Chronic headaches are a major health problem that bothers most people today. But there is a big difference between a common headache and a migraine. A common headache goes away with rest or drinking tea. But a migraine is a severe throbbing pain that occurs on only one side of the head. Along with this, vomiting, severe discomfort to light and sound are also common. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind migraines and headaches:
Difference in neurotransmitters in the brain (Serotonin & Trigeminovascular System): The main scientific reason for migraines is a sudden decrease in the level of chemicals like serotonin in the brain. When serotonin decreases, the ‘trigeminal’ nerves in the brain are stimulated and they release chemicals that cause inflammation into the blood vessels. This causes the blood vessels in the brain to dilate, causing severe throbbing migraine pain.
Severe stress and insomnia: The main cause of tension headaches is severe stress. When stress increases, the muscles in the head and neck tighten severely (muscle tension). Also, not sleeping at the right time and staying up late can affect the natural relaxation of the brain and cause migraines to occur suddenly (migraine trigger).
Hormonal Fluctuations: Migraines are more common in women than men. This is due to fluctuations in the level of the hormone estrogen in women’s bodies. A sudden drop in estrogen levels during the days before menstruation (Menstrual Migraine), at the beginning of pregnancy, and during menopause can cause severe headaches.
Certain foods and dehydration: Dehydration can cause brain cells to shrink and cause headaches. It can also cause migraine headaches in people who consume too much caffeine (tea, coffee), chocolate, aged cheese, Ajinomoto (MSD) added to Chinese foods, and artificial sweeteners.
Environmental changes and excessive light (Sensory Overload): Intense sunlight, excessive blue light from a computer or mobile screen, loud noises, strong perfume smells, and sudden changes in weather are all factors that overstimulate the nerves in the brain and cause headaches.
