Why are your senses heightened when you have a migraine?

Migraines are often accompanied by a variety of symptoms, including heightened senses. This is because migraines are thought to be caused by changes in the brain that affect the way sensory information is processed.

Here are some possible explanations for why senses may be heightened during a migraine:

1. Trigeminal nerve: The trigeminal nerve is a major nerve that connects the brain to the face. It is involved in sensation, including touch, temperature, and pain. During a migraine, the trigeminal nerve may become irritated or inflamed, which can lead to heightened senses.

2. Serotonin levels: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in many bodily functions, including mood, sleep, and appetite. Low serotonin levels have been linked to migraines, and it is thought that decreased serotonin levels may lead to heightened senses.

3. Cortical spreading depression: Cortical spreading depression (CSD) is a wave of electrical activity that spreads across the cortex, the outermost layer of the brain. CSD is thought to be the underlying cause of the aura that some people experience before a migraine. CSD can also lead to heightened senses, as it can disrupt the way the brain processes sensory information.

4. Increased glutamate levels: Glutamate is a neurotransmitter that is involved in many brain functions, including learning and memory. High levels of glutamate have been linked to migraines, and it is thought that increased glutamate levels may lead to heightened senses.

5. Changes in blood flow: During a migraine, blood flow to the brain may increase or decrease. These changes in blood flow can affect the way the brain processes sensory information, which can lead to heightened senses.

6. Genetic factors: Some people may be more likely to experience heightened senses during a migraine due to genetic factors. This is because genes can affect the way the brain processes sensory information and responds to pain.

Heightened senses can be a very distressing symptom of migraine. If you experience heightened senses during a migraine, it is important to talk to your doctor. There are a variety of treatments that can help to relieve this symptom.