If you are a regular migraine sufferer, you might be aware of the telltale signs that an attack is right around the corner.  If your head pain come less frequently, then you may not realize that there are a series of events that may happen in the hours, or sometimes even days, leading up to a migraine episode.  Learning to recognize these signs, and perhaps what might be triggering them, can be helpful in defending yourself against future attacks:

1. Repetitive yawning
2. Nausea
3. Light sensitivity (photophobia)
4. Sound sensitivity (phonophobia)
5. Difficulty with speaking
6. Concentration problems
7. Food cravings
8. Stiff neck
9. Upset stomach
10. Depression

All of these potential symptoms make up what’s called the prodrome phase of a migraine.  The prodrome phase can also be referred to as the preheadache or premonitory phase – a sign of what is to come.  It is estimated that about 30 to 40% of sufferers experience the prodrome phase, but it is also believed that this estimate is on the low side.

The Search for Lasting Migraine Relief

There is still some level of mystery surrounding the exact mechanism by which migraines occur.  In some research, migraines are considered a neurological headache and in others a vascular condition.  Regardless of a migraine’s origins, getting relief is often the number one priority for sufferers.  Most of the treatment options available are symptom-based, meaning that they are designed to relieve certain aspects of a migraine episode, such as the headache or nausea.

For people seeking out an approach that is natural, effective, and meant to last, upper cervical chiropractic care might be a great option.  Upper cervical chiropractic care influences both the nervous system and the vascular system by finding areas of spinal misalignment that are impeding the body’s ability to function optimally.  

More specifically we look at the atlas vertebra, the uppermost one in the neck, because of its ability to affect the brainstem – a critical part of our central nervous system.  At Crowder Specific Chiropractic, we see many people’s reduce in frequency or severity, or even resolve completely when this stress on the nervous system is removed with a gentle and precise atlas adjustment.  If you’re tired of dealing with head pain and feel like you’ve tried everything else, let us see if we can help you!

References:

http://www.achenet.org/resources/migraine_attack_the_four_phases/

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Crowder, call our McKinney office at 972-449-5845. You can also click the button below.

If you are outside of the local area, you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.