Why Are Women More Likely to Get Migraines?
Anyone of any age can suffer from migraines, but the condition disproportionately affects women. Of the 37 million reported migraine sufferers in the United States, nearly three-fourths of those patients are women. Women are not only more likely to get migraines, but their episodes are more likely to last longer than migraines do for men.
What Are Migraines?
A migraine is not just a bad headache; it is an entire episode that includes a severe headache. Many people who suffer from migraines experience them in stages.
The first stage of a migraine may begin days or hours before the actual headache kicks in. During this phase, you may experience mood swings, food cravings, constipation, frequent urination, or excessive yawning. Many sufferers report they begin getting a stiff neck, or they may have visual disturbances.
The next stage is when a throbbing headache strikes, usually moderate to severe. It is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity, or sound sensitivity. It can last for a few hours to a few days.
The final stage is when the worst of the headache subsides. The sufferer may feel drained, and confused, or may experience tension headaches. This can last a day or two after the attack.
Why Migraines Strike Women
Doctors are not entirely sure what causes migraines, but research is pointing to an issue with the nervous system. Nerve signals regulating the endocrine system may be disrupted, causing issues with the production and release of certain hormones that oversee mood, sleep, and the menstrual cycle.
The Role of the Upper Cervical Spine
The upper cervical spine is the uppermost part of the spine that runs through the neck. When there is a misalignment in this part of the spine, it can cause compression or pinching of the nerves, leading to misfiring nerve signals.
Chiropractors who are experts in the upper cervical area can make corrections to relieve any swelling or pinching that might interfere with nerve signals. Once the spine's properly aligned state is restored, the body's natural healing processes commence to repair damage and restore health.
People who get upper cervical care report a reduction in the frequency and severity of migraines.
How We Treat Migraines
Dr. Gordon Elder of the Blair Chiropractic Clinic in Lubbock, Texas is an upper cervical specialist trained in the Blair Chiropractic Technique. The Blair technique makes use of advanced diagnostic tools and special low-pressure manipulations to help target the problem and coax the spine back into proper alignment. Once this is done, the body's healing mechanisms are free to restore health.
Dr. Elder has a three-step treatment process. Step one is consultation, including a 3D diagnostic imaging scan. Step two is healing, as he applies gentle adjustments with precision thanks to superior technology scans. Finally, step three is preventative to keep migraines at bay in the future.
Migraines are debilitating, and make life both difficult and stressful. Contact Dr. Elder to see if upper cervical care can help you. Dr. Elder's areas of coverage include Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.
Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.