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Read Dr. Elena Krasnov's Weekly Column in the Health & Fitness section of the 24 Hours Magazine. Look for new articles every week!

Monday, October 27, 2008

Managing Migraines

Q: Dear Elena: I get chronic migraines. They have become so bad that occasionally I will pass-out from the pain. Can you shed some light on how I can help myself to deal with this naturally?

A: It is thought that migraines may be caused by changes in the chemicals of the brain. In particular, the level of the serotonin the message-sending chemical decreases during a migraine.

Low levels of serotonin can make the blood vessels in a part of your brain spasm (suddenly contract), which makes them narrower. This may cause the symptoms of aura. Soon after, the blood vessels then dilate (widen), which is thought to be the cause of the headache. However, the exact cause of the drop in serotonin levels is not yet fully understood.

A family history is usually present, suggesting a genetic predisposition in migraine sufferers. I advise my patients to take a genetic test such as the one available from Cygene laboratories that can show if you are pre-disposed to migraines.

Many factors have been identified as triggering the onset of a migraine. These triggers include emotional, physical, dietary, environmental, medicinal factors and hormone fluctuations such as the ones occurring during a menstrual cycle. Fluctuating hormones are thought to be the reason why more females have migraines compared with males.

Therapy that does not involve medications can provide symptomatic and preventative therapy. Using ice, biofeedback, and relaxation techniques may be helpful at stopping an attack once it has started. If possible, sleep is the best medicine. Preventing migraine takes motivation for the patient to make some life changes. These include smoking cessation, avoiding certain foods especially those high in tyramine (sharp cheeses) or those containing sulphites (wines) or nitrates (nuts, pressed meats). Generally, leading a healthy life style with good nutrition, adequate water intake, sufficient sleep and exercise may be useful. \

Acupuncture has been suggested to be a useful non-medication therapy. Anti-inflammatory formulas may frequently also be helpful. Formulas containing such common natural ingredients as turmeric, quercetin, green tea and boswellia. Homeopathic formulas specifically formulated for migraines such as Pascoe's Migrenopas are very effective treatments.

As always, your treatment must star with detoxification. Cleaning your digestive system, restoring a healthy balance in your gut and improving circulation are very important. 

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Dr. Elena Krasnov is a registered Naturopathic Doctor and Clinic Director of the Toronto Naturopathic Clinic. Submit your questions online at 24hrs.ca

Co-written by Miranda Tallon-Malisani Holistic Nutritionist