Posted November 6, 2013
According to the Migraine Research Foundation, every 10 seconds someone visits a hospital emergency room in the U.S. to seek treatment for a severe headache or migraine.
Approximately 36 million women, men and children are affected by migraines, which are often classified as serious and debilitating. New research is helping medical professionals understand the causes and effective treatment options.
A migraine is more than a really bad headache. Scientists rank migraines among the top 20 disabling medical illnesses. At least 90 percent of individuals with migraines say they are unable to conduct normal activities when an attack occurs. Most people who experience a migraine do so one or two times monthly, but approximately 14 million Americans report having migraines at least 15 days during the month.
Recently scientists discovered several possible causes for migraines:
- Incomplete network of arteries that supply blood to the brain; images show that individuals with migraines have differences in the structure of these blood vessels
- Foods and beverages may trigger a migraine when combined with other life experiences, such as stress or hormonal changes
- Dehydration may be a factor in prompting a migraine
- Obesity may increase the likelihood of an occasional or episodic migraines
Learn more about migraines:
WebMD: Migraines & Headaches Health Center
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