Migraine headaches can be debilitating issue that interferes severely with daily functioning and quality of life.  Preventing and treating migraine headaches, however, is certainly possible with the right combination of medicine and therapy.  The exact causes of migraine headaches remain unknown to the medical community, but it is usually accepted that serotonin plays a large role in migraine.  Low serotonin levels can frequently lead to a migraine headache episode.

Migraine headache can sometimes be preceded by what is known as an “aura.”  An aura occurs with what are called classic migraine headaches.  In a classic migraine attack, the sufferer may experience changes in vision, such as strange colors or spots that develop.  Tenderness in the scalp is usually a sign of a developing migraine episode.  Alterations in mood can also occur, such as depression or irritability.  These subtle symptoms can begin developing as much as a full day before the onset of a migraine attack.  The following migraine headaches usually come about with a high degree of intensity, but do not last long.

Common migraine headaches take longer to develop, and last longer than classic migraines.  This can be seriously debilitating, and can make daily functioning difficult.  Fortunately, many medications exist to alleviate migraine pain.  Sleep and plenty of fluids are very important in helping to prevent the onset of migraine headaches.  During an attack, be sure to remain in a dark and quiet environment.  Use a cold compress to reduce the tension, and massage the scalp with a fair amount of pressure.  Stress is believed to be one of the top causes of migraine headaches, and should therefore be avoided as much as possible.

Some foods are also believed to play a significant role in migraine development.

Physicians recommend, for example, that red wine should be avoided by sufferers of migraine headaches.  Canned and processed meat can also attribute to migraine episodes.  Causes of migraine headaches can also include excess amounts of caffeine, aged cheese, or cultured dairy products.  If you suffer chronic headaches, see a physician for a full list of foods and beverages that should be avoided.