If you keep getting headaches that are accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, light and sound sensitivity, and vision changes, you may actually be suffering from a migraine. Migraines are the third most prevalent illness across the globe, and about 90% of people who get them have to miss work and cannot function normally during a migraine attack. You don't have to suffer through your migraines. Read on to identify possible triggers of a migraine headache and how to treat your migraines with chiropractic care.

What Can Trigger a Migraine?

Doctors aren't totally sure why some people are more prone to migraines than others. There may be a genetic component, but it's believed that migraines are caused by imbalances between certain neurotransmitters, like serotonin. Some people also find that certain triggers can set off a migraine attack, such as:

• Stress
• Anxiety/depression
• Poor sleep
• Shoulder or neck tension from poor posture
• Overexertion
• Allergens
• Low blood sugar

Some of these triggers can be managed with lifestyle changes. However, if you cannot identify any clear triggers for your migraines, you may want to contact a chiropractor to help you manage your symptoms.

How Can a Chiropractor Treat Your Symptoms?

Some chiropractors offer massage therapy treatments that can help relieve migraine systems. If your migraines are caused by tight muscles in your head, neck, and shoulders, then a massage can help to loosen these taut bands of tissue. Furthermore, massage helps to increase circulation and improve the oxygen levels the brain receives. Massage can be beneficial for people who get migraines from stress or anxiety.

A chiropractor can also perform adjustments on the spine to relieve tension and pain. In fact, one study found that some people were able to see a significant improvement in their migraine symptoms after spinal manipulation therapy. A spinal manipulation can help you get your vertebrae in proper alignment, which can be helpful if your migraines are caused by poor posture.

One type of manipulation your chiropractor may try is cervical traction, where he or she gently stretches your neck. Because compression on nerves and joints can lead to migraines, cervical traction can release any built-up tension. Some chiropractors may have you lie down on an inversion table. When you are on one of these tables, the force of gravity helps decompress your spine and release any tension you may be holding in.

Don't let your migraines ruin your quality of life. Contact a chiropractor today to narrow down possible migraine triggers and to reduce any pain you may have.