More on Headaches

If you have a headache, you’re not alone. Nine out of ten Americans suffer from headaches. Headaches comprise the top three reasons why one goes to the doctor. Some are occasional, some frequent, some are dull and throbbing, and some cause debilitating pain and nausea. What do you do when you suffer from a pounding headache? Do you grit your teeth and carry on? Lie down? Pop a pill and hope the pain goes away? There is a better alternative. As a chiropractic neurologist, I have been successfully helping patients rid themselves of headaches, oftentimes in as little as one treatment. Research has demonstrated the value of manipulative therapy for a multitude of disorders including headaches. A report released in 2001 by researchers at the Duke University Evidence Based Practice Center in Durham, NC, found that spinal manipulation resulted in almost immediate improvement for those headaches that originate in the neck, and had significantly fewer side effects and longer-lasting relief of tension-type headache than a commonly prescribed medication.

As a neurologist, we have many diagnostic capabilities at our disposal, as well as adjunctive therapies, which have proven to work very well for migraineurs as well as headache sufferers who have yet to be diagnosed. Headaches have many causes, or “triggers.” These may include foods, environmental stimuli (noises, lights, stress, etc.) and/or behaviors (insomnia, excessive exercise, blood sugar changes, etc.). About 5 percent of all headaches are warning signals caused by physical problems. The other ninety-five percent of headaches are primary headaches, such as tension, migraine, or cluster headaches. These types of headaches are not caused by disease. The headache itself is the primary concern. Today, Americans engage in more sedentary activities than they used to, and more hours are spent in one fixed position or posture. Many find themselves in fluorescent lighting and/or in front of a computer monitor all day. Many are on the telephone much of the day, which is very stressful on the muscles of the head, neck and shoulder. These scenarios are fuel for headaches.

So what can you do?

If you spend a large amount of time in one fixed position, such as in front of a computer, take a break and stretch every 30 minutes to one hour. Exercise may help relieve the pain associated with primary headaches, however, this will often aggravate headaches of migraineurs. As migraine headaches are vascular headaches, they should always be evaluated prior to entertaining any course of self-treatment. Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day to help avoid dehydration, which can lead to headaches. Naturally, I would recommend all headache sufferers to come see us for an evaluation, as most will be helped in a short amount of time without requiring drug therapies, which can often have deleterious side effects and consequences. You will be referred for these types of therapies if felt to be warranted to be used as an alternative course of care, although this is certainly not the norm but rather the minority. The vast majority of our headache patients share a common conclusion; they invariably wish that they had come in to see us sooner and avoided the years of unnecessary suffering.

Dr. Scopelliti has over 1000 hours in post doctoral neurology, and practices at the 279 Professional Medical Arts Bldg at the rear of Monmouth Medical Center; Tel. (732) 229-5250. Information is updated weekly on the web at www.dcneuro.net.

About the Author:

Dr. Scopelliti has over 1000 hours in postdoctoral neurology, and is a board certified chiropractic neurologist, practicing at the 279 Professional Arts Bldg at the rear of Monmouth Medical Center, in Long Branch, NJ. He is also currently the president of the NJ Chiropractic Council on Neurology, (website: www.dcneuro.info). With over twenty years of practice, ten of those years specializing in neurology, his office focuses on the drug free management of patients with vertigo, dizziness, balance loss, presyncope, dystonia, various stages of coma, and many other neurologic as well as behavioral and cognitive disorders. Dr. Scopelliti is an author and lecturer of postdoctoral neurology, and has also written several software applications for vestibular rehabilitation; www.dcneuro.biz. Because of the nature of our practice and the high level of difficulty involved with the types of patients seen, our office customarily sees patients from several states for consultation and/or co-management. Dr. Scopelliti offers a free no obligation consultation including a balance test/risk of fall analysis prior to the commencement of any examinations or treatment. The office can be reached at (732) 229-5250 to arrange a free consultation, ($75 value), and balance screen. Dr. Scopelliti has a wealth of information updated weekly on the web at www.dcneuro.net. Visit our Guest Book link at www.dcneuro.net/guests.htm to see what real patients have had to say.

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Could Hidden Food Allergies Be Causing Your Migraines???

Today we're going to talk about hidden food allergies.

The first thing that it is important to understand is that there are different types of reactions to foods that we are allergic to. The most commonly understood and easily detected reaction is called a type 1 reaction or IgE reaction. With this type of reaction it is very easy to detect an allergy to a particular food. The symptoms of a Type 1 reaction are swelling of the throat, hives and an anaphylaxis type of reaction, a serious, potentially life-threatening allergic response. We are not focusing on that today because these allergies are very easily detected.

The type of allergy I want to talk to you about would more likely fall into the category of food sensitivities which are the result of an entirely different immuno/ biological process altogether. One that instead of being an immediate reaction may take hours or even days to actually become apparent. This is one of the reasons that most people have trouble recognizing the relationship between the symptoms that they are experiencing with something that they ate days prior (type 3 or type 4 reactions), even though type 3 and type 4 reactions are much more common. In fact only 5 percent of the population is affected by the type 1 so that means that most are affected by the type 3 or 4 allergy which is the "hidden" type.

How do you recognize whether or not you or someone you know could be experiencing a type 3 or 4 sensitivity or allergic reaction?

The most common way of diagnosing such sensitivities is to undergo an elimination process where diet is severely restricted and then one by one foods are reintroduced into the diet (usually one food per week). This can take months or even years to complete!!! Until now this has been the "Gold Standard"! The news I am about to share with you is LIFE CHANGING!!! Say goodbye to the old gold standard because now there is a very simple in home test which will detect hidden food allergies!

I know of a woman who suffered migraines for 18 years. She had been through test after test week after week and the doctors kept saying "there is nothing wrong" as they proceeded to prescribe another medication for her migraines. She spent thousands on these tests; in fact one of them cost her $1,200.00! After much arm twisting she took the in home test (for $99.00) and viola!!! The in home test revealed that she was allergic to foods in the mustard family. She is proceeding with the recommended protocol and I am happy to report NO MORE MIGRAINES! Another woman suffered from severe eczema for most of her life. There were times when she was house ridden for the better part of a week. After taking the in home test, she found out she was allergic to dairy. She is now on her way to living a normal life.

Now I am not a doctor nor am I saying that we "cured them". In fact that would be a felony (Thank you FDA). We simply detected the allergy and gave them the gastrointestinal support they needed to heal. Typically once the GI tract has healed itself; it has been found that the food can then be reintroduced with no further reactions!

The strange thing is that this type of test has been used by physicians for years with amazing success but it isn't promoted widely. This is because most doctors tend to focus on Type 1 allergies instead of the other 2.

Let's look at food allergies and sensitivities a little closer; shall we? In a typical type 1 the food antigens can trigger the mast cell mechanism at any point in their journey through the body. Lip, tongue, throat burning and swelling are most obvious symptoms of this. The antigen may not react in gastro intestinal tract but activate Type 1 responses in blood or target organs, especially lungs and connective tissue. The onset of "immediate reactions" may be delayed hours after eating offending foods. Major symptoms include: flushing, swelling, shortness of breath, fast heart rate, panic, pain, and confusion.

What happens when dealing with a type 3 or 4 reaction (hidden sensitivity) is quite different. In this type of reaction the antibodies bind directly to the food particles themselves as they enter the blood stream. Then they form different sizes of circulating immune complex. This complex is comprised of the allergens and the antibodies that reacted to it becoming bound together and then circulating in the blood stream. It is important to understand that in this case there is a delayed reaction of symptoms not seen with the Type 1 reaction. Also unlike Type 1 reactions, type 3 and 4 are usually from a food that you eat OFTEN and even CRAVE. In fact cravings are common as are withdrawal symptoms. The numbers here are huge! It is thought that nearly 60 to 80 million Americans suffer from this type of reaction.

What are the symptoms of type 3 & 4 reactions?

