Cluster indicates that the pain in your head is always unilateral (one sided), although for some people the side can vary from time to time. The pain is usually centred over one eye, one temple or the forehead.

In familial hemiplegic migraine, a pattern of neurological symptoms called an aura precedes the headache.  In people with familial hemiplegic migraine, auras are also characterized by temporary numbness or weakness, often affecting one side of the body (hemiparesis). Additional features of an aura can include difficulty with speech, confusion, and drowsiness.

In an article by The DailyMail it as stated that scientists say theyhave found the first hard evidence that the blinding headaches, which can cause disturbed vision and nausea, are indeed hereditary.   Researchers claim to be close to identifying a specific gene predisposing people to the disorder.   Children whose mothers suffered from headaches had double the risk of migraines when they grew up.  Dr Aarno Palotie, a geneticist at the University of California, in Los Angeles, said: ‘For the first time we haveproof of an isolated genetic link to migraine.’

In a third of the 430 people studied, researchers discovered three common markers on a crucial section of ‘chromosome four’.  Dr Palotie, whose breakthrough is reported in the American Journal of Human Genetics, explained: “This finding moves us a step closer to isolating the gene that predisposes people to migraines with auras.  Now that they had narrowed the hunting ground, they could concentrate on identifying the gene. The findings also pave the way for clinical trials of more effective prophylactic drugs”, added Dr. Palotie. 

The discovery may help doctors treat the six million British sufferers. Migraines affect almost 20 per cent of women and 6 per cent of men.  If you’re suffering from Migraine, don’t hesitate to come and see one of our chiropractors.

Throughout their careers our chiropractors have relieved migraine, sinus, tension and cluster headaches of their patients.

It takes a careful history taking of the exact nature of the headaches followed by a detailed physical examination of the entire biomechanics and nervous system of the patients body. In particular the neck, shoulders upper back and jaw as well as the sinus drainage points will be examined and if involved will be treated. Treatment varies according to each patient taking account of their age, fitness and state of health. One patient recently relieved of 15 years of cluster headaches was ver irritated that all his previous doctors and specialists had not mentioned to him that chiropractic could help him. He felt he had been given and new lease of life.