Science can’t say for sure what causes cluster headaches; however, fingers are being pointed at the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is a small bundle of nerves deep within the brain that manages hunger, thirst, fatigue, body temperature, and circadian cycles. It’s all about homeostasis – a sense of internal regulation and balance.
{Posts tagged as:
headaches
Though no one knows exactly why migraines occur, it’s interesting that levels of the neurotransmitter, serotonin, drop during a migraine episode. And when this drop occurs it’s been suggested the trigeminal system (sensory innervation to the face and mucous membranes of the oral cavity, as well as motor innervation to the muscles of chewing) then begins to release neuropeptides; which travel to the meninges (the outer covering of the brain), causing severe head pain.
{As if we didn’t already know, but science has taken note of the relationship between depression, anxiety, and headaches. And it’s one of reciprocating impact. For example, within the context of depression, headaches may be a symptom; and dealing with frequent headaches exacerbates a depressive mood. Unfortunately, no one knows for sure just why these relationships exist, other than speculating on the role of common neurotransmitters…serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
{Continue Reading 0 comments }Bio Perspective, I Want Relief, Psych Perspective
