To reduce migraine occurrence, doctors tell patients to look out for possible triggers. Sadly, a new study indicates that this strategy may not be as practical as once thought.
What’s Really Going On?
Although they don’t know why migraines occur, most medical professionals believe that certain triggers work to bring them on. Often, different people find themselves vulnerable to different triggers. For some, vigorous exercise can increase the risk of a headache; for others, eating chocolate could prove catalytic.
To assess the potential role of triggers in migraine headache occurrence, researchers exposed nearly 30 subjects to a variety of triggers in an attempt to provoke migraine attacks. Ultimately, however, they were shocked to find that just over 10 percent actually experienced migraines.
Why the Low Percentage?
Although this research appears to indicate that triggers aren’t as big a factor in causing migraines as once thought; the researchers have another theory. According to their final report, to bring on a migraine, triggers might need pre-existing circumstances, such as hormonal imbalances, anxiety or depression. Whatever the case, this research clearly shows just how hard it can be for people to identify their specific migraine triggers.
More Confusion
In certain instances, people aren’t able to discover the specific cause of their headaches, because they don’t actually suffer from migraines. Some physical problems, such as temporomandibular joint disorders, have the ability to cause severe headaches that resemble migraines. In these instances, a reliable TMD treatment can cure chronic headaches by addressing the root of the problem.
Curing TMD Headaches
If you experience facial tenderness, tinnitus, jaw pain and jaw popping in addition to debilitating headaches, you could have TMD. After giving you a professional evaluation, Dr. Siegel can give you a clear, accurate diagnosis. If he determines that temporomandibular joint disorder is causing your problem, he’ll provide an efficient, targeted TMJ treatment strategy that will have you feeling better in no time. To learn more, call (610) 272-0828 today.
