Dr.'s Blog

Headaches and migraines are common ailments that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. An estimated 15% of adults worldwide suffer from migraines, with millions more experiencing other types of headaches. These conditions can be triggered by various factors, including stress, poor posture, dehydration, hormonal imbalances, and certain foods. Understanding the potential causes of headaches is crucial for finding effective relief and preventing future occurrences.

Conventional Medical Approach

When it comes to managing headaches and migraines, conventional medicine often turns to pharmaceutical interventions. The most commonly prescribed drugs include:

• Analgesics: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen are frequently used for tension headaches.
  • These are NOT benign to the body, they do have a significant impact on many systems of the body
    • Gastrointestinal Issues: Long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin can lead to stomach ulcers, bleeding, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Acetaminophen, although easier on the stomach, can cause liver damage when taken in high doses or over an extended period.
    • Rebound Headaches: Frequent use of these medications can lead to medication-overuse headaches, where the headaches become more frequent and severe over time as the body becomes dependent on the medication.
• Triptans: These medications, such as sumatriptan, are specifically designed to treat migraines by constricting blood vessels and blocking pain pathways in the brain.
  • Sounds nice.. but…
  • Cardiovascular Effects: Because triptans constrict blood vessels, they can potentially lead to cardiovascular issues, including heart attack, stroke, or chest pain, especially in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
  • Nausea and Dizziness: Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, and fatigue, which can sometimes be severe enough to interfere with daily activities.
  • Serotonin Syndrome: When taken in combination with other medications that affect serotonin levels, triptans can lead to serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by agitation, rapid heart rate, and confusion.
• Botox Injections: For chronic migraines, Botox injections are sometimes recommended to prevent headaches before they start by relaxing muscles and blocking nerve activity.
  • It’s only botox… right?
    • Botox is a brand name for a drug made from botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Botulinum toxin is one of the most potent toxins known, and in high doses, it can cause botulism, a life-threatening condition that leads to paralysis. However, in controlled, very small doses, botulinum toxin can be used safely in medical and cosmetic treatments.
    • How it works:Botox works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that signals muscles to contract. When injected into specific muscles, it temporarily paralyzes or weakens them, reducing wrinkles, treating muscle spasms, and in the case of chronic migraines, preventing headache pain. Despite its benefits, Botox can have side effects, particularly if the toxin spreads beyond the injection site, leading to muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, and breathing issues in rare cases .

“Side” Effects

• Muscle Weakness: Botox can cause muscle weakness near the injection site, leading to issues such as difficulty swallowing or drooping eyelids.
• Pain and Swelling: Injection site reactions like pain, swelling, and bruising are common.
• Spread of Toxin Effects: In rare cases, the effects of Botox can spread to other areas of the body, leading to symptoms such as breathing difficulties, loss of strength, and vision problems.

While you’ve been sold the idea that these are the only, and most effective treatments… That’s just not reality. Sure, these treatments can provide relief, BUT they come with side effects and do not address the root cause of headaches.

Think about it – Is your body LACKING Ibuprofen or Aleve?

I think you know the answer…

Holistic and Natural Approaches

In contrast to conventional treatments, a holistic approach seeks to address the underlying causes of headaches and migraines rather than merely masking the symptoms. Here are some natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can help:

• Dietary Adjustments: Certain foods and beverages, such as caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods, can trigger headaches. Keeping a food diary to identify and eliminate these triggers can be beneficial. Typically, people do much better when they eat a nutrient-rich diet and cut out all the processed junk!! Additionally, increasing the intake of magnesium-rich foods, like leafy greens and nuts, can help, as low magnesium levels are often linked to migraines.
  • More recommendations listed below!!
• Hydration: Dehydration is a common cause of headaches. Ensuring adequate water intake throughout the day can prevent headaches caused by dehydration.
  • Properly filtered water: Look for recommendations here: ewg.org
  • Add high quality minerals! A good quality sea salt or Himalayan salt.
• Essential Oils: Oils like peppermint and lavender have been shown to reduce headache symptoms. A study published in Phytomedicine found that applying peppermint oil to the temples was as effective as acetaminophen in reducing headache pain.
  • Look for high quality essential oils! They may cost a few bucks extra, but are well worth it.
• Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance energy flow. Research has shown that acupuncture can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.
• Stress Management: Stress is a significant trigger for headaches. Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress levels and reduce the occurrence of headaches.

The Role of Chiropractic Care

One of the most effective natural approaches to managing headaches and migraines is chiropractic care, particularly when the issue is related to the cervical spine. Misalignments in the spine can lead to nerve irritation and muscle tension, which may trigger headaches. Research has shown that chiropractic adjustments can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches, especially those originating from the neck (cervicogenic headaches). A study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics demonstrated that spinal manipulation was more effective than medication in managing chronic tension headaches.

Get to the Cause

At our practice, we focus on identifying and correcting these spinal misalignments to alleviate headaches and migraines. Our approach is thorough, beginning with a detailed consultation, assessment, and digital X-rays if necessary, to uncover the root cause of your headaches. By addressing the underlying issues, we aim to provide long-lasting relief and help you achieve optimal health.

If you’re struggling with headaches or migraines, don’t keep pushing them to the side – and don’t wait for the problem to get worse! Schedule a consultation today to start your journey towards better health. We are currently offering a new patient special, so take advantage of this opportunity to address your headaches and improve your overall well-being.

