I've yet to read about a convincing cause of migraines. Some people seem to think that certain foods are a trigger (the latest idea is that they increase brain levels of serotonin), but not for me anyway. Changes in blood flow are also implicated (especially in the meningal region apparently), and it would make sense that vasodilation increases pressure within the cranium and hence produces the sensation of pain. But what causes the vasodilation?
I have a theory that it is due to inflammation (and this is backed up by my observation that anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen can be helpful), possibly caused by low-level viraemia - perhaps rhinoviruses or types of influenza. Presumably, the viruses would be located in endothelium, but could be associated with nervous tissue, just like Herpes Zoster in the case of shingles.
At first sight, the idea of 'brain pain' being caused by micro-organisms seems way off the mark, but then it took quite a time to recognise the importance of bacteria (Helicobacter pylori) for gastric ulcers.
It's an idea, anyway - all comments welcome!
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