How a Migraine Happens Theories about migraine pain Older
theories about migraines suggested that symptoms were possibly
due to fluctuations in blood flow to the brain. Now many
headache researchers realize that changes in blood flow and
blood vessels do not initiate the pain, but may contribute to
it. Current thinking regarding migraine pain has moved more
toward the source of the problem, as improved technology and
research have paved the way for a better understanding. Today,
it is widely understood that chemical compounds and hormones,
such as serotonin and estrogen, often play a role in pain
sensitivity for migraine sufferers. One aspect of migraine pain
theory explains that migraine pain occurs due to waves of
activity by groups of excitable brain cells, which trigger
chemicals, such as serotonin to constrict blood vessels.
Serotonin is a chemical necessary for communication between
nerve cells. It can cause constriction or narrowing of blood
vessels throughout the body. When serotonin or estrogen level