There are hundreds of them! (Hold on to your chair.) You know someone who is affected by this. Tinnitus, recurrent ear infections, asthma, dark circles under the eyes (allergic shiners also seen in children reacting to vaccines), chronic digestive problems (diarrhea, constipation and heartburn), spastic colon, migraine headaches, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel, fluctuations in blood sugar, joint and muscle pain, fluid retention, brain fog and or mental confusion, irritability, eczema and many others. In fact studies have shown that even (temporary) changes in your voice or hoarseness can take place as the result of these reactions! The good news is that they are reversible but a skin test will not detect their presence.

How do we end up with these reactions or sensitivities? Lack of breast feeding is one culprit. When breast feeding became unpopular asthma became epidemic. This is largely due to an immunoglobulin deficiency, as human immunoglobulin is not contained in cow's milk. Food sensitivities of all types are far more prominent in babies who were not breast fed. Let's think about that... When a baby is born it is meant for that baby to have mommy's breast milk. The intestine is somewhat porous. All of the foods going through the intestine are being exposed to the blood stream in a way does not take place after weaning, when porous elements of the intestine gradually begin to close. The food that passes through the intestine from that point forward is not directly exposed to the blood as it would be in earlier years. In fact many people who have wheat allergies were fed wheat based formulas when they were infants!! It is also important to note that when genetically modified soy was introduced into the UK, soy allergies skyrocketed by 50 percent and I suspect that many other GMOs are causing allergic reactions among the unsuspecting populace at large. See the GMO Trilogy for more information on the devastating effects of genetically modified food.

If you sit back and think or better yet, keep a mental note of this article, I am sure you will encounter someone you know who meets the criteria or has the symptoms mentioned above. I STRONGLY encourage you to let them see this information because it just might CHANGE THEIR LIFE! Stay tuned for next weeks' "Custom Health 4 You News" Hidden Food Allergies Part 2.

Until then...

Yours in health and wellness!

Tiffane

About the Author:
If you want to learn more about hidden food sensitivities and The in home test; The Allertest visit http://www.customhealth4you.com/Allertest.html Tiffane Coe has been healing herself naturally for the past 5 years! She has been free of prescription medications ever since.

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Help Against Migraine Headaches

Migraines are like headaches except for the fact that they are much more painful. They seem to hit us out of nowhere and out of the blue and some days we feel as if there is nothing in the world that can help us. It can begin behind our eyes, in our temples, or in the back of our heads. Wherever it starts the feeling is the same. It feels as if our heads have split open and loud noises and bright lights only make things worse.

The good thing is that migraines can managed and treated effectively. Those who have constant migraines should make an appointment with their healthcare physician. This physician will help to determine the symptoms, what is causing it, and how to treat it with positive results.

We have provided a list of steps that can help you to manage these migraines and to understand it better.

You must first understand and come to the realization that there is no cure for a migraine. That doesn’t mean that there is no hope to reduce the pain when it does come. There are treatments and programs that can ease the pain when it comes. This just means that you cannot stop a migraine from hitting you. Listen to everything your doctor tells you and be very open-minded about the different treatments.

Before you doctor can give you the right medications or treatment program they must first understand your medical history. Be honest and tell them everything they need to know. If you are undergoing certain therapies, using over the counter medications, or natural remedies are all important things for them to know.

Ask your doctor any questions that you might have on the treatment they have prescribed for your migraine and make sure you know everything that you have to do. There are different types of medications that have to be taken at certain times and you need to know when and how to take them to prevent an attack. Also make sure you know about the different side effects.

Make sure to follow up with your doctor. Schedule a doctor visit at the end of each current medical visit. Usually three months is sufficient enough time to wait.

By: Naomi West

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Doctone is your resource health guide. They do what they can to teach people about the different diseases, treatments, and health news.

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There Are Many Solid Cures For Headaches

Facts about headaches

There are many cures for headaches.  The relief and prevention of headaches can be obtained through a variety of medicines depending upon the origin of the pain.  There are headache pills which are taken with water, disintegrating pills which are taken without water, and both are taken by mouth.  In addition, subcutaneous injections (shots taken underneath the skin), nasal spray, and rectal suppositories are all methods for curing headaches.  You can let your doctor know which method of cure that you would prefer.  Antiepileptics, beta-blockers, antidepressants, and seretonergics are used to treat people who suffer from migraine headaches. 

There are various factors to be considered before a cure for a headache is prescribed.  It basically depends on the condition of the patient.  Some patients can be prescribed a medication for quick relief of their headache while others may experience nausea or drowsiness which has to be taken into consideration as well.  So the doctor may have to try a patient out on different medications before deciding what to prescribe for their headache.

As an extra measure to find cures for headaches which are plaguing you, be sure to take your medication as the doctor has prescribed.  Take no more or no less of a dosage than is prescribed.  Also make sure that the medicine has had a chance to work before giving up on it.  One other consideration is to stay away from things which are aggravating to you. 

Natural cures for headaches are very popular with some people.  Check with your doctor first and make sure that your headaches are not due to a serious condition.  These natural remedies are meant for everyday ordinary headaches.  For instance, your headaches may be caused by caffeine, or food such as certain cheeses or red wine.  Computer screen glare, or certain smells may even trigger a headache.  Naturally, in these cases you would simply have to try to avoid the cause.  Another cause for a headache could be dehydration.  Always try to manage to drink at least 8 glasses of water each day.

Other cures for headaches can be a relaxing warm bath, walking or other exercise, as well as acupuncture

, and acupressure.  You may be pleasantly surprised at how effective these methods can be.

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about the author

Matt D Murren owns and operates http://www.headache-relief-advice.com Cures For Headaches

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That Migraine May Mean More Than a Just a Headache

If you’ve ever had a migraine, you know the excruciating pain and nausea that comes with it. You may also know that migraines can become a debilitating health issue if you are prone to them. But perhaps your migraine isn’t simply a migraine. In fact, it may not be a migraine at all.

There are a number of symptoms that accompany migraines. Pain, nausea, vision problems, and more are par for the course. But if you simply think you have a migraine or have been told by doctors that this is what you have, and other things such as jaw, neck, and shoulder pain, or a clicking in the jaw when you chew or speak are part of your discomfort, you might have something called TMD.

TMJ and TMD

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is related to problems with the temopormandibular joint, the joint that allows the jaw to move. This in turn allows you to speak and eat. When your jaw is misaligned, you may find that your entire body aches and that you can’t move your jaw without hurting. TMD can take years to develop into a condition that affects your daily life, yet hundreds of thousands of Americans suffer with this believing that the pain is related to something else. And many may simply consider it a way of life since they’ve suffered for so long.

If your pain and discomfort has not been relieved through treatment with your physician, your next step may require a neuromuscular dentist. A neuromuscular dentist specializes in diagnosing and treating TMD. By looking at both the hard and soft tissues and your jaw’s alignment, a neuromuscular dentist is often your best hope at relieving or eliminating TMD symptoms altogether. These symptoms include:

· Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw

· Facial pain

· Jaw pain

· Headaches that feel like migraines

· Neck pain

· Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

· Shoulder pain

· Tight jaw muscles

Treatment

If you have been diagnosed with TMD, a neuromuscular dentist will discuss options with you. There are various ways to treat TMD, including orthotics, orthodontics, tooth restoration, and more. The neuromuscular dentist is able to relieve any spasms and muscle pain, stabilize your bite, and manage the long-term prospects of your bite using state-of-the-art technology, such as a TENS unit. A TENS unit tracks your bite and delivers relief to your jaw using electrodes.

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About the Author:

If you have suffered for years with jaw pain or migraine-like headaches with no relief, and you are in the Dallas, Forth Worth, Arlington, Plano, Irving, or Grapevine, Texas area, please contact experienced neuromuscular dentist Dr. Gary Alhadef.

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Feverfew, Butterbur and Pine Bark - Three Powerful and Effective Herbal Remedies For Migraines

When a person develops a migraine headache, the primary and immediate concern is relief from the incredible pain. All too often individuals in this situation grab a bottle and down one, two or three of the common over-the-counter headache medications to fix the issue. The problem is, that does not fix the issue. People who take 2-3 or more of these medications per week are at strong risk to become caught in a desperate rebound headache cycle, where they have near daily headaches of one degree or another.