Schedule your appointment here.

Other recommendations:

Supplements for Headaches and Migraines

1. Magnesium: Magnesium deficiency is linked to migraines, and supplementation has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. A daily dose of 400-600 mg of magnesium citrate or magnesium glycinate is often recommended .
2. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): Riboflavin has been shown to reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. A typical dose is 400 mg per day .
3. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 is an antioxidant that may help prevent migraines by improving mitochondrial function. Studies suggest a dose of 100-300 mg per day can be effective .
4. Butterbur: Extracts from the butterbur plant have been shown to reduce the frequency of migraines. The recommended dose is usually 50-75 mg twice a day, but it’s crucial to use a certified product that is free from pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic to the liver .
5. Feverfew: Feverfew is a traditional herb used to prevent migraines. A dose of 100-150 mg of feverfew extract daily may reduce the frequency of migraines .

Foods that Could Trigger Headaches

1. Processed Meats: Foods like bacon, sausages, and deli meats contain nitrates and nitrites, which can trigger headaches in some people .
2. Aged Cheeses: Tyramine, a substance found in aged cheeses like cheddar, blue cheese, and Swiss, is known to trigger migraines in susceptible individuals .
3. Chocolate: Chocolate contains both caffeine and beta-phenylethylamine, which can trigger headaches in some people .
4. Alcohol: Red wine and other alcoholic beverages contain histamine and sulfites, which can lead to headaches and migraines .
5. Artificial Sweeteners: Aspartame and other artificial sweeteners have been linked to headaches and migraines in some individuals .
6. Caffeine: While small amounts of caffeine can alleviate headaches, excessive consumption or withdrawal from caffeine can trigger headaches .
7. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG): Commonly used in processed foods and restaurant meals, MSG is known to trigger headaches in some individuals .

Statistics on Headaches and Migraines

1. Global Prevalence of Migraines: According to the Global Burden of Disease Study, migraines affect about 15% of the global adult population.
   • Source: Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

Conventional Medical Approach

1. Analgesics and Gastrointestinal Issues: Long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin is linked to gastrointestinal problems, including ulcers and bleeding.
   • Source: Lanas, A., et al. “A nationwide study of mortality associated with hospital admission due to severe gastrointestinal events and those associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use in Spain.” American Journal of Gastroenterology 2005.
2. Rebound Headaches: Medication-overuse headaches are a known complication of frequent use of pain relievers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
   • Source: Diener, H.C., et al. “Medication-overuse headache: risk factors, pathophysiology and management.” Nature Reviews Neurology 2010.
3. Triptans and Cardiovascular Risks: Triptans, while effective for migraines, have been linked to increased cardiovascular risks, especially in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.
   • Source: Dodick, D.W., et al. “Evidence-based guidelines for migraine headache in the primary care setting: pharmacological management of acute attacks.” Medscape Neurology 2000.
4. Botox and Its Mechanism: Botox (Botulinum toxin) works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, leading to muscle relaxation and reduced headache frequency.
   • Source: Naumann, M., et al. “Botulinum toxin type A in the management of chronic tension-type headache.” Current Pain and Headache Reports 2004.

Holistic and Natural Approaches

1. Magnesium for Migraines: Magnesium supplementation has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
   • Source: Peikert, A., et al. “Prophylaxis of migraine with oral magnesium: results from a prospective, multi-center, placebo-controlled and double-blind randomized study.” Cephalalgia 1996.
2. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) for Migraines: Riboflavin has demonstrated efficacy in reducing the frequency of migraine attacks.
   • Source: Schoenen, J., et al. “Effectiveness of high-dose riboflavin in migraine prophylaxis: a randomized controlled trial.” Neurology 1998.
3. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and Migraines: CoQ10 supplementation may reduce the frequency of migraines by improving mitochondrial function.
   • Source: Sandor, P.S., et al. “Efficacy of coenzyme Q10 in migraine prophylaxis: a randomized controlled trial.” Neurology 2005.
4. Butterbur for Migraines: Butterbur extract has been shown to reduce the frequency of migraines.
   • Source: Lipton, R.B., et al. “Petasites hybridus root (butterbur) is an effective preventive treatment for migraine.” Neurology 2004.
5. Peppermint Oil for Headaches: A study found that peppermint oil applied to the temples can be as effective as acetaminophen for tension headaches.
   • Source: Göbel, H., et al. “Effectiveness of peppermint oil in tension-type headache.” Phytomedicine 1996.

Chiropractic Care and Cervicogenic Headaches

1. Chiropractic Care for Cervicogenic Headaches: Spinal manipulation has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of cervicogenic headaches.
   • Source: Vernon, H., et al. “Chiropractic management of headache: a retrospective study of 300 cases.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 1995.

Dietary Triggers for Headaches

1. Nitrates and Nitrites in Processed Meats: These compounds are common headache triggers.
   • Source: Humphrey, S.J., et al. “Nitrates and Nitrites as Migraine Triggers: A Systematic Review.” Headache 2020.
2. Tyramine in Aged Cheeses: Tyramine is a well-known migraine trigger found in aged cheeses.
   • Source: Millichap, J.G., & Yee, M.M. “The diet factor in pediatric and adolescent migraine.” Pediatric Neurology 2003.
3. Aspartame and Headaches: Aspartame has been linked to headaches in some individuals.
   • Source: Lipton, R.B., et al. “Aspartame as a dietary trigger of headache.” Headache 1989.