Migraines are defined as severe headaches associated with blurred vision, nausea, and sensitivity to light, smell, and other stimuli. Each episode, which ranges from hours to days, can significantly affect a person’s everyday living. Women usually get the short end of the stick when it comes to this condition as they are more susceptible to migraines than men.

In a recent study conducted by researchers from The Miguel Hernandez University of Elche in Spain, it was found that the reason behind the higher migraine incidence in women is the different sex hormones.

For the study, existing research about migraine sensitivity, nerve reactions to migraine triggers, and sex hormones was reviewed by the researchers with the aim of establishing a connection between each other. At first, experts believed that sex hormones induced migraines by regulating the immune system, thereby leading to inflammation as well as a consequent increase in the sensitivity of pain receptors. Yet, results demonstrated that hormones are directly involved in pain receptor signaling. This study was published in the journal Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences.

It was observed that sex hormones modulate neurons in the cranial nerve that are part of the trigeminovascular system, which is involved in migraine pathology. Testosterone, produced by males, had a protective effect on the nerves, thus making them less susceptible to migraines. On the other hand, prolactin and estrogen, wherein women produce more of these, were shown to increase sensitivity to pain. This makes women suffer from higher migraine incidences.

Professor Antonio Ferrer-Montiel, the lead author of the study, says that:

“Although this is a complex process, we believe that modulation of the trigeminovascular system by sex hormones plays an important role that has not been properly addressed.”

With a better understanding of migraine pathology, there is an increased possibility of finding more appropriate treatments for migraines, which is really necessary to prevent further complications.

Natural Remedies For Migraines

A lot of people suffering from migraines usually use conventional medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen. Unfortunately, these drugs have side effects like drowsiness, nausea, weight gain, dizziness, and low blood pressure.

Here is a list of home remedies you can try to alleviate migraines without the need to worry about side effects.

Hydration

Because dehydration is a common trigger for migraines, enough water intake is needed to significantly improve it. If you are severely dehydrated, you might need to use rehydration solutions to supply your body with missing electrolytes.

Acupressure

By applying pressure on specific parts of your body, you can relieve muscle tension and alleviate pain. In order remedy pain, you can press on the area between the base of the left thumb and index finger in a circular manner for about five minutes.

Compresses

Both cold and warm compresses are effective and soothing and reducing migraine pain.

Yoga Or Stretching

By doing this, you’ll be able to improve your blood flow and reduce muscle tension, thereby providing migraine relief. According to studies, yoga works even better than conventional treatments.