Headaches

Headaches and migraines can be debilitating. 

Have you ever wondered “When will my next headache or migraine occur?” “Am I going to have to take work off today?” Constantly worrying can be stressful physically and mentally. Most medications whether over-the-counter or prescription can offer temporary relief, but in extreme episodes, you need these medications just to “deal with it”. They typically don’t bring about long term relief. It is important to note that although over the counter medications can be helpful in temporarily alleviating migraines, too many medications can actually trigger headaches. These are called medication-overuse headaches.

You need to start asking yourself “Are my hormones causing or influencing these headaches?”

What hormone imbalances can cause headaches? Thyroid hormone, estrogen/progesterone and testosterone imbalances can all be associated with headaches and migraines.

Thyroid hormone and headaches: One clinical study showed That subclinical hypothyroidism was significantly higher in those that suffer migraine headaches compared to those that don't. Another study Showed that there was a 26% higher chance of hypothyroid and those that suffer from headaches compared to those that don't. And yet another study that showed a clinical correlation between thyroglobulin antibodies which are related to autoimmune disorders and neck and head pain.

Estrogen/progesterone and headaches: The cycle for women can bring about a mix of symptoms. One day you may feel totally normal, and then suddenly the next day can be filled with headaches, mood swings and bloating.This is due to the constant fluctuation of estrogen and progesterone hormones. A dramatic drop in estrogen levels can increase the frequency and severity of hormonal headaches. Popping an aspirin or other over the counter pain medication made all the pain for a little bit, but it is only masking the symptoms. The assessment of estrogen and progesterone hormone levels and targeted natural vitamin treatment can yield promising relief.

Testosterone and headaches: Low testosterone levels can also have an impact on migraines and headaches. Testosterone is associated with libido and sexual function, however, this connection is only one component of that hormone. Testosterone imbalances can be associated with weight gain, loss of muscle mass, depression, PCOS, and even migraine headaches.

One clinical study showed that men with low testosterone levels had an increased migraine headaches compared to a control group. Another clinical study investigating the effect of testosterone hormone therapy in women, 92% of women experienced a significant decline in the severity of headaches within three months. It is important to note that although over the counter medications can be helpful in temporarily alleviating migraines, too many medications can actually trigger headaches. This is called medication overuse headaches.