Migraines are described as a moderate to severe throbbing or pulsating headache that is usually on one side (they can move to the opposite side as they progress or sometimes can even be on both sides). Migraines usually last hours to days and can cause other symptoms like nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, visual changes like blind spots, flashes of light. auras (shades of colors and shapes) and lines (straight and/or wavy). Some people can even experience numbness and tingling in their face and hands. The visual symptoms often proceed the headache and in one type of migraine called a silent or ocular migraine, there is no headache, only the visual disturbances.
Migraines were originally thought to be due to problems with the blood vessels constricting and dilating improperly. The new theory is that there is an over stimulation of nerve signaling in the brain causing the pain. As a Chiropractic Physician treating migraine patients over the last 30+ years, I have found that correcting the misalignment of the vertebrae in the upper neck, will in most cases, either reduce the intensity of the symptoms or stop the migraine altogether. This has lead me to believe that the theory of over stimulation of nerve signals to the brain is the most likely cause.
Other triggers that can cause migraines involve a chemical or inflammatory reaction to things such as food allergens, MSG, wine, aged cheese and leftovers. Environmental toxic exposures or even everyday chemicals in products such as perfumes and air fresheners can also be triggers. These types of triggers are best treated from a Functional Medicine approach as they can be coming from a histamine over reaction(for more information see the Functional Medicine portion of our website.)
As a Board Certified Chiropractic Physician and also a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner, Dr. Williams is uniquely qualified to discern where your migraines may be originating and offer treatment plans to fit your individual needs.