Since migraine runs in families, researchers have begun to use advanced techniques to identify the gene that causes headaches. Exciting developments for identifying the true cause of migraines are on the horizon. Many scientists now believe that serotonin is the main culprit in the chemical reactions that occur during a migraine. Serotonin is a chemical in your brain that can constrict blood vessels and stimulate pain receptors. Levels of serotonin are unusually high just before a migraine and unusually low during the migraine attack.
Attacks can occur any time, day or night, though they often occur first thing in the morning.
Routine activity, exercise or slight head movement makes the pain worse. Some patients report that the simple act of trying to lift their heads off the pillow results in excruciating pain. Symptoms may appear up to several hours before the headache, or the pain may strike without any warning. Some people feel