Springtime Allergies and Migraine: Tips for Managing Seasonal Triggers By: Brooklyn A. Bradley, BS; Medically edited by Dr. Deena Kuruvilla, MD As spring arrives, so does the beauty of blossoming flowers, longer days, and warmer weather. However, for many people with migraine, springtime also brings the onset of seasonal allergies, which can exacerbate migraine symptoms [...]
Riboflavin for Migraine Prevention By: Brooklyn A. Bradley, BS; Medically edited by Dr. Deena Kuruvilla, MD While various medications exist for migraine prevention and relief, many individuals seek natural supplements for treatment. Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, is a non-pharmacological option that has gained attention in recent years. In today’s blog post, we will [...]
Meet the Face Behind the Screen: Hi, I'm Brooklyn! By: Brooklyn A. Bradley, BS Hey there, wonderful readers! I'm Brooklyn, and I'm thrilled to welcome you back (or if you are new, nice to e-meet you!) to the Westport Headache Institute. As you explore the website and our social media, you'll discover a world where [...]
Gut-Brain Axis, Part II - Nausea By: Brooklyn A. Bradley, BS; Medically edited by Dr. Deena Kuruvilla, MD The gut-brain axis is a communication network that links the enteric and central nervous systems. The components linking the gut and the brain include the autonomic nervous system, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and nerves within the gastrointestinal (GI) [...]
Gut Brain Axis and Migraine By: Brooklyn A. Bradley, BS; Medically edited by Dr. Deena Kuruvilla, MD The gut-brain axis (GBA) is defined by the communication between the central nervous system (CNS) and the enteric nervous system (ENS) [1]. The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord, and is responsible for receiving, processing, and [...]
Migraine and Menopause By: Brooklyn A. Bradley, BS; Medically edited by Dr. Deena Kuruvilla, MD Menstruation, perimenopause, and menopause all affect individuals with migraine. Menopause is considered when you have missed your period for 12 months. [1]. The average age of menopause is 51, and it occurs in all menstruating women. There are various hormonal [...]
Depression and Headache By: Brooklyn A. Bradley, BS; Medically edited by Dr. Deena Kuruvilla, MD Past research has shown that many individuals who have a mental health diagnosis also experience headaches or migraine [1,2]. Living with a headache disorder can trigger depression or other mood disorders, as it may affect the individual’s quality of life. [...]
Benefits of Daily Exercise for Migraine Attacks By: Brooklyn A. Bradley, BS; Medically edited by Dr. Deena Kuruvilla, MD Exercise is beneficial for your physical and mental health. There is evidence to suggest that regular exercise can reduce the frequency of migraine attacks [1]. Exercise can also reduce stress, which is a common migraine trigger. [...]
Phases of Migraine By: Brooklyn A. Bradley, BS; Medically edited by Dr. Deena Kuruvilla, MD Migraine can be divided into four distinct phases, known as the prodrome, aura, headache, and postdrome phases [1]. Understanding these phases can help people further define their migraine, and also manage their disease. It is important to mention that not [...]
Red Wine and Headache - What’s the Connection? By: Brooklyn A. Bradley, BS; Medically edited by Dr. Deena Kuruvilla, MD The United States produced over 773 million gallons of wine in 2021 [1]. Cabernet Sauvignon, a type of red wine, was the top sold variety in the United States in 2019 [2]. Many people [...]
