Migraine headaches are painful headaches that are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and light sensitivity. The American Migraine Foundation estimates that over 36 million Americans suffer from them. Approximately three times more women suffer from them than men. It is common for a migraine headache to last from 4 to 72 hours.
Some people experience an aura prior to or with the headache. This warning symptom can manifest as disturbances with vision such as blind spots or flashes of lights. An aura can also involve sensations of pins and needles, or numbness on one side of the body.
The cause of migraines is not completely understood by doctors; although it is believed that genetics and environmental factors can play a role. There are also a number of factors that seem to trigger migraines including:
- Stress
- Bright lights
- Strong odors
- Alcohol
- Hormonal changes
- Food additives
- And more
Another type of headache, called a hypnic headache, can produce migraine-like symptoms such as nausea, light sensitivity, and sensitivity to sounds. These are often referred to as “alarm clock” headaches because they occur at night and wake the person up. A person affected by hypnic headaches reports them occurring at about the same time every night.
Chiropractic treatment can help as was documented in the Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research journal (2019). A 59-year old woman reported suffering from both migraine and hypnic headaches. Her symptoms included nausea and skin rashes. The migraines first began when she got pregnant 15 years earlier. Over-the-counter medications had only given her temporary relief. The headaches were increasing in severity to the point of impacting her quality of life.
A chiropractic examination revealed that she carried her head more forward than normal. In addition, the chiropractor concluded that there was a misalignment of the vertebrae, or subluxation.
Based on the diagnosis, a treatment plan was designed for her. Initially, she had treatments twice a week for six weeks. Following another examination after this period, she continued to have treatments twice a week for three months. After that she went once a week for six weeks. The study found that after this treatment there was complete resolution of both the migraine and hypnic headaches. The woman continues to rarely suffer from these headaches and has regained her ability to enjoy everyday activities uninterrupted.
At Fiorini Chiropractic Center, we have the knowledge and expertise to help rid you of migraine and hypnic headaches. We look forward to talking with you and developing a treatment plan designed specifically for your needs. Give us a call at 850-656-2000.
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