There has got to be a better way to fight this modern day scourge on mankind. A person in such a situation has lost control of his or her life. They are slave to an evil taskmaster that will not allow them to do many of the things that they would like and not to enjoy so much of what life has to offer.

Through testing, three of the most effective herbal remedies for migraines are feverfew, butterbur and pine bark. Let's take a look at all three of these promising alternative treatments for migraine.

Feverfew

Feverfew comes from the same tribe of plants (asteraceae) as the daisy. Since the 1st century A.D., it has been used for the treatment of headache, stomachaches and fever. Feverfew has anti-inflammatory, stimulant, relaxant, decongestant and anti-coagulant properties.

Feverfew is mainly used for the treatment and prevention of frequent and serious migraine headaches. From the Natural Health (2007-03-01) we are told that "in a recent, well-designed clinical trial, 170 German patients took a placebo pill or an extract of feverfew for 16 weeks. Those taking Feverfew had significantly fewer migraines."

Feverfew should be taken daily as a preventative, rather than a treatment for migraines. Herbal experts recommend tapering off the dose if you are going to quit taking the herb.

Butterbur

Traditionally butterbur has been used to treat spasms in the respiratory and digestive tract. In addition, Butterbur is said to inhibit the production of histamine, which helps to keep air passages open. This may help to relieve allergic congestion and seasonal allergies.

Butterbur is very popular in Europe and becoming increasingly popular in America as a sound way to minimize neurological discomfort. The exact cause of this is still unclear but neurologically severe headaches may be caused by a number of biological factors. Some researchers believe that they stem from an imbalance in the central nervous system that encourages the release of blood-dilating peptides. This could result in inflammation of the brain's thin outer layer, the cerebral cortex. As pressure builds, blood flow becomes more restricted, potentially enhancing migraine headache symptoms. (Carle, R., Plant-based antiphlogistics and spasmolytics' (translated from German). Z Phytother. 1988; 9: 67-76).

Other physicians think that many commonly consumed food items trigger migraines or that they could be hereditary. A 12 week clinical study showed that the active compounds in butterbur can prevent peptidoleukotriene biosynthesis, which is an inflammatory process that has been linked to the onset of mgraines. (Bickel D, Roder T, Bestmann, J. Identification and characterization of inhibitors of peptide-leukotriene-synthesis from Petasites hybridus. Plant Medica. 1994; 60:31-322).

Also of note is the writing 'Petasites Hybridus Root (Butterbur) is an effective prevention for migraine" by Lipton, Einhaupl and Gobel (Neurology, 2004; 2240-4).

One thing to note about butterbur is that the plant contains liver toxins called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). So it is important to choose a formula that is PA free.

Pine Bark

Dr. Sirichai Chayasirisobhon of Kaiser Permanente Medical Center set out to address the question of whether free radical damage can contribute to migraine headaches. ("Use of a Pine Bark Extract and Antioxidant Vitamin Combination Product as Therapy for Medication", Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, Vol 46, No. 5, May 2006) He chose a dozen patients who had a long-term history of migraines with little to no success with various drugs (antidepressants, beta-blockers and anticonvulsants).

At the start of the study, subjects completed a questionnaire which was called the migraine disability assessment (MIDAS). The MIDAS was designed to assess the impact of migraine flare-ups on activities at home, work and while interacting with friends and family. This is a great way to start an unbiased test, so that the results before the test are well documented and there can be no dispute.

For the three month study period, each subject was given daily supplements that contained 600 mg of vitamin C, 300 IU of vitamin E and 1,200 mg of a pine bark extract. Subjects were allowed to continue using the medications they were currently taking.

Upon the end of the trial period the subjects completed a seconds MIDAS questionnaire. Their responses indicated a significant improvement.

The overall MIDAS scored improvement was more than 50%.

The average number of migraine days was reduced from 44 days in the three months prior to the trial, to 26 days during the trial.

The average migraine severity score (which some will argue is the most important factor) was reduced from 7.5 (out of 10) to 5.5

One subject dropped out of the trial. Of the remaining 11, two reported no change in frequency, duration or severity. Among the other nine, the overall MIDAS score improvement was almost 68%.

These three herbal remedies for migraines have all shown very good results when tested as alternative treatments for migraine headaches. If you suffer from headaches of these three appear to be well worth a try. It is possible that people in this country need to take a new approach toward migraine headache relief. Herbal remedies may be the answer.

Visit the Herbal Remedies for Migraine Headaches website for more information on herbal remedies for migraine headaches and great product offers. There are ways to help defeat the battle with migraines or headaches in general that many of us are facing.

About the Author:
The author of this article suffered from migraime headaches for 40 years and was constantly led down a dead end when seeking help. Through research, herbal and homeopathic remedies he has found alternative treatments for migraine headaches. Tom Thorne Herbal Remedies for Migraine Headaches

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Foods which are known to Trigger Headaches

Many of us suffer from headaches. Some people are lucky enough to experience only one or two per month, while others have to deal with the throbbing pain a couple times per week. However, no matter how many headaches you get a month, getting rid of them all together seems like a great idea. There have been numerous studies which suggest that certain foods which we consume can trigger migraines. Therefore, by eliminating or reducing the intake of these foods, we are simultaneously reducing or eliminating our chances of developing headaches.

One of the headache triggering foods is aged cheese. Aged cheese, as well as other foods which contain tyramine, has proven to cause headaches in a lot of people. Tyramine, a substance that is found naturally in some foods, is formed during the breakdown of protein in foods as they age. Some of the cheeses and other foods containing tyramine include: blue cheeses, brie, cheddar, stilton, feta, gorgonzola, mozzarella, muenster, parmesan, swiss, processed cheese, certain beans (fava, broad, garbanzo, lima, pinto), certain meats (ages, canned, cured, processed), onions, olives, pickles, avocados, raisins, canned soups, and nuts.

Another headache triggering substance is alcohol. When we drink alcohol the blood flow to our brain increases resulting in a headache. Some of the alcoholic beverages which encourage head pains include red wine, beer, whiskey, and champagne. Food additives are also known to cause headaches in certain people. Food preservatives, such as nitrates and nitrites, dilate blood vessels thus resulting in head pain. And the last but certainly not least of the vicious triggers are cold foods. Cold foods are especially harmful if we are overheated from exercise or hot temperature. So if you suffer from a lot of headaches, try to avoid some of these common triggers.

By: skindeep13

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Lyla Feldman writes health articles about fitness and nutrition.
Some of her favorite passions include studying the medicinal benefits of herbal remedies, colon cleansing and
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Migraine Headaches - The Most Commonly Used Nutritional Supplements For Migraine Prevention

Migraine headaches put a heavy load on society. According to the National Headache Foundation, migraine headaches affect more than 28 million Americans and cost society over $13 billion each year. That is just the tip of the iceberg though. Migraines frequently precipitate depression, which is three times as frequent among migraine sufferers than non-headache victims (Fasmer, O.B., The Prevalence of migraine in patients with bipolar and unipolar affective disorders. Cephalalgia, 2001. 21(9): p.894-899). And don't forget about the countless number of people whose quality of life has been severely damaged by headaches.

Traditional treatment methods are just not working without side-effects. We need to examine alternative treatments for migraines. We need to attack headaches at the root, we need to stop treating the effect and eliminate the causes of headaches. For years the common cry has been that headaches were caused by stress. From mine and others experiences as well we can agree that stress can be a cause, but it is hardly the only cause. It goes much deeper and is much more complicated than a simple platitude like that. Let's take a look at some of the most common and promising vitamins for headaches, supplements for migraines, and alternative treatments for migraines. Riboflavin Riboflavin is also known as Vitamin B-2. It plays a key role in maintaining health in humans and animals. It is yellow or yellow-orange in color. In addition to being used as a food coloring it is also used to fortify foods such as baby-foods, breakfast cereal, pastas, processed cheese, fruit drinks and sauces. It is also widely used in vitamin supplements.

