Migraines are a type of headache that can be extremely debilitating and can affect a person’s ability to carry out their daily activities. From a functional medicine perspective, migraines are viewed as a symptom of an underlying issue in the body, rather than a condition in and of themselves. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and treatments of migraines from a functional medicine perspective.

Symptoms of migraines

Migraines are characterized by a severe, pulsating headache that is often accompanied by other symptoms such as:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Fatigue or weakness
• Visual disturbances such as seeing spots or flashing lights

Migraines can last anywhere from a few hours to several days and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

Causes of migraines

Migraines can have a variety of triggers, including:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Food sensitivities or allergies
• Environmental toxins
• Stress and tension
• Poor sleep habits
• Dehydration
• Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine

In functional medicine, it is important to identify the underlying cause of the migraines in order to properly treat them. This may involve a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, lifestyle factors, and laboratory tests to identify any underlying imbalances or deficiencies.

Treatments for migraines

The treatment of migraines from a functional medicine perspective typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and targeted supplements or medications. Some common treatments for migraines may include:

• Identifying and eliminating food sensitivities or allergens through an elimination diet
• Balancing hormones through targeted supplementation or medication
• Reducing exposure to environmental toxins
• Reducing stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga
• Improving sleep hygiene
• Increasing water intake to avoid dehydration
• Supplementing with key nutrients such as magnesium and vitamin B2

In addition to these treatments, patients may also benefit from other supportive therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, or biofeedback. The key to treating migraines from a functional medicine perspective is to identify and address the underlying cause of the migraines, rather than simply treating the symptoms.

Tests for migraine

1. Food intolerances
2. Gluten intolerance
3. Histamine intolerance
4. Gut tests
5. SIBO
6. Hormone tests: Adrenals, Estrogen & progesterone, Men’s hormones, Women’s hormones
7. Nutrition tests: Minerals, vitamins (A, B3, B5 & Biotin), vitamins (B12, folate, D, E & Q10), vitamin (All)
8. Heavy metals
9. Organic acids
10. Melatonin

In conclusion, migraines are a debilitating condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. From a functional medicine perspective, migraines are viewed as a symptom of an underlying issue in the body, rather than a condition in and of themselves. By identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the migraines through a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and targeted supplements or medications, patients can find relief from their symptoms and achieve optimal health and wellness.