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Migraine headaches are believed to be caused by changes in nerve pathways, as well as imbalances in brain chemicals that regulate the way pain is sensed by the nervous system.
Trigeminal Nerve
The trigeminal nerve is a major pathway for transmitting pain through the nervous system. Any changes in this nerve and its environment can trigger a migraine headache.
Brain Chemicals
Imbalances or dysfunctions in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, can also trigger a migraine. Neurotransmitters, responsible for sending signals to the brain, will deliver higher levels of pain when functioning improperly.
Hormones
Changes in hormonal levels, especially for women, have been reported to cause a migraine headache. Many women experience a migraine before and after menstruation cycles.
Sensory Overload
Certain stimuli can cause a migraine headache. Loud noises, strong odors, bright lights and other sensory experiences have been known to cause a migraine in people who exhibit a vulnerability to sensory overload.
Medications
Certain medications may trigger a migraine, especially those that cause a swelling of blood vessels on the surface of the brain.
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