For over 30 years Riboflavin has been used as a part of the phototherapy treatment of neonatal jaundice. It has recently been used in a new treatment to slow or stop the progression of the corneal disorder keratoconus (corneal collagen crosslinking). There have been studies conducted on riboflavin and its affects on headaches. In both a European and American study riboflavin was shown to effectively treat migraines at a dose of 400 mg per day. (European study: C. Boehnke, High-dose riboflabin treatment is efficacious in migraine prophylaxis: an open study in a tertiary care center. Eur J Neurol, 2004, 11(7): p. 175-7. American study: A.J. Yee, Effectiveness of high-dose riboflavin in migraine prophylaxis, Neurology, 1999, 52(2): p. 431-2)

In a separate study performed by Sandor, Afra, Ambrosini and Shoenen riboflavin has shown that when combined with beta-blockers it may be a useful treatment of migraine headaches. (Phophylactic treatment of migraine with beta-blockers and riboflavin: different effects on the intensity dependence of auditory evoked cortical potentials. Headache,. 2000, Jan). In an open-label trial (no placebo control group), as reported by the Mother Earth News (MEN) web site (Natural Health/2007-03-01/Natural-Headache-Remedies), 400 mg a day for six months cut migraine headache frequency in half and decreased medication use. MEN goes on to say that "another study showed that three months of riboflavin led to a 50 percent improvement in almost 60 percent of the volunteers, versus a 15 percent improvement over the people taking a dummy pill." Coenzyme Q 10 (CoQ10) First identified in 1957, Coenzyme Q 10 is also known as "Ubiquinone" because it is found everywhere in the body. The highest amounts are in the heart, liver and pancreas. The lowest amounts are in the lungs.

The first applications for CoQ10 were in 1961, when it was found that cancer patients were deficient in the enzyme. Research has shown CoQ10 to be a very versatile supplement for a number of other conditions such as heart disease and migraines. Recent studies have also shown that CoQ10 may help in the treatment of Alzheimer Disease (X.L. Wang, Co-supplementation with vitamine E and coenzyme Q10 reduces circulating markers of inflammation in baboons, Am J Clin Nutrition, 2004. 80(3): p. 649-55). Reports on CoQ10 and migraines have been very positive. From an article in the April, 2002 issue of the journal of the International Headache Society, Cephalalgia, encouraging results have been reported from an open label trial of CoQ10 as a Migraine preventative.

The article "Open label trial coenzyme Q10 as a migraine preventive" by Rozen, Oshinsky, Gebeline, Bradley, Young, Shechter and Silberstib from Cephalalgia 22 (2) p. 137-141 we are told "At present there are very few efficacious migraine preventatives and fewer without significant side-effects... Migraine can be a disabling disorder and migraine preventives have been shown to not only reduce headache frequency, intensity and duration but also to improve quality of life. Coenzyme Q10 is a naturally occurring substance and essential element of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. It has been the most extensively studied agent for the treatment of mitochondrial disorders and has been shown to have almost no identifiable side-effects in humans. There has been a recent interest in the role that mitochondria may play in migraine pathogenesis...The objective of this investigation is to assess the efficacy of coenzyme Q10 as a preventative treatment for migraine." The dosage used in the study was 150 mg of CoQ10 daily. Key points from the trial included:

• 61.3% of the patients in the trial achieved at least 1 50% reduction in frequency of Migraine attacks by the end of the four-month trial.
• It took time to achieve optimum results. Data from the study suggests that it takes 4-12 weeks to achieve more than 50% reduction.
• Coenzyme Q10 is effective for both migraine with aura (classic migraine) as well as migraine without aura (common migraine).

Magnesium Magnesium is a mineral that is used for many purposes. The hsbaltimore, Health Series Institue e-Alert (September 14, 2004) website informs us a good intake of magnesium may promote bone flexibility, help prevent type 2 diabetes and heart disease.Recent studies show that magnesium is also essential for keeping your teeth healthy. There have also been studies on a relationship between magnesium and headaches. A study by A. Trauninger (Oral magnesium load test in patients with migraine, Headache, 2002, 42(2): 0, 114-9) showed magnesium deficiencies to be common in those who suffer from migraines. Another study by A. Bianchi (Vitamin Horm, 2004, 69: p. 297-312) has found sufficient, though not definitive, evidence of magnesium's ability to help treat migraines. Current recommendations are to take 500-1000 mg of magnesium per day. The Bottom Line The three natural remedies for migraine headache discussed here all have shown promising results as an affective natural headache remedy. When looking at alternative treatments for migraines, these three appear to be at the top of charts. But the two biggest advantages alternative treatments have over prescription medications is their lack of side effects, and the fact that you are not going to go broke trying these supplements for migraines. These points plus the positive test results shown should be reason to include nutritional supplementation to help treat migraines.

For more information on natural supplements, alternative treatments for migraines and a great selection of vitamin products visit the Feeling Outstanding Natural Supplements web site.

Tom Thorne

http://www.FeelingOutstanding.com

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Migraines and Milk

The fact that migraines can be triggered by certain foods or drinks has long been accepted. However, what is not as well-known is the wide-range of foods implicated; often including products normally thought to be "good for us". This article looks at a small number of the studies suggesting that milk is one such trigger.

Migraine sufferers should probably avoid caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea or artificially sweetened drinks such as diet cola, as these are amongst dozens of foods which provoke a reaction in migraine sufferers. To add to this potential minefield, even milk is a high risk food, ranking near the top of the allergy list, and according to a study published in the Lancet in 1979, has been linked to migraines(1)

The best way to learn what foods are causing allergic reactions is to go on a strict diet using only a few foods that are at the bottom of the reactive spectrum (such as lamb or pears). After a period of five days, suspected triggers can be introduced one per day, and any adverse effects can be noted. Obviously, quite apart from the inconvenience and misery of such a restricted regime, it would be extremely unwise to continue the "few foods" diet for longer than five days as serious nutrient deficiencies would arise.

A study of migraines and non-seasonal asthma was done on a group of 48 patients in 1983. The patients were put on a diet which strictly precluded any cows' milk protein. All patients showed laboratory evidence of lactase deficiency, and out of the 48, 33 showed marked improvement following the omission of cows' milk from the diet(2). Lactase(3) is an enzyme that breaks down the milk sugar lactose into glucose and galactose. Persons with a deficiency of lactase in the gut can develop abdominal cramping and diarrhea after ingesting milk products. It appears that migraine could be added to these better-known side-effects.

There are multiple reports of people having severe migraines which ended abruptly when milk was cut from the diet. One faction claims that it is the hormones used in dairy production, and encourages a move to all organic products.

Another faction feels that it is not the milk itself that is causing the problem, but the freshness of the product and the amount of bacteria it contains. This is possibly borne out by a study done on milk intolerance and microbe-containing dairy foods, as it links back into the lactase deficiency(4).

An antibacterial milk product was patented for use by patients with menstrual migraines, supporting the idea that for many, the bacteria in the milk is actually the trigger. This development combined with the previously mentioned lactase deficiency might make an antibacterial milk solution a sensible approach(5).

One particular case study within the patent application(5) reports that a patient with severe menstrual symptoms including debilitating migraine, took two 500 mg capsules of the supplement twice daily over four months, resulting a cessation of migraines and a noticeable decrease of other symptoms. When she discontinued use of the product her symptoms returned, and they reduced again when she restarted using it.

This is a supplement marketed to decrease joint pain and stiffness, but it is claimed that it can address all types of pain, including headaches. It is not suitable for use prior to, or during, pregnancy, or by those who are lactose (milk sugar) intolerant. Understandably, I cannot endorse this product personally, without first trying it. However, as it is an inexpensive product to purchase, and available in health shops, readers benefit from a trial, but must remember the previous warnings.

