Different types of migraines

There are many things that can trigger a migraine. Learn about the causes of migraines and effective, natural ways to relieve the pain.

Migraines



Over 25 million Americans suffer from migraines. The most common symptoms include headache, nausea, sensitivity to light, smell and sound. Movement makes the migraine worse. One in ten sufferers experience aura with migraines. These are known as classic migraines. 30 minutes before the migraine starts, the person experiences visual sensory illusions such as shimmering or jagged bands of light around the edge of objects. These illusions are called aura.

migraine headaches

Some people also experience rebound migraines, which occur when pain medications are overused and the body becomes resistant to the drugs. This can lead to more intense migraine symptoms in the future.

Less prevalent types of migraines include ocular migraines, where blood vessels in the eyes spasm causing the person to see lights in the peripheral vision. Ophthalmoplegic migraines are similar to ocular migraines, with additional symptoms including pain, vomiting and the drooping of eyelids. Carotidynia is sometimes referred to as a facial migraine. The sufferer experiences pain in the jaw and  neck. Status migraines can last for days and may require hospitalization for the extreme pain. Children may experience migraines that involve the basilar artery in the brain. Symptoms include vertigo, pain and speech, vision and coordination problems.  

Video: Migraines Overview

What causes migraines?

The exact cause of migraines is unknown. They are associated with changes in the blood vessels in the brain, but it's unclear why or how this happens. They are often hereditary. About 80% of migraine sufferers have family members who also get migraines. In women, migraines are sometimes triggered by hormonal changes. Often, women experience their first migraine the year they reach puberty. Other triggers for migraines include stress, lack of sleep, extreme emotions, changes in climatic conditions and even certain foods.

Natural pain relief

The most common way to treat migraines is with strong painkillers. The effectiveness of these drugs varies from person to person. In some cases, the side effects are worse than the pain. If you suffer from migraines, consider a more natural remedy.

  • Exercise: Exercise releases endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. In addition to generally being good for you, exercise has been shown to reduce the frequency of migraines. Almost any form of exercise will have a positive impact on your health, from running to yoga to team sports.

  • Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium):  Feverfew is an herb that has been used for centuries to treat headaches. Studies have shown it to be effective at preventing migraines. One study showed a significant decrease in the frequency of migraines in feverfew users, compared to those who got the placebo. Other studies, however, have been less conclusive.

  • Progressive Muscle Relaxation:  Stress and tension are common triggers of migraines. Using progressive muscle relaxation, you can release the tension from any body part. Turn off the lights and breathe slowly. Mentally locate the origin of the pain and consciously relax that area. With practice, it's possible to greatly reduce the severity of migraines using this technique.

  • 5-HTP:  5HTP is a naturally-occurring compound that our bodies use to make the neurotransmitter serotonin and the hormone melatonin. The same compound is sold in supplement form, made from an African plant. With regular use, it has been shown to reduce the frequency, duration and severity of migraines.

  • Magnesium:  The mineral magnesium is found in many everyday foods including nuts, seeds and leafy green vegetables. Among other things, it helps regulate blood pressure, heart rhythm and nerve function. Several studies have suggested that magnesium can reduce the severity and frequency of migraines.

  • Butterbur (Petasites hybridus):  Butterbur is another herb. It's part of the ragweed plant family. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments including coughs, stomach cramps, asthma and migraines. Studies have suggested that butterbur can prevent migraines. The most common side effects include mild digestive discomfort, fatigue and nausea.

  • Acupuncture:  Acupuncture originated in China over 5,000 years ago. It's been used to treat almost every type of illness, from infertility to tennis elbow. During a typical session, the acupuncturist inserts 6-12 tiny needles into very precise points on the body. This is supposed to restore the balance of qi, a life energy force. The procedure is painless. Anecdotal evidence suggests that acupuncture can be effective at treating migraines. Some people have reported that acupuncture cured them of migraines forever.

Video: Acupuncture & Migraines



  • Biofeedback:  With biofeedback, the person learns to control vital body functions that normally are not under conscious control, such as breathing, muscle tension, blood pressure and heart rate. In the case of migraines, the individual learns to affect the levels of serotonin and adrenalin, which contract blood vessels. The level of these hormones can be lowered by thinking relaxing thoughts. By spotting the early signs of a migraine, the individual can train themselves to get into the right state of mind to consciously make the body reduce the severity of the migraine.