How Oxidative Stress May Trigger Migraines

I run a Renton Chiropractic Clinic for migraine, and I’ve studied this condition for many years now. For those who aren’t aware, migraines affect one billion people worldwide. These attacks consist of severely disabling symptoms, which include dizziness or vertigo, nausea, and vomiting, in addition to severe head pain.  

Migraine episodes can involve tingling and numbness of the arms, legs, and face, and acute throbbing head pain on one or both sides. Some people also experience hypersensitivity to lights and sounds.  

Migraine episodes last about 4 to 72 hours, and symptoms vary from person to person. But recent studies attribute oxidative stress to the onset of migraines.  

If you’re one of those dealing with this condition, this article is for you. Hopefully, after reading this, you’ll be able to deal with this condition correctly and find natural relief that works.  

And if you’re looking for a chiropractic facility in Renton, WA, check out my clinic, Restoration Spinal Care. 

To learn more about the connection between head and neck injuries and migraine headaches, download our complimentary e-book NATURAL AND DRUG-FREE WAYS TO END YOUR MIGRAINES by clicking the image below.

What is oxidative stress?

Oxidative stress develops when there is an imbalance between the antioxidants and free radicals in the body. Free radicals form when oxygen metabolizes. They lack an electron. To compensate for that void, they seek out another molecule with an electron to take its place. In this process, these free radicals can damage surrounding cells.  

One example in the environment is when metal rusts due to oxidation. The human body begins to go through this rusting process when more free radicals develop. The bad news is that the more new free radicals form, the more damage the body endures.  

Some people may show signs of aging sooner and develop more health conditions. Oxidative stress can be one factor in the acceleration of the aging process and the development of health conditions.  

Studies show that some people have more free radicals than others because of lack of exercise and an unhealthy diet. Other reasons for increased free radicals in the body are excessive stress, radiation, air pollution, and smoking cigarettes. For some people, the causes could be too much exercise and sunlight, or medication side effects.  

But how do we counter these free radicals, you may ask? The answer is plant foods rich in antioxidants. As much as possible, follow a healthy lifestyle to decrease the amount of free radicals in your body. Stick with nourishing food and a healthy, stress-free environment.  

Once you can reduce the oxidative stress in your body, fighting off migraines and other conditions becomes easier.  

The connection between oxidative stress and migraines

Several research studies already revealed high levels of oxidative stress among migraine sufferers. As explained by the American Headache Society’s Dr. Jonathan Borkum, Ph.D., migraine triggers could raise the brain’s oxidative stress. An imbalance then occurs between the creation of free radicals and the body’s capacity to curb its harmful effects. Some of these migraine triggers include sleep deprivation, stress, loud noises, air pollution, and poor diet.  

Dr. Borkum also noted that migraine attacks aren’t just instigated by oxidative stress. In fact, migraines are also a way for the body to protect and repair the brain from oxidative stress.  

Migraines are more than just bouts with nausea, pain, and sensitivity to light and sound. There are several reasons why these attacks take place, and it’s always essential to get to the root of the problem.  

Migraine pain relief through upper cervical care

To fight off free radicals and lessen oxidative stress, the body should be in its best shape and performing at optimal levels. That means taking care of it in its entirety, including the central nervous system.  

Correct spinal alignment is vital to the overall health of the body. But one problem is that misalignments are common within the uppermost bones in the neck: the C1 and C2 vertebrae. These bones can quickly move out of position just from accidents, or from something simple like tripping and falling.  

Once a misalignment occurs, the brainstem endures unnecessary pressure, resulting in improper signals relayed to the brain and body. It also disrupts the flow of blood and cerebrospinal fluid to and from the brain, which can lead to migraines.  

An impaired brainstem also influences the flow of free radicals throughout the body, which potentially leads to wear and tear and more significant health problems.  

My Renton chiropractic clinic for migraine specializes in the proper alignment of the vertebrae using gentle, non-intrusive methods. I avoid popping or cracking the neck, and instead use a gentler technique. I lightly assist these bones and move them back into place as naturally as possible. 

Upon the completion of adjustments, the full process of healing follows. Most of my patients report significant improvements in their condition after undergoing upper cervical chiropractic care. They experience a decease in severity and frequency of migraine episodes, and some have had their migraines stop completely. 

If you’re looking for a Renton chiropractic clinic for migraine, contact Restoration Spinal Care.

 

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Sherwood, call 425-243-1607 or just click the button below.

If you are outside of the local area, you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.