The fact remains, milk is a trigger for some migraine sufferers, and, by eliminating it from an intolerant person's diet, relief can be almost immediate, only returning with the reintroduction of dairy products to their diet. With so many other dietary sources of calcium available, a trial period of excluding dairy products is a very effective exercise.

References:

(1) Grant ECG; Food, Allergies and Migraine; Lancet, May 5 1979;966-969

(2) Isr J Med Sci. 1983 Sep ;19 (P,S,G,E,B) D Ratner, E Shoshani, B Dubnov

(3) http://www.medterms.com/

(4) Savaiano DA, Levitt MD --J Dairy Sci 1987 Feb;70(2):397-406

(5) US Patent 6770280 Treatment of menorrhagia, hypermenorrhea

, dysmenorrhea and menstrual migraines by the administration of an antibacterial milk product

Research by Grace-Alexander

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about the author

With a dissertation topic in migraine, and a qualification from the famous Institute for Optimum Nutrition in London, during 2000, Joy Healey is well qualified to offer her e.book, full of further recommendations to treat and prevent migraine using natural, alternatives and approaches. Visit: http://www.natural-migraine-alternativescom to download your copy

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Understanding Hormonal Headaches

It is common for lots of women to experience hormonal headaches. They can be very painful and deplete the body of much needed energy. Hormonal headaches can affect women of all ages, but it is more likely to occur in women who are at the stage of starting the menopause.

They are thought to be caused by hormonal changes that affect the body, most likely due to the drop of estrogen levels. The headaches can be more frequent at times such as ovulation, usually just before or after. There are other possible causes for hormonal headaches.

The symptoms of a hormonal headache can be likened to those of a migraine. There is usually throbbing pain on one side of the head. The sufferer may also experience vomiting or feeling nauseous, as well as sensitiveness to bright light and deafening noise.

Many people first suffer from hormonal headaches as an adolescent; this is attributed to the drop in estrogen and serotonin levels at this time of life. Women may also suffer from hormonal headaches when the menopause is just starting, just before their monthly menstrual cycle or if they are on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).

There are some things that hormonal headache sufferers can do to try and minimise the effects of these headaches. It may be worth trying to track when your ovulation time occurs every month (similar to the charting that couples use when trying to conceive). This may help you to know when the headaches are likely to start and finish. Starting on a course of oral contraception is also an effective method for some women.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and making changes to certain habits may help to reduce or eliminate the chances of having hormonal headaches. Daily exercise such as running or an aerobics workout will keep you strong and healthy. Pilates and yoga are also good too as they can strengthen your muscles and tone your body.

Having a healthy diet will contribute immensely to beating and deterring hormonal headaches. Avoid foods that are processed, particularly meats. Cut out any food with additives or those that contain Monosodium Glutamate (MSG). It is recommended that you try and drink between 6 and 8 glasses of water daily.

Alcohol, caffeine and sugar may be triggers associated with hormonal headaches so these are best avoided. Try not to snack during the day and then have a big evening meal. Eat between 5 and 6 small meals throughout the day; this will help to keep your blood sugar levels stable and hopefully deter those headaches from appearing.

If the headache becomes quite serious then it is more likely that it will be classed as a hormonal migraine. It is possible that your medical doctor can prescribe NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents) to help with the pain of this condition.

Any woman who has had a hormonal headache knows how painful it is. Following the above guidance will help to eliminate stress and reduce the chances of a hormonal headache forming.

There's no need for you to suffer with chronic headaches! If you suffer from headache pain, please visit http://www.headachecausesandtreatments.com where you can learn more about different types of headaches including hormone headaches and find out what causes them as well as how to treat them.

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Headaches Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Article reveals that there are many different types of headaches that have many different symptoms.

Headaches are a common complaint am9ng many, however, the causes for headaches do vary from person to person. The severity of the pain will also differ.

Tension headaches are probably the most common type. They are usually caused by tension in the muscles in the neck, shoulders and face. Migraines are much more severe, and affect around 6% of men and 13% of women. Such headaches are commonly more intense and might linger for longer periods of time compared to tension headaches. Cluster headaches are also quite severe, and sometimes last for as much as several weeks.

Tension headaches are increasing common and almost everybody has had one some time or other. They usually only last for a short period of time, and are characterized by pain around the eyes and temples. The area of discomfort is in part due to the muscle that is feeling the strain. Although it is usually in the above areas, the pain can appear anywhere above the neck.

Watery eyes and runny nose are often symptoms that accompany a tension headache. Red eyes can also occur as the pain works it's way down from the eyebrows. Tension headaches are different from common headaches as they might not trigger off noise and photo-sensitivity. This is more common to migraine headaches.

Anyone who has ever suffered from a migraine knows that they are totally unrelated to tension headaches. To a large extent, hereditary genes are responsible for the onset of this sort of headache and other factors are still not clearly documented. There are relatively useful treatments for migraines but in most cases, migraine sufferers would have to deal with it for the rest of their lives.

Migraines are characterized by intense, throbbing pain around the eyes and temples. It is common for the pain to trouble one side before migrating to the other temple. The pain is so severe that it often seems to be spreading to other parts of the head. Migraines can also be triggered by the eyes having blood vessels that have become inflammed.

Secondary headaches are severe headaches that are associated with some already existing medical condition. Headaches can be caused by a tumor in the brain as well.

There are other types of signs that are linked to the onset of migraines. Extreme sensitivity to sound and light are common. Such kinds of discomfort can last from any time between a few hours or even up to a week. Feeling tired and drained or having desires for sweet treats are symptoms that a migraine is about to trouble you.

The pain is sometimes so intense that it is accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Being photosensitive as well as sensitive to noise, having clammy palms and feet or diarrhea are usual signs. These episodes can be brought on by something as simple as walking up the stairs.

Cluster headaches tend to have a patten of discomfort. The duration of the episode is not long, but the episodes return without fail on a daily basis. Sometimes this pattern continues for as much as a month or more. Once this period passes

, the headaches might even disappear for months on end before it returns. This pattern is what separates cluster headaches from migraines. The type and severity of the pain is similar in both cases.

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about the author

Moses Wright is a health conscious webmaster and he started this website to help people learn more about Diagnosing Headaches and Triptans Migraines Treatment.

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A Lesser Known Migraine Trigger

Oranges are good for you - except when they are not! And if you are a migraine sufferer, oranges and other citrus fruits are well worth excluding on a trial basis, as they have been found to cause migraine in some people.

The idea that oranges are considered a possible trigger for migraine has surprised many of us, as orange juice is usually considered to be beneficial in our diet

Not if you are sensitive to citrus. The citrus group of foods, which includes fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit, is a known allergen. Additionally, a lot of commercial orange juice is squeezed with the rind on, subsequently bruising it and releasing synephrine, a vasoconstrictor.

There have been links between migraine headaches and synephrine as well as related vasoconstrictors, so it makes sense that this could be a trigger. Many patients found that freshly squeezed orange juice made at home had no adverse effect.

A 2004 study found that: "In migraine patients, plasma levels of octopamine and synephrine were higher compared with controls, although in migraine with aura, the difference was not significant".(1)

Synephrine is a stimulant that raises blood pressure, which can also cause migraines. The theory being that migraine sufferers with a citrus allergy can gain relief from a low dosage of daily blood pressure medication.

Citrus fruits also cause magnesium deficiency in some patients, and magnesium deficiency has been linked to migraine without aura. In a study where thirty migraine patients were treated with magnesium versus ten treated with placebo, the number of patients experiencing relief was so high that the possibility of the test results being coincidental was less than a 1 in 1000 chance.(2) The magnesium was administered as a magnesium citrate supplement, 600mg per day, orally. Patients were assessed by computerized tomography before and after the three month treatment period.

