerve function and preventing neurotransmitter imbalances.
15. Amino Acid Deficiencies (Essential Amino Acids) Essential amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and play a vital role in the proper functioning of the body. A deficiency can lead to migraines due to their role in maintaining proper nerve function and preventing neurotransmitter imbalances.
16. Dehydration Proper hydration is essential for maintaining the balance of electrolytes and the proper functioning of the nervous system. Dehydration can lead to migraines due to its role in maintaining proper nerve function and preventing muscle cramps.
17. High Homocysteine Levels Homocysteine is an amino acid that can become elevated due to a deficiency in B vitamins (B2, B6, B12, and folate). High homocysteine levels can lead to migraines due to its role in the regulation of neurotransmitters and the maintenance of proper nerve function.
18. Alcohol Consumption Alcohol can cause migraines due to its effects on the nervous system, dehydration, and the release of histamine. Moderation in alcohol consumption is essential for migraine sufferers.
19. Caffeine Withdrawal Caffeine is a stimulant that can cause migraines when consumed in large amounts or when suddenly withdrawn. Moderation and gradual reduction in caffeine intake can help prevent migraines.
20. Food Sensitivities and Allergies Certain foods can trigger migraines in some individuals due to food sensitivities or allergies. Identifying and avoiding these trigger foods can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.