Student Article High School Science Journal Author: Snigdha Poddar

An Aching Enigma: The Migraine

July 19, 2007

Approximately 30 million Americans, 75% of which are women, are plagued by the throbbing and often unbearable pain of migraines. Characterized by a severe headache that can sometimes be accompanied by other acute symptoms, the migraine has been classified as a neurological disease that is little understood.

      A migraine headache can affect either one or both sides of the head, and can leave one disabled from anywhere between a couple of hours to a few days. The headaches have been found to come with some extra symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting. However, the symptoms vary considerably from person to person, making the disease and diagnosis of the disease all the more difficult.

      There are several suggestions for the cause of migraines, but none are absolute. Some triggers include hormonal changes (especially the fluctuations of the levels of estrogen and progesterone in women), stress, physical exertion, environmental changes (weather or seasons), skipping meals, and certain problem foods. Some scientists have said that a chemical imbalance is generated during a headache. Studies have shown that serotonin levels drop during such episodes. This causes the release of substances called neuropeptides that move to the outer portion of the brain. This initiates the vasodilation of cranial blood vessels, resulting in tissue inflammation around the brain and extreme pain. The hours that follow are characterized by constant vasodilation and vasoconstriction that accounts for the throbbing headache.

      For those who suffer from this debilitating disease, there is some comfort in the fact that although migraines cannot be eliminated completely, there are several measures that can be taken to control them. First, it is important to avoid any activities or foods that seem to correlate with one’s migraine attacks. In addition to such preventative measures, over the counter medicines such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin), or Excedrine Migraine (a combinations of acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and caffeine), are usually quite effective if taken at the first signs of pain. Still, if the headaches are so severe that taking these steps cannot control them, there are prescription medications such as Immitrex and beta blockers or calcium channel blockers (initially created for patients with hypertension) that may help. Yet, it is still necessary to remember that medication can come with side effects. No matter what kind of treatment one turns to, it is essential to be cautious and never overuse any kind of drugs. The scientific world continues to research the mystery behind migraines, and the hope for permanent relief remains. 

“Migraines: Myth vs. Reality.” Magnum. 1 Dec. 2006, http://www.migraines.org/myth/mythreal.htm

“Migraine.” The Complete Guide to Headache. 1 Dec. 2006, http://www.headaches.org/consumer/educationalmodules/completeguide/migraine.html

 
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