Citrus fruits also contain histamine, another suspect in food related allergies. A study at Texas Tech in El Paso TX revealed a correlation between high histamine levels and migraine attacks in susceptible persons. Antihistamines would seem to be a logical choice for treatment!(3)

An unhappy relationship between hypoglycemia and migraine can be heightened by drinking of orange juice, lemonade or other citrus juice in an attempt to raise the blood sugar - the orange juice can actually increase the migraine pain and the blood sugar level is blamed instead. This justifies the importance of maintaining a food diary and testing for food allergies.(4)

One woman related how she had taken migraine medication daily for years, washing it down with an 8 oz glass of orange juice each morning. Finally, when her sons were diagnosed, it became apparent that by giving them juice daily, she had simply been stimulating the cycle of migraines. Incidentally, orange flavored drinks such as Tang and Sunny D also contain migraine triggering substances similar to the natural fruits, so if citrus is a problem for you, avoid them as well!

Elimination of citrus is much simpler than many other migraine trigger foods, and is relatively easy to live without. For those with severe food intolerance migraines, living without orange juice, lemonade and key lime pie may be a small price to pay.

Sources:

(1) pubmed15159465.do, Cure Hunter, 05/25/2004

(2) Magnesium Research, Jun 2008;21(2):101-8. PMID: 18705538, by Koseoglu E, Talaslioglu A, Gonul AS, Kula M. Erciyes University, Medicine Faculty, Neurology Department, Kayseri, Turkey

(3) Mansfield LE , Journal of Allergy & Clinical Immunology. 86(4 Pt 2):673-6, 1990 Oct.

(4) Leira R, Rodriguez R

, Revista de Neurologia 1996 May;24(129):534-8

Research by Grace-Alexander

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about the author

An e.book packed with further information and recommendations on the treatment and prevention of migraine can be obtained from: http://www.natural-migraine-alternatives.com . Additionally, more information can be obtained from a blog at ://natural-migraine-alternatives.blogspot.com/

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Exercise, Food & Migraines, The Effect on Weight Loss & Diets

I've suffered from migraines for many years and I have to be reasonably careful about what I do or don't do in order to prevent an attack. For instance if I'm in a meeting, I have to sit with my back to the window otherwise the glare of the sun against the window can trigger an attack. I'm teetotal because drinking alcohol is a sure-fire way to make me ill. I don't eat bananas, I avoid excessively salty food, I try to ensure that I get between 7 to 8 hours sleep a night .... the list goes on and on.

Exercise and Migraines

One of the main things, however, that triggers a migraine is exercise - but of course I can't avoid doing that! It's worse in the summer because it's hot and the sunlight is very bright. We went for a long walk with the dog yesterday evening and I was ok for the first hour. But then we started walking with the sun in our eyes, and within a few minutes I knew that an attack was iminent. By the time I got home, my head was hurting, my eyes were hurting, my chest felt tight and I was sensitive to smells.

Nevertheless, I made dinner. What I'd rather do when I have a migraine is sit down, ignore everyone and everything, and sleep. However, I get migraines so frequently that I would just be a recluse! Instead I rely on my prescription migraine tablets, which are a god-send. They are evil little things: they increase your risk of heart attack and stroke and the side-effects are quite severe, but they do stop an attack if I take one soon after I feel it coming on.

Food and Migraines

So I took a tablet and carried on with my evening. However when the headache is particularly bad, the tablet takes longer to work and the side-effects are stronger - and I get an overwhelming craving for something sweet. It's hard to explain it - my body almost cries out for it. We don't buy chocolate or sweets, so Marc made me toast with jam. Within 5 minutes, I felt much better, but of course this isn't great for trying to lose weight! But it's yet another reason why I don't lose weight despite the fact that I generally eat well and do a moderate amount of exercise every day.

Migraine 'Cures'

As an aside, I have been to the doctor's numerous times to find out what I can do about my migraines. Needless to say, all that is offered is more tablets. In fact, I was finally referred to a headache specialist a while ago. Great, I thought - someone is finally going to help me! I went in with high hopes and a long list of triggers, but the specialist wasn't interested. All he did was suggest that I take a high dose of beta blockers every day, a tablet for (I think) reducing blood pressure that they've found also works for migraine sufferers. That taking beta blockers isn't recommended for women of child bearing age didn't seem to be a concern for the specialist, which I am still astounded by. Of course, I threw the prescription away and cancelled my follow up appointment.

You can read our original article at http://www.watchingusloseweight.com - Exercise, Food & Migraines, The effect on weight loss & diets.

To view our blog about losing weight and how we are trying to do it visit http://www.watchingusloseweight.com Simply losing weight through diet control and exercise.

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Natural Treatment of Headaches

This article concerns "primary" headaches, which refers to those that are not caused by a basic medical condition. Secondary headaches, the result of other conditions, could be a signal of serious problems. Any headache that is frequent, severe or followed by any other symptoms ought to be checked out by a physician. If you’re not sure whether your headaches necessitate a visit to the doctor, you should go just to be sure.

Headache treatments began from the time humans first began to dabble in the medicinal arts. Many kinds of procedures, including home remedies and health supplements for the treatment of headaches, have been tried for centuries. The earliest known surgical procedure is thought to have been an attempt at headache treatment. This procedure became popular in the Middle Ages (along with comparably credible treatment such as leeches, humor balancing and flogging). This surgical procedure, called trepanning or trephining, involved digging a large hole in the head, which was thought to relieve the pressure causing the headache(http://www.mitamins.com/disease/Headache.html).

Since then, science has come a long way though our knowledge of the brain, but methods of treating headaches are not always successful. Though there are plenty of drugs, health supplements and natural remedies for the treatment of headaches, the causes of headaches are still largely unknown.

Here we are referring to primary headaches, or those that are not caused by a basic medical condition. Secondary headaches can be signals of serious problems, thus any headache that is frequent, severe or followed by any other symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea sensitivity to light, dizziness, slurred speech etc) ought to be checked out by a physician. If you are unsure of whether your headaches require a trip to the doctor, take one there anyway.

The medical world has divided headaches into a lot of different categories. Though you may have your own expletive-laden terms, we will split headaches into two types for our purposes, and give some suggestions for supplements and natural solutions that may help alleviate and treat headache pain.

Tension headaches - These are the most ordinary and are usually caused by tension in the muscle of the scalp or neck. Poor posture, repetitive actions or overuse of the jaw muscles can all lead to excess strain, causing mild to moderate pain.

The best remedy for tension headaches is relaxation, and a hot bath or a cold pack on the neck can work. Slow and deep breathing is a good way to alleviate pain and relieve headaches(http://www.mitamins.com/disease/Headache.html) as well.

Natural herbal health supplements for headaches(http://www.mitamins.com/disease/Headache.html) including chamomile, peppermint oil and lavender can all failitate the relaxation process and relieve headaches. Additionally, health supplements for headaches such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Pantothenic Acid play an important part in supporting functions in the head. Calcium and Magnesium can alleviate muscle tension. If you suspect you have been grinding your teeth throughout the night, supplements for headaches such as passionflower, hops and valerian may be effective in ensuring a headache-free, peaceful night's sleep.

Vasular headaches - This category includes migraine headaches, flu headaches, cluster headaches and premenstrual headaches. This type of headache is caused by dilation of the blood vessels around the head. It gets worse during physical activity, and some episodes can go on for days.

Besides pharmaceutical options, there are also some natural herbal health supplements known to be effective in the prevention and treatment of vascular headaches including: Feverfew, which can alleviate the inflammation in the brain; White Willow, a kind of natural analgesic; and Ginkgo Biloba which assists in maintaining peripheral circulation to the brain (although check with your doctor as some people's migraines become worse after using gingko biloba). It is important to find out the reason for your headache symptoms and either avoid the cause (such as red wine

, aged cheese and tyramine-containing foods) or be prepared at the onset of certain conditions ( such as menstruation or bouts of flu).

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Author Bio:

Mitamins team

bd@mitamins.com

Headache - Find Authoritative Natural Treatment Information, Plus Vitamins and Nutritional Supplements for Supporting Headache Treatment, Symptoms, Causes.

