If you suffer from migraines, the root cause often involves abnormal brain activity. This abnormal activity is frequently related to changes in cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) flow and blood circulation in surrounding tissues.
A common reason for these changes is a misalignment in the upper neck. When the upper neck is misaligned, it can disrupt the normal flow of fluids to, from, and through the brain. While external triggers can set off migraines, addressing the underlying cause is essential for long-term relief.
External Factors That Can Trigger Migraines
- Caffeine withdrawal
- Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle
- Hormonal changes from birth control
- Altered sleep patterns
- Alcohol
- Physical stress or intense exercise
- Loud noises or bright lights
- Missed meals
- Odors or perfumes
- First- or second-hand smoke
- Stress or anxiety
Food Triggers for Migraines
- Baked goods
- Chocolate
- Dairy products
- Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
- Tyramine-rich foods (red wine, aged cheese, smoked fish, chicken liver, figs, certain beans)
- Certain fruits (avocado, citrus, bananas)
- Meats with nitrates (bacon, hot dogs, salami, cured meats)
- Onions
- Peanuts, other nuts, and seeds
- Processed, fermented, pickled, or marinated foods
Keeping a Migraine Journal
Many factors can contribute to these debilitating headaches, but some are within your control. Keeping a journal of foods, activities, and other potential triggers is an excellent first step in identifying patterns.
While tracking triggers, it’s crucial to seek the care of a Board Certified NUCCA Doctor. They can examine the upper neck vertebrae to determine if a misalignment—often caused by a head or neck injury—is contributing to your migraines.
Minimizing triggers can help, but addressing the underlying cause is the most effective way to achieve long-term relief.
For more information, visit www.nuccawashington.com.
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Dr. Craig Lapenski at Advanced Spinal Care, in Graham, Washington is one of 27 Board Certified NUCCA Doctors worldwide. His clinic serves the highest quality upper cervical care in the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Lapenski also serves a number of patients who are out of state including Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, New York, and more! He is uniquely trained to correct problems in the upper cervical spine (upper neck). This vital area is intimately connected to the central nervous system and problems in this area have been shown to be an underlying cause of a variety of different health problems, including migraines, headaches, fibromyalgia, vertigo, neck pain, back pain, and more. More information can be found on our website at https://www.nuccawashington.com/