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Migraines

Overview

There is no single theory that adequately explains the underlying cause of a migraine. To treat this condition our center establishes current levels of various hormones and nutrients, such as the calcium to magnesium ratio. We also establish the functioning status of the pineal gland, and the digestive/intestinal tract, and strive to restore all levels and functions to their natural, healthy state. What is apparent is that this condition is the consequence of an intricate combination of neuro-hormonal and metabolic imbalances.

Other often overlooked factors may play a part in migraines: Insomnia. This needs to be eliminated since many times stress underlies the sleep disorder and stress causes an over-stimulation of Cortisol, and the sympathetic nervous system. Due to a lack of sleep there may be associated elevated blood pressure and fluctuations in lipid and sugar metabolism. Melatonin secreted by the pineal gland has other influencing factors such as; it helps balance the activity of the endocrine glands, and it has a direct influence on the secretion of Estrogen (a key hormone in migraine) Nitric oxide which is also a neuro-transmitter, which may trigger migraines, is inhibited by melatonin. To complete the treatment satisfactorily of migraine, there needs to be restoration of certain vitamins, natural calming agents - vitamins essential for the production of Serotonin. Back to Top

Symptoms

• Moderate to severe headache intensity
• Nausea
• Headaches that get worse with physical activity
• Vomiting
• Throbbing/pulsating on one side of the head

*This is not a complete list and if you are experiencing these symptoms it is not guaranteed you are have migraines. Back to Top

Treatment

Understanding the imbalances that are present, contributes to a successful remedy for migraine headaches. At the Houston Wellness Clinic we exercise a multi-level approach, which consists of the following:

• Restoring the hormones of the neuro-hormonal system (particularly, the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland and the glands that produce steroid hormones (ovaries, testis and adrenal gland).
• Balancing the cyclical production of the neurotransmitters Serotonin, and Melatonin
• Establishing harmony of the digestive system
• Ensuring a correct calcium-to-magnesium balance
• Maintaining a balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems

The underlying philosophy is to correct deficiencies, by getting these substances to their respective optimal, rather than normal, reference ranges. We are strong advocates of HRT with bio-identical rather than synthetic hormones, and prefer the gel/cream route to oral. The secret to achieving a cure for migraine headaches is to restore (not replace) selected hormones specific to your unique body chemistry and needs. It is the balance between the various hormones rather than their individual levels that is critical to the elimination of migraines.

Since the digestive tract may be the scene of the crime, overall therapy is directed to maintaining a healthy digestive tract. Stress needs to be addressed, since stress leads to over-stimulation of the vagus nerve, hence increased secretion of Serotonin in the gut, and resultant Diarrhea.

This comprehensive conservative approach of fundamentally restoring appropriate healthy functioning of the body rather than treating a symptom (headache) with drugs that have significant side-effects associated, is our philosophy at the Houston Wellness Clinic. Dr. Allibone treats his patients on an extremely individualized level to reach optimal health. Back to Top