Migraines can sometimes be accompanied by warning signs called an “aura,” which may include blind spots, flashes of light, and tingling. These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for symptoms of a seizure or stroke. In some cases, migraine may not have a headache as the primary symptom, which is known as “Late Life Migrainous Accompaniment,” but may affect those as young as 40. Migraines with brainstem aura may result in slurred speech, vertigo, double vision, ringing in the ears, staggering gait, or even loss of consciousness. Our neurologists at Sharlin Health and Neurology are familiar with all types of migraine patterns.

Genetics & Environmental Factors Play Role In Migraine

Migraine is believed to be triggered by a mix of both genetic and environmental factors, which can affect the brainstem and trigeminal nerve. These changes may cause the release of neuropeptides that contribute to migraine symptoms. Other neurotransmitters, including CGRP, are also implicated in migraine. Brain chemical imbalances, including those involving serotonin, which helps regulate nervous system sensitivity, may also play a role. During migraine attacks, serotonin levels drop.

What Factors Trigger Your Migraine?

​​Migraine has been linked to various environmental factors, including chemical exposure, hormonal imbalances, stress, alcohol consumption, changes in sleep patterns, changes in weather or barometric pressure, and various physical factors. At Sharlin Health and Neurology, a leading functional neurology clinic near Ozark, we recognize the role of the gut in migraines, including the impact of gut bacteria on food sensitivities, gut permeability, and immune system activation. Notably, low levels of serotonin in the gut, where gut bacteria produce most serotonin in the body, have been associated with migraine.

We Discover The Root Cases For Your Migraine

At Sharlin Health and Neurology, we take a functional medicine approach to treating migraines for our Ozark-area patients, which involves identifying and addressing the root causes of the condition. This approach is based on the principles of systems biology, which seeks to understand the interactions between different systems in the body and how they contribute to health and disease. Our approach involves using the Functional Medicine operating system, which consists of the Functional Medicine Timeline, the Functional Medicine Matrix, and Therapeutic Lifestyle Factors. The Matrix helps us understand imbalances at the cellular level and supports patients in making changes to regain balance. It includes seven nodes, which are: Assimilation, Communication, Structural Integrity, Defense & Repair, Energy, Biotransformation & Elimination, and Transport.

If you are experiencing migraines, cluster, or tension headaches in the Ozark area and need relief get in touch with Sharlin Health for expert assistance.