Natural Supplemenmt for Headache(http://www.mitamins.com/disease/Headache.html)

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The Stabbing Pain of Ice Pick Headaches

Facts about headaches

There are many people out there today who may experience serious headaches that involve sudden, quick pain in your head that feels as if someone is actually stabbing you in the head.  These headaches tend to just come seemingly out of nowhere, and the results can appear quite frightening to those who get these pains.  If you have had these pain symptoms, you are one of the many who suffer from what are known as ice pick headaches.  Understanding these headache pains is an important step on the road to figuring out how to address your condition.

Those who are likely suffering from ice pick headaches have sometimes told tales of being awakened at night to these sharp, stabbing jolts that can last from a few seconds to about 30 seconds.  You could get these pains anywhere on your head – but the most common description of an ice pick is pain near the temple or your eye.  At times, you may also experience these pains around the ear, as well.  These pains can travel all over your head; in other cases, you might only get them on one area of your head on the occasions when you have the condition appear.

There appears to be no particular underlying cause, and is often associated with migraine sufferers.  This does not mean these pains come with the migraine – in fact, only 40% of those with migraines may suffer from this affliction…and the stabbing pains take place at separate times from any migraine being suffered.  Getting help for these headaches is pretty tricky considering the fact that they are often so brief that by the time you attempt treatment, the ice pick has faded.  Still, when treatment is applied, it usually is something such as indomethacin, which is an NSAID, and should be taken with caution and the full knowledge of side effects.

One other thing to consider:  Even if you think you might have these headaches, be sure to document them and see a doctor.  It may turn out you have something else, and it’s possible that something could be a sign of serious problems.

Ice pick headaches can be sharp and scary – but if those are what you’re going through

, they won’t do you any damage.

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Are Your Headaches the Result of a Jaw Problem?

 

Many Americans suffer from chronic migraine headaches. Frequently, they are forced to endure the debilitating pain of these headaches without relief for years and years. What most people don’t realize is that these headaches might be brought on by a jaw problem.

What are TMJ Disorders?

TMJ disorders (TMD) occur when your temporomandibular joint is out of alignment. The temporomandibular joint connects your lower jaw to your skull. It enables the jaw to function properly.

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, approximately 5-15% of Americans suffer from TMD. These disorders are more common in women than men. Most of the cases of TMD occur in women ages 30-50.

Frequently, it is difficult to determine the exact cause of TMD. However, some of the most common causes include:

· Arthritis

· Grinding your teeth at night

· Dislocation of the disk between the jawbone and jaw socket

People suffering from TMD often exhibit many symptoms. Some of these include:

· Jaw pain

· Ear pain

· Problems chewing

· Facial pain

· Locking jaw

· Headaches

· Migraines

· Clicking or popping in your jaw

· Uneven bite

Who Should Treat My TMJ Disorder?

If you are suffering from TMD, you need to visit a neuromuscular dentist. These dentists specialize in realigning your jaw.

Your neuromuscular dentist should do several things on your initial visit. He should go over your medical history. He should also feel your jaw as you open and close it, listening for clicking or popping noises. He should check for proper range of motion in your jaw and irregularities in your bite. He will also examine your teeth for signs of regular grinding, and identify areas of pain around your jaw.

Treatment Options

Every once in awhile, your symptoms will clear up on their own. However, if your pain persists over time, you have several options.

TMD can be treated with a variety of medications, including:

· NSAIDs – over-the-counter pain medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen (these are frequently not strong enough to relieve the pain)

· Tricyclic antidepressants

· Muscle relaxants – these can be very effective, but are addictive and should only be taken for a short period of time

· Corticosteroid drugs – these are injected into the joint space and are very effective

Several devices can also provide you with relief from your symptoms and correct the problem causing your TMD. Some of these include:

· Bite guard – wear it at night to prevent grinding your teeth

· Orthotic – a device worn over your teeth to correct your bite

If these treatments don’t work, surgery might be necessary.

Stress can also contribute to TMD. When you are highly stressed, you are more likely to grind your teeth at night. Sometimes, stress management techniques can help cure your symptoms. Some good stress management techniques include deep breathing, muscle relaxation, meditation, and yoga.

About the Author:

If you live in the Dallas, Texas area and think you might be suffering from TMD, please visit the website of Smile ‘n Share It. Dr. Ragnell is very experienced in the field of neuromuscular dentistry and can help solve your TMD problems.

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Does Aspartame Trigger Migraine? No, Says FDA

There is much controversy as to whether aspartame can cause migraine headaches. Here we summarize the reasons why some scientists conclude that it is a harmless substance in humans. A further article will look at the alternative view.

Controversy surrounding aspartame continues, as it is widely believed this substance triggers headaches. "The most researched food additive ever approved," is how the FDA respond to concerns.

While there have been multiple reports of users experiencing sudden and severe onset of migraine headaches after using of aspartame, studies done by various institutions would seem to indicate the link is not causal. The FDA says they have received the results of over 100 clinical trials and doxological studies, and upon review they have concluded that aspartame is safe for ingestion by the human population.

The search for a new type of artificial sweetener came in the late 1970s, after concerns were raised about the safety of saccharin, the original artificial sugar marketed under the name Sweet 'n Low. Saccharin was placed on the anticipated carcinogens list and remains on that list as it is known to cause cancer in animals; despite this it remains a highly popular sweetener.

Aspartame, marketed under such brand names as Equal and NutraSweet, was approved by the FDA in 1981, and is present in many diet drinks, foods and gum as well as being marketed heavily as a tabletop sweetener.

Aspartame is considered to be a helpful tool for those on diet programs, as it can be used to cut out sugars from the diet. It is an extremely low calorie food, and has been a boon to calorie counters across the globe.

In the past decade, many reports have been made by aspartame users concerning adverse effects, particularly in the case of migraine headaches. An elaborate study was conducted at Duke University Medical center with a patient subset consisting of people who claimed that aspartame caused them to have serious headaches whenever they used it.

Dr Susan Schiffman carried out the study; with Monsanto/NutraSweet making a contribution to the costs. NutraSweet, you will recall, is a brand name under which aspartame is marketed. The study consisted of 40 subjects who complained of aspartame-related headaches.

Some subjects of the study were dosed with a 30mg/kg bw on days three and five of the double blind study. Others received a placebo. Of the volunteers who participated in the study, 35% who consumed aspartame developed headaches, but 45% in the placebo group developed headaches.

The study has often been criticized for its short term and less than optimal conditions, but the researchers argue that the conditions met CDC guidelines, and the results were valid.

These results of the study, which were published in the New England Journal of Medicine, claimed that no correlation whatsoever existed between consumption of aspartame and migraine headaches (1).

Allegations that aspartame does indeed cause migraines continue to circulate across the internet. Over 200 studies have been done to determine the safety of aspartame and its relationship to everything from lymphoma to epilepsy. The FDA maintains it is perfectly safe (2).

The European Food Safety Administration published a review stating that aspartame had indeed caused lymphoma in laboratory rats, but since no other studies had shown similar results, concluded their study was faulty and declined to raise any concerns about aspartame (3).

The US National Cancer Institute evaluated nearly half a million 50 - 69 year old men and women and found no correlation between aspartame consumption and lymphoma, leukemia or brain tumors over a five year period (4).

The Scientific Committee on Food did an exhaustive review of more than 500 papers on the subject of aspartame and came to the conclusion that concerns about aspartame causing any adverse reaction were unfounded (5).

Proponents of the use of aspartame have raised concerns that the 'myth of aspartame headaches' can cause people to overlook severe medical problems and that blaming aspartame for migraines can endanger those with more serious health issues. Sufferers of frequent headaches or migraine should always consult their medical practitioner, irrespective of what they perceive the cause to be.

Those with migraines who stop taking aspartame sweetened beverages and foods and experience a cessation of symptoms are said by the medical community to be experiencing a form of ingrained reaction - they believe strongly that the aspartame is the cause of their symptoms, so the absence of aspartame causes the pain to cease.

This is also expected to work the other way - that if they believe drinking an aspartame sweetened beverage will give them a headache, they will proceed to develop one - a theory upheld by the results of the placebo group in the Duke trial.

