As a migraine chiropractor near McKinney, TX, I’ve extensively studied migraines. As you may know, debilitating headaches are the main symptom of this condition that affects many people. In the United States alone, 39 million people suffer from migraines.
While the specific cause of migraines is not yet determined, it is considered a neurological condition. Apart from the pounding headaches, other migraine indicators include nausea and vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Some migraine sufferers experience numbness and a tingling sensation in the face, legs, and arms. Some of them endure episodes of dizziness and vertigo, where they feel the world around them spinning.
Migraine diagnoses are based on a patient’s history and symptoms. Other underlying causes should be ruled out, too.
There are two types of migraines: migraines with aura and migraines without. The only difference is that with the former, the patient also experiences visual disturbances, making the ordeal more difficult.
This brief overview of migraines should give you a better understanding of this condition. And in this article, I will share information about the four stages of migraines, the connection between migraines and neck problems, and a form of natural relief.
After reading this, you should hopefully be more informed about migraines and how to deal with them.
The Four Stages of Migraines
There are four stages of migraines. The first one is the prodrome stage, which happens a day or two before an attack. At this point, patients may suffer from neck stiffness, fatigue, hyperactivity, irritability, and low energy.
Other sufferers may experience odd food cravings and frequent yawning. Some cases involve bouts with mild depression.
The second stage is the aura stage. As I’ve mentioned earlier, people in this stage of their migraine episode experience visual disturbances like seeing flashing lights and sparkles. Others go through short periods of temporary blindness.
There is also that feeling of a prickly, tingling sensation in the arms, legs, or face. Speech problems may also manifest during this second phase.
The third stage is when the head pain happens. At this time, the individual experiences a debilitating headache, which lasts from a few hours to a few days.
The fourth and final stage is called the postdrome stage. Mood changes may occur wherein the person may feel energized at one point, then fatigued at another. But the overall feeling described by patients is compared to the hangover after a night of drinking.
A dull headache may still persist during this stage. Overall, the length of these stages will vary from one individual to another.
The Migraine Pain
Pain levels between migraine sufferers vary. But overall, the pain associated with this condition is often throbbing.
For some people, the dull headache is steady, beginning from mild levels. It then increases slowly to moderate and severe pain, leaving them unable to carry out routine tasks.
Migraine pain may be as short as four hours, but if left without medical attention, it may last up to 72 hours.
Nausea and Migraine Attacks
A considerable portion of migraine sufferers also experience nausea and vomiting. The nausea and vomiting usually happen about an hour before an attack occurs.
Some people use acupuncture as a form of relief for migraine-related nausea. Previous studies show how this process can ease the nausea episodes in as short as half an hour. Improvement usually comes within the next four hours.
The Connection Between Migraines and the Neck
According to a study featured on the American Journal of Managed Care (AJMC) in 2018, neck pain is connected to migraines. Specifically, it pointed out that neck pain is one of the symptoms and not a trigger.
Some of you reading this may find it odd, but there is a connection between migraines and neck issues. We will get into that more in the next section of this article.
The Underlying Cause of Migraines
The connection between migraines and neck pain lies at the C1 and C2 vertebrae. These two bones are found in the topmost part of the neck and are responsible for head mobility. They also protect the brainstem from damage.
And because of their mobile nature, both bones are more susceptible to misalignment. Once misalignment occurs, the brainstem endures unnecessary pressure.
This pressure causes the sending of mixed signals to and from the brain. It also can hinder the flow of blood and cerebrospinal fluid going to and from the brain. And when these things happen, migraines can develop.
An Effective Form of Natural Relief
One of the most underrated forms of relief for migraines is upper cervical chiropractic care. It involves gentle yet precise techniques to bring both the C1 and C2 vertebrae back into alignment.
This is a method I employ here in my clinic at Crowder Specific Chiropractic. I make sure to stay away from the popping and cracking techniques that many traditional chiropractors use. I prefer a more non-intrusive form of care for my patients.
Once the bones are back in their correct positions, the body begins to self-heal. From that point on, migraine episodes are often less severe and less frequent, until they stop manifesting altogether. If you happen to be in search of a migraine chiropractor near McKinney, TX, you now know where to go. Call (972) 562-0674 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.