According to the American Migraine Association, migraines affect more than 36 million Americans each year — that’s nearly 12 percent of the population.
Anyone who’s ever had a migraine can tell you that they’re easy to identify — vision loss, throbbing, stiff neck, sensitivity to light and sound, and dizziness are just a few of the most commonly experienced symptoms. However, what’s not as easy to do is identify the cause of them.
Possible Causes of a Migraine
Dehydration.
Whether because you were out in the sun all day or because a hectic day made it hard to find time for water, it’s possible your migraine is being caused by dehydration. Before reaching for the ibuprofen, try grabbing a few glasses of water.
Not sure if it’s a dehydration headache? Look for other symptoms. Dehydration headaches tend to also be coupled with dry mouth, fatigue, and nausea.
The start of a woman’s menstrual cycle.
Days before women get their period, their estrogen levels drop. This, along with many other changes in hormone levels, can contribute to headaches and migraines. If you’re a woman who exclusively gets migraines before the start of your period, it’s especially important to track your menstrual cycle. Practicing acupuncture, relaxation methods, and trigger point therapy before or during a migraine can help ease your discomfort.
Poor diet.
People who eat a diet high in sugar are more likely to suffer from hypoglycemia, a medical condition in which a person has abnormally low glucose (blood sugar) levels. The condition can either cause or exacerbate headaches and migraines.
A diet high in alcohol or caffeine consumption was also found to increase a person’s number of migraines per year.
Lack of exercise.
Physical inactivity is also strongly related to the number of migraines a person suffers from as well as the intensity of migraines. Moderate levels of exercise a few times a week improves blood flow to the brain and can help prevent or alleviate migraines to some degree.
Too much exercise.
On the other hand, exercising too much can also give you an, appropriately-named, exercise headache. However, if you’re a seasoned trainer or workout regularly, you shouldn’t be too concerned. Typically, workout headaches occur in people who recently started working out and have pushed themselves too hard.
Emotional triggers.
Triggers, such as stress, anxiety, fear, depression, shock, and excitement can also cause headaches and migraines. In addition to physical health, make time for mental health as well.
Call us at (661) 964-4311 if you’re suffering from headaches or migraines. Valencia Headache and Sleep Treatment Center can help you to take back your life for good!