Nether premise has of course been proven conclusively, but so far no concrete medical evidence that aspartame causes migraines has been established either. At the time of writing, the Duke Study is considered to be the most authoritative on the subject.

(1) New England Journal of Medicine Volume 317:1181-1185 November 5, 1987

(2) CFSAN/Office of Food Additive Safety April 20

, 2007

(3) EFSA findings (Website available on request)

(4) Council on Scientific Affairs (1985) Aspartame. Review of safety issues.

(5) Scientific Committee findings Website available on request

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about the author

An e.book packed with further information and recommendations on the treatment and prevention of migraine can be obtained from: http://www.natural-migraine-alternatives.com
Additionally, more information can be obtained from my blog at:
http://natural-migraine-alternatives.blogspot.com

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Drugs For Migraine Treatment

Anti-Serotonin Drugs

Cyproheptadine (Periactin, Perhetine)

This drug blocks the receptors for the neurochemical serotonin in the brain and prevents dilatation of the blood vessels which cause a headache - most important factors in preventing migraine. It also has antihistamine and anti-acetylcholine effects. Its efficacy is low. This drug is often misused in children for increasing their weight. Treatment with cyproheptadine is begun with 2 to 4 mg tablet 2 to 3 times daily.

Adverse Effects and Precautions: The main adverse effects are drowsiness, dry mouth and appetite stimulation. Restrict the food intake to minimize weight gain.

Methysergide

It has been found effective in preventing attacks of migraine but it is not used or recommended nowadays because of the high incidence of serious adverse effects due to prolonged use. It is ineffective in relieving an acute attack. There are safer substitutes available now.

Adverse Effects: This causes adverse effects in 10 to 15 per cent of cases. The most serious of these is growth of fibrous tissues in the uterus, lungs, heart, blood vessels, and other organs. It causes dizziness, vertigo, mental confusion, restlessness, insomnia, and mild psychic and visual disturbances.

Amitriptyline

This is a mood-elevating drug used in the treatment of mental depression. It inhibits the uptake of serotonin in the brain and is moderately effective in preventing attacks of migraine. For prevention of attacks of migraine its dose is less than that used in mental depression. It has a sedative effect and is given in a dose of 50 to 100 mg at bedtime.

Adverse Effects: Adverse effects are mild if small doses used in migraine. It has an anti­acetylcholine effect, causing dryness of the mouth and blurring in vision. The sedation caused by it is not troublesome if it is taken at bedtime.

Precautions

Take the drug at bedtime as it produces sedation.

Avoid its use if you are taking sedatives, tranquillizers, guanethidine of thyroid preparations.

Calcium Antagonists

Flunarizine (Nomigrain, Flunaril 5 mg tab/cap)

Regular intake of calcium antagonists prevents attacks of migraine. Recent studies have confirmed this finding. Of these drugs flunarizine is the most effective. Flunarizine is commonly used for prevention of migraine and is found to be as effective as propranolol. It has selective action on brain blood vessels. It is to be given once daily in a 10 to 20 mg dose at bedtime for the first 15 days, and then the dose can be reduced to 10 mg gradually.

Adverse Effects: The use of this drug may cause sedation, constipation, dry mouth, weight gain, flushing and fall in blood pressure.

By: Franchis

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Sinus Headaches Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

Article reveals that headaches are associated with over 300 known medical conditions. Sometimes they are caused by the condition, and sometimes they are the condition. One of these conditions is sinusitis, which is commonly misdiagnosed. This is often confused with migraines. Sinus headaches are often caused by full or inflamed sinuses.

Headaches are symptoms of more than 300 medical issues. They can occur due to medical problems, but they can also be the problem itself! Sinusitis, which is overlooked by many doctors or misdiagnosed can be a cause. Such headaches occur when they sinuses are inflamed or irritated.

Sinuses are located in a few different places. It will encompass the area above the nose and behind the eyes. The mucus and tissue in these cavities can become full or irritated, causing much pain. There are occasions when the cavities are filled to the brim and intense pressure is created, causing pain.

These headaches are called secondary headaches when they are caused by something like a common cold or some other existing medical condition. When the headache is the medical condition, they are referred to as primary headaches. These too are often caused by something else.

Once you have found out the root of the problem, there are many ways to treat it. Unfortunately, when they are caused by the common cold, only time can heal the condition. There are,however, various pain relief medicines available.

Be careful that you do not select one that will actually worsen the affects. Acetaminophen and aspirin are effective treatment options, but it is possible to overdo it. MOH (medication overuse headache) is something that affects people that overuse their medications, whether it be over-the-counter or prescription.

Sometimes a more serious condition is indicated by a sinus headache. A deviated septum is genetic problem and the cavities tend to keep more moisture and fluids than it should. This is one type of sinusitis. If diagnosed with this condition, it can be corrected through surgical methods.

Treating the symptoms of sinus headaches may be enough to get you through the milder cases. Place a hot or cold towel or a compress to help with the pain and swelling. Various nasal sprays have also proven effective in treating this condition. Be careful not to exceed the recommended dosage, though, or you may actually make the condition worse.

Environmental factors can also contribute to sinus headaches. Airplane flights will often cause them due to the pressure changes that are involved. Stress levels and allergies can also trigger a reaction from the sinuses. Other factors, such as the weather can also influence the sinuses. Changes in humidity and air pressure can cause inflammation of the sinus cavities that will in turn cause headaches.

In rare cases, sinus headaches can also be caused by allergic reactions of various kinds. Certain things in food or in the air could trigger a reaction in those not normally affected by sinus headaches. These causes usually affect only a small portion of the population.

When full sinus cavities are to blame for the problem, it will usually subside when the sinus cavities drain. Steam inhalation can sometimes get the draining process started. Antibiotics are needed to lessen the amount of fluid in the sinuses. If you have recurring sinus headaches

, sit down with your doctor to determine the best treatment options.

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about the author

Moses Wright is a health conscious webmaster and loves to help people stay healthy. He sets up this site to provide people with more information on headaches health problems and Causes of Headaches online.

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A Look At Migraine Headache Treatment

Feeling drained of strength in life is quite normal for a migraine sufferer. Even now the number one factor for the cause of migraine is considered to be stress in certain sectors. Despite this opinion by many, the true cause of migraine remains unknown even thought the market place has numerous remedies.

Some believe that migraines are hereditary and while they are a disease of the mind, they have very real symptoms to the sufferer. Studies in humans and rats build a powerful case in what humans need to do in order to be successful in stopping their migraine attacks is to treat them before their pain-processing brain cells have become sensitized. Drugs such as the Triptan group can be administered at anytime during a migraine attack as has been shown when tried on humans as well as rats. Drugs like this have dual effect as they can help prevent the migraine as well as the frequency of attacks.

Usually the most common symptom for migraine is a throbbing or pulsating headache which is often one-sided (unilateral) and associated with feelings of nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and sleep disruption. Some people also complain of headaches that extend down to the jaw and ear as well as pain above the eyes and forehead area.

It is not just a pain that is an inconvenience; people that suffer from intense migraines cannot even go to work or carry out any daily routine task. The Lancet medical journal highlighted a correlation between dairy and wheat foods and a migraine reduction of eighty five percent in sufferers when these foods were avoided. This aspect is also highlighted by alternative therapists who have seen the association with food allergies causing a constriction of the arteries in the brain causing a dilation of muscular scalp arteries.

The use of magnets has been known to have beneficial effects on the body for a long time because on of the effects that would benefit a migraine sufferer is the stimulation of hormone production. Riboflavin was originally considered for migraine prevention because researchers observed that migraine sufferers tend to have impaired energy production in brain cells which riboflavin has the potential to enhance as it is a component of a key substance involved in the body's energy production.

There are a number of alternative and homeopathic treatments recommended for either warding off or getting rid of migraines, although no one can say for any degree of certainty that they work a high percentage of the time or even for a large number of migraine sufferers.

This is one of those situations where you will probably find what works for you after trying a few different remedies. may help the doctor determine what triggers your attacks and an answer to preventing them in the future.

By: Lindelwa Maseko

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