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Hyperventilation From Migraine Pain

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), migraine headaches can produce intense pain and throbbing sensations on one or both sides of the head. This pain can cause fatigue, lightheadedness, nausea and blurred vision. Hyperventilation is rapid breathing that can be caused by pain or anxiety. An individual who is experiencing extreme pain from a migraine or anxiety-producing symptoms such as lightheadedness or blurred vision could experience hyperventilation as a result of the pain and anxiety.

  1. Causes and Symptoms of Migraine

    • According to the AAFP, migraine headaches are caused by chemical changes in the brain. When the levels of the chemical serotonin drop, the blood vessels in the brain can swell, causing pain. Serotonin levels can be affected by physical factors such as changes in blood sugar levels, consumption of specific foods, or, in women, hormonal changes that accompany the menstrual cycle. Migraines can produce a variety of very unpleasant symptoms such as a throbbing sensation in the head, blurred vision, nausea and dizziness.

    Hyperventilation and Pain

    • The National Institutes of Health (NIH) note that hyperventilation, or rapid breathing, can result from intense pain or anxiety. Hyperventilation causes increased levels of oxygen to enter the body, making an individual feel lightheaded. The process of hyperventilation can produce a sensation of breathlessness that can, in turn, cause increased anxiety and panic. This can be a distressing experience for a patient with migraine pain, as they may mistake the hyperventilation and pain as a symptom of a more serious health issue such as heart attack or stroke.

    Controlling Migraine Pain

    • The AAFP suggests that migraine pain can be controlled by lying flat in a quiet area with low light. The use of cold compresses on the head and over-the-counter or prescription pain medications are also advised for severe migraine pain. The AAFP notes that it is important for a patient to relax and stay calm if there is serious migraine pain.

    Home Care for Hyperventilation

    • The NIH suggests that hyperventilation from anxiety or pain can be controlled by increasing the body's levels of carbon dioxide. An individual can do this by breathing into a bag or by breathing through the nose, which often slows the breathing process. Self-care for hyperventilation and migraines are similar in that a patient should try to lie down, remain clam and reduce the pain as much as possible.

    When to Seek Medical Assistance

    • The NIH suggests that individuals should seek additional medical assistance if the pain from migraine or symptoms of hyperventilation continue to worsen even after self-care is attempted. In addition, physicians note that any pain or breathlessness accompanied by bleeding or a fever should be reported to a doctor or urgent care facility.

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