Top Migraine Risk Factors and the Natural Way to Manage It
Migraine is the most common form of primary headache and affects about 30 million Americans. Unfortunately, it’s estimated that nearly half of them don’t seek treatment. This neurological disorder that can be triggered by certain foods and environmental factors, such as stress and physical exertion.
If you are experiencing migraine, it is important to know the specific risk factors that led you to acquire it. It will also tell you the likelihood of recurrences and the most appropriate remedy you can try to address and manage it effectively (none other than Upper Cervical Care in Ogden). Lucky for you, this article will cover all of that, so stick around!
Migraine Facts
#1. There are many different types of migraines, but they all fall into one of two categories: episodic or chronic.
#2. Migraine pain severity ranges from mild to severe and may last anywhere between four hours and three days.
#3. The symptoms often include nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light or sound—and sometimes even all three of these at once!
#4. Although migraines are a neurological disorder, they can be triggered by physical and emotional factors.
#5. Severe migraines can last up to 15 days in one go.
Migraine Triggers
The most common migraine triggers include the following:
- Food allergies or sensitivities
- Lack of sleep or interrupted sleep patterns
- Alcohol consumption (especially wine)
- Gluten intolerance (celiac disease)
- Stressful situations, such as financial difficulties or relationship problems
Migraine Risk Factors
Certain factors of one’s life affect and increase a person’s chance of acquiring this excruciating headache. Unfortunately, most are beyond anyone’s control, so it's important to be aware and know them to have a better fighting chance against migraine. Here are some of them:
#1. Genetics
Genetics is the most common cause of migraine. If you are genetically predisposed to migraines, you may experience them more frequently and with greater severity than those without. Although genetics is not the only cause of migraine, it does play a major role in who will get one and how often they occur. This is why some people are affected more than others by their genes’ influence on their migraines.
#2. Gender
Migraine is more usual in women than men, and there are several reasons why that may be the case. Migraines tend to start around puberty and increase in frequency right before or during menstrual cycles for many women; meaning, if you’re having a migraine, it could be related to your period. In general, women are more likely to suffer from headaches that aren’t strictly migraines.
#3. Age
Typically, migraines start around puberty or adolescence and continue into adulthood until age 50+. The most common age range for migraines is 25-50 years old, but they can happen at any age!
#4. Injury and Physical Trauma
Physical trauma can cause migraines because of its great potential for spinal misalignment. For example, a car accident or a fall can lead to migraines because and very likely if it damages any nerve, muscle, or vertebrae in or around your upper cervical spine.
Natural Ways to Manage Migraine
If you have experienced frequent migraine episodes, there are several ways to manage it:
Controlling Vices
Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. Caffeine and nicotine are both stimulants that can trigger migraine headaches. Alcohol is also a culprit because it interferes with sleep patterns and triggers dehydration.
Eating a Balanced Diet
Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Studies show that people who eat more potassium-rich foods have lower rates of headaches than those who do not consume these foods regularly. Also, make sure to include magnesium-rich foods such as nuts or seeds in your diet since magnesium helps to relax blood vessels, so they don’t constrict as easily when you get stressed out, which can lead to migraines more quickly than if those vessels were relaxed instead of constricted!
Getting Regular Exercise
Exercise increases the flow of oxygen-rich blood throughout your body which makes it easier for your brain cells to get what they need when there's not enough oxygen present (like during exercise). It also helps release endorphins - chemicals made by our brains that make us feel good! The stronger muscles are also less likely to become tired while working out, so getting some exercise won't cause too much stress on them either! You might notice this effect immediately after exercising but it may take several weeks before seeing long-term benefits such as reduced frequency/duration of headaches overall due
Having Regular Upper Cervical Care
Upper cervical care is a gentle approach to the spine that has been shown to help with migraines. It’s safe, effective, and can be used by anyone, no matter their age.
It's important to note that upper cervical care involves realigning the nervous system, not just treating symptoms. When the spinal cord is misaligned, it can cause compression on nerves in your head and neck area, leading to migraines or other types of pain. Upper cervical care helps restore proper alignment by working with your body's natural ability to heal itself from within.
Want Lasting Migraine Relief? Get Quality Upper Cervical Care in Ogden
If you are experiencing migraines and want to get them under control, try the most effective Upper Cervical Care in Ogden at Atlas Clinic. We can help identify the cause of your headaches so that we can create an effective treatment plan for you. Contact us now and schedule an appointment!
Dr. Chris Bunn is a chiropractor who specializes in Upper Cervical Chiropractic. He will help you to find the root cause of your migraine, which allows him to help you manage your migraine and promote optimal health. Upper Cervical Care in Ogden is safe, holistic, and effective, not just with migraines but many other conditions that affect one’s spine. You can reach us at (801) 689-2592.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Bunn, call our Ogden office at 801-689-2592. You can also click the button below.
If you are outside of the local area, you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.