5 Potential Causes of Chronic Migraines

If you suffer from chronic migraines, you know they’re nothing like a regular headache. Migraines can be extremely debilitating for those with them, and many require prescription medication to keep the awful symptoms at bay.

What are some potential causes of chronic migraines? How do they start, and where do they come from? Though there are many triggers for chronic migraines, there is no one cause. Maintaining awareness about migraine triggers could prevent another episode. If you suffer from chronic migraines, here are some reasons why.

What’s Causing My Chronic Migraine?

Migraines can range from mild to severe. Some may experience episodic migraines, which occur in isolated instances and linger for a few hours. Those with chronic migraines experience them frequently, repeatedly, and for longer durations. In some cases, episodic migraines can progress to regular.

The range of causes for chronic migraines may be complex and individual-specific. It’s hard to say if there’s one trigger alone that spirals a migraine episode. Generally speaking, it’s usually many things that will trigger an attack. Here are some common causes of chronic migraines:

1. Vascular Irregularities

Vascular irregularities can mean several things. Overall, this could mean there are issues with the shape or size of blood vessels in the brain. This could prevent or disrupt proper blood flow to the brain, causing chronic migraines.

2. Genetics

If migraines frequently occur in your family, this increases someone’s chance of experiencing migraines, too. If a sibling, parent, or grandparent suffers from chronic migraines, this could also be your potential cause.

3. Chemical Imbalances

Your brain functions correctly when clear nerve pathways and chemicals are balanced evenly. When there is an imbalance of chemicals, this could result in chronic migraines.

4. Central Nervous System Disorder

There are many central nervous system disorders, such as epilepsy, Alzheimer's or dementia, or spinal cord disorders. These underlying neurological conditions could potentially cause chronic migraines.

5. Anxiety, stress, and hormone imbalances

Anxiety and stress can lead to potential hormonal imbalances when a pressure buildup and cortisol spikes, potentially resulting in chronic migraines. Those more prone to anxiety are more likely to experience migraines in their lifetime.

Chronic Migraine Treatment Options

There is hope for those who suffer from chronic migraines. Because of the complex nature of chronic migraines, there are many treatment plans to follow.

Medication may be prescribed to patients with severe chronic migraines. Medications like Almotriptan or Eletriptan can be taken at the onset of a migraine attack, and this could lessen the severity of symptoms and hopefully save you from unnecessary pain. In some cases, antidepressants and antiseizure medications may also be prescribed for migraines.

Lessening stress factors can also improve migraine symptoms significantly. Creating more rest, relaxation, and self-care time have also proven to be a useful treatment option.

There are even supplements you can incorporate into your lifestyle for migraine prevention. B-2 vitamins or foods with high levels of B-2 will support cellular function and digestion. Foods like salmon, egg yolks, cottage cheese, or dark meat all contain the necessary B-2 vitamin.

Chronic Migraine Symptoms

Differentiating between a regular headache and a migraine may be tricky for those who haven’t experienced migraines. To better understand the difference, symptoms associated with chronic migraines are:

• Nausea
• Sensitivity to noise, smell, or light
• Dizziness
• Disorientation
• Vertigo
• Extreme fatigue
• Severe throbbing or pulsing in head

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If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, know there is help. BASS Medical is here to support you.

BASS Medical is Here for You

Our dedicated team of medical professionals is here when you need it the most. You don’t have to suffer from chronic migraines or any related illnesses. For more questions about chronic migraines or to schedule your next appointment, call us at (925) 350-4044.

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