As upper cervical chiropractors in Graham, Washington, we have been too familiar with every facet of migraines. Migraines are a brain condition known to cause recurring and severe head pain. The headache often ranges from moderate to severe.
A study showed migraines afflict at least 1 in 6 Americans. Migraines have been reported as far back as 1500 BCE. Although an age-old disorder, it still causes people to suffer from debilitating symptoms.
According to the Migraine Research Foundation, migraines often develop during adolescence and get worse in middle age. More women have it, but they become less common after menopause.
Migraine Symptoms
- Pulsating or throbbing often on one side of the head
- Pain that worsens with exertion
- An attack that lasts between 2 to 72 hours
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to sound, light, or odor
- An aura or a visual disturbance that occurs before the headache
People Who Are at Risk for Migraines
- Boys (before puberty)
- Girls (after puberty)
- Women due to their unsteady hormonal levels
- Pregnant women
- People with one or both parents that have migraines
- People with misalignment in the bones of the upper cervical spine
The 4 Migraine Phases
Migraine attacks frequently progress through four stages. However, the four phases are not always present in every episode of migraines. Let’s break down each stage which explains what happens before, during, and after a migraine episode.
1. Prodrome Phase
This is the phase before the migraine headache occurs. A study found that about 60% of migraineurs experience premonitory or prodromal symptoms. These symptoms serve as a warning sign of an impending headache. They may strike anywhere from two hours to two days before a migraine. An aura may or may not be present.
Symptoms of Prodrome Phase
- Cravings for certain food
- Moodiness
- Sensitivity to noise or odors
- Extreme elation or depression
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Stiff neck muscles
2. Aura Phase
An aura is any visual, sensory, or motor disturbances. Many migraine patients experience them at this stage. They may slowly ensue over a couple of minutes and last around an hour before the migraine headache.
Visual Aura
- Begins near the center of vision and then scatters
- Seeing flickering lights in part of the visual field
- Often black and white but some people also report seeing rainbows
- Zigzag lines showing to the side of vision that look similar to walls of a castle
- Blurry vision or temporary loss of vision
Sensory Aura
- Pins and needles feeling that begins in the hands and radiates to the nose or mouth
- Numbness that settles after the tingling sensation subsides
- Auditory hallucinations or delusions
- Weakness and motor problems
- Speech or language problems
- Spinning sensation
3. Headache Phase
The head pain often affects only one side (unilateral) with an intensity that ranges between moderate to severe. But in some cases, patients feel the pain in both sides of the head, and it accompanies neck pain. Bilateral headache is more common in people who experience migraines without an aura. The headache may get worse after strenuous physical activity.
Symptoms of Headache Phase
- Irritability
- Sensitivity to odors, lights, and sounds
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
4. Postdrome Phase
This stage occurs after a severe headache. Many patients share feeling “hung over” as the symptoms they deal with can mimic the morning after you had a long night of drinking. Some patients surprisingly feel very refreshed, while most patients suffer from sickness and depression.
Symptoms of Postdrome Phase:
- Mood changes
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Cognitive problems
- Gastrointestinal issues
Medications for Migraine Relief
A frequently utilized care for migraines is medication. Doctors often prescribe patients over-the-counter drugs pain relievers like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Ibuprofen. They may also recommend anti-nausea medications. If the pain and nausea do not go away, they may suggest stronger drugs such as triptans or ergotamines combined with caffeine.
Other medications that doctors may prescribe are valproate, topiramate, and metoprolol. While these medications provide some temporary relief for migraine pain, attacks would continue to persist if you do not address the root cause of your migraines.
Upper Cervical Chiropractic for Migraines
In many cases but often undiscovered, the underlying cause of migraines is a misalignment in the bones of the upper cervical spine. We are talking specifically of the atlas (C1) and axis (C2) vertebrae. Misalignment occurs either by accident or major trauma. A blow to the neck or head can misalign any of these delicate bones.
Misalignment in the Upper Cervical Spine Can Cause Migraines
Misaligned bones in the neck (upper cervical spine) can put stress on the brainstem, as they are within the same structure. When this happens, the brainstem can send faulty signals to the brain about oxygen supply and pain in the body. This can lead to migraines. Moreover, the nerves and blood vessels in the neck may suffer as well, also causing migraines.
Here at Advanced Spinal Care in Graham, Washington, we aid in our patients’ recovery from migraines through gentle adjustments of the bones of the upper cervical spine. This natural approach helps the bones realign into their correct positions. Migraine patients can enjoy positive outcomes once the corrections have been successful. If you are seeking upper cervical chiropractors in Graham, Washington to resolve your migraines or other chronic conditions, feel free to schedule a consultation with us to begin your upper cervical care.