Migraines are a painful, pulsating headache that typically impact people between the ages of 18 and 55. These headaches can leave one feeling completely depleted and unable to go about their daily activities. Doctors have noted that the majority of sufferers are women; nearly three times as many women suffer from migraines than men. Why is it that women seem to have a higher rate of diagnosis than men?
Why Women?
Nearly 17% of women suffer from migraine attacks, compared to the 6% of men. Many doctors believe that women are more sensitive to the triggers that set-off a migraine episode. The exact reason behind this sensitivity isn’t known, but some doctors believe that hormonal changes and genetics play a major part in why women seem to suffer with migraines more than men.
Prior to puberty, males and females seem to maintain a close rate of migraine diagnoses. However, those numbers spike significantly for women after puberty. Doctors believe that this is caused largely to the increase in estrogen within a woman’s body as a result of menstruation. Nearly 70% of women that suffer from migraines have noted that their monthly cycles have a direct correlation to the severity, frequency and duration of their migraines. Many doctors have looked at the correlation of taking birth control medication and migraines. If migraines worsen during the placebo week, it is due to the drop in estrogen for the week. Some suggest taking a lower estrogen pill or using a monthly pill (no placebo week, no monthly cycle) to avoid the monthly fluctuation of hormones.
While hormonal fluctuations might increase some levels of sensitivity, genetics are a key player in the diagnosis of migraines, as well. If a family member is diagnosed with migraines, you are twice as likely to develop them during your lifetime. The closer the family member with migraines is to you, the higher your chances of being diagnosed. For example, if you Aunt has them you have a small chance, but if you father has migraines your risk is greater due to the genetic connections.
Women that face the certain frustrations brought on by migraines should speak with their medical practitioner regarding adjustments in their treatment that could create some positive changes in day-to-day life.
Tags: migraine, migraine headache, migraine prevention, migraine treatment, pregnancy, women and migraines
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