What are migrains caused by?

The exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the factors that are believed to contribute to migraines include:

* Genetics: Migraines tend to run in families, suggesting that there may be a genetic component to the disorder. However, the exact genes that are involved in migraines have not yet been identified.

* Brain changes: People who experience migraines have been found to have certain changes in the structure and function of their brains. These changes include:

* Changes in the brainstem: The brainstem is a part of the brain that controls many of the body's automatic functions, such as breathing and heart rate. People who experience migraines have been found to have changes in the brainstem that may be related to the development of migraines.

* Changes in the hypothalamus: The hypothalamus is a part of the brain that controls many of the body's hormones, such as cortisol and estrogen. People who experience migraines have been found to have changes in the hypothalamus that may be related to the development of migraines.

* Changes in the cerebral cortex: The cerebral cortex is the part of the brain that is responsible for higher-order functions, such as thinking, language, and memory. People who experience migraines have been found to have changes in the cerebral cortex that may be related to the development of migraines.

* Environmental factors: Certain environmental factors can also trigger migraines, including:

* Stress: Stress is a common trigger for migraines. This is because stress can cause the release of hormones that can lead to migraines.

* Certain foods: Some foods, such as cheese, chocolate, and red wine, can trigger migraines in some people.

* Weather changes: Changes in the weather, such as changes in temperature or barometric pressure, can trigger migraines in some people.

* Artificial sweeteners: Artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and sucralose, can trigger migraines in some people.

* Loud noises: Loud noises can trigger migraines in some people.

* Bright lights: Bright lights can trigger migraines in some people.

* Strong smells: Strong smells, such as perfume or cigarette smoke, can trigger migraines in some people.

It is important to note that not all people who experience migraines will have all of these symptoms. The symptoms of migraines can vary from person to person.