If you're someone who suffers from frequent and recurring migraine attacks, you might be wondering what it means. Let's help you understand your situation and determine how you can move forward better with the help of upper cervical care consultations. Also, we will tackle additional topics like differences between migraine and migraine with aura so you can better manage the impacts of your condition.

Are Migraines A Cause of Concern?

Migraine, is a neurological concern that affects one's brain in many ways. It is characterized by severe, recurring headaches with or without warning signs. Oftentimes, it results from a chemical imbalance in the brain, which can set off intense sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, throbbing pain, vomiting, dizziness, ringing in the ears, and more. That is because when migraines occur, blood vessels in your brain dilate temporarily, causing all the pain and other symptoms.

They're typically accompanied by an aura — a visual disturbance that often precedes the headache itself. Auras usually take the form of flashing lights or spots before your eyes that may be tinged with color. Migraines can last anywhere from 4-72 hours, but symptoms can continue for days or weeks after it has passed.

If you experience some of these symptoms more than once a month, you likely have migraines! Several studies reveal that migraines typically don't cause significant problems unless they happen frequently and prevent you from functioning properly.

Is Migraine Different From Migraine with Aura?        

Migraine with aura distinguishes itself from other types by the warning signs that it causes before the actual headache. Some people with this migraine have sensory symptoms during an aura phase in which they might feel numbness or tingling in one arm or leg, which goes away once the migraine begins. People with motor weakness often describe feeling shaky, dizzy, and tired after experiencing this symptom. While the aura symptoms can differ for each person, its most usual demonstrations are a change or disturbance in your vision. This could happen when you look at something or focus on it. You may see bright spots or wavy lines that prevent you from seeing properly.

They are temporary and go away after a few minutes to an hour – depending on how long the migraine lasts. The severity of these symptoms makes some people think of migraines as "all in your head." But while these symptoms may seem like they're happening inside your brain, they're actually caused by chemical changes in your brain during your episode.

What exactly is going on in the brain during a migraine with aura? Its actual cause is unknown, but it's believed that this type of migraine involves abnormal activation of specific nerves within or near structures called cranial nuclei located at the base of your brainstem. Studies claim that these nervous system tissues play a role in regulating sensory information. But this doesn't mean that the pain isn't real! It just means that there's more going on than meets the eye.

Who Are At Risk For Migraines?

Migraines are a common debilitating condition that affects millions of people in the United States. While they usually aren't severe, they can be extremely painful and cause significant disability. It can affect people of various age groups, but they're most common among young people. This condition usually starts in childhood or adolescence and lasts through adulthood, although its severity and frequency may improve as you get older.

People at risk of migraines are those who have an upper cervical injury, trauma, or other medical problems such as depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. They also tend to have a low tolerance for loud noises and light flashes.

When Should Migraine Patients Seek Medical Attention?

If you have migraines and have been having them for a while, you may wonder when it's time to seek medical treatment. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to that question, some guidelines can help you decide when it's time to talk about your migraine headaches with your doctor.

Here are signs that it's time for you to call your doctor:

• If your headaches are getting worse or more frequent.
• If the pain interferes with your ability to work or go about your daily activities.
• If you feel like your headaches are taking over your life, and you're feeling depressed or anxious.
• If you start experiencing new symptoms and headaches, such as nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, or concentration problems.

Let an Upper Cervical Chiropractor Can Help You!

If your migraine is becoming more and more frequent, it might be time to find yourself a professional upper cervical chiropractor.

Chiropractors can help stop migraines from recurring by providing gentle and holistic upper cervical spine care. It's also a great alternative to taking oral medications, especially for individuals who prefer a natural approach to handle pain.

Many people find that chiropractic care helps them get rid of their headaches altogether, while others find it reduces the frequency of their headaches or makes them less severe when they do occur. People who suffer from migraines with aura may be able to prevent future episodes by actively seeking upper cervical chiropractic care; many patients have reported fewer or no symptoms after experiencing chiropractic care.

At this point, you know what the two most common kinds of migraine are and how they can be treated. It's important to remember that the best approach to managing migraine is prevention, so be sure to have regular upper cervical spine adjustments and be happily surprised by the reduced frequency of your migraine attacks.

If you need help finding a local chiropractor, visit our comprehensive list of all the best chiropractors in the United States! It’s about time you take advantage of this unique approach to healing the body.

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