Migraines are not ordinary headaches. Scientifically speaking, this severe pain is caused by temporary dilation of blood vessels in the brain and associated chemical changes in the nervous system. People with migraines often experience extreme sensitivity to light, sound, and certain smells. This pain can last from hours to days. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind this:
Neurological Imbalance: The main scientific reason behind migraine pain is a change in the level of a chemical called serotonin in the brain. When serotonin decreases, the blood vessels in the brain dilate excessively (vasodilation), which stimulates the trigeminal nerve and causes severe pain. This is a condition that can be passed down genetically from generation to generation.
Triggers: Everyone has different triggers for migraines. Stress, lack of sleep, hunger, and dehydration are important. Certain foods (for example: cheese, chocolate, caffeinated drinks, foods with Ajinomoto), weather changes, and intense light or noise can also trigger migraines.
Hormonal Shifts: The main reason why women are more likely to get migraines than men is because of hormonal changes. Sudden changes in the body’s estrogen levels before and after menstruation can trigger migraines. Many women experience this pain more often during pregnancy and around menopause.
Excessive alcohol and caffeine use: Alcohol (especially red wine) dilates blood vessels and causes severe headaches. Similarly, regular tea and coffee drinkers who suddenly stop drinking it can cause blood vessels in the brain to dilate rapidly and cause migraines due to caffeine withdrawal.
Eye strain and physical exertion: Staring at a computer screen or mobile phone for a long time, and not wearing glasses even though your eyes have power (Eye Strain) can put excessive pressure on the nerves in the brain and lead to migraine pain. Similarly, tightness in the neck muscles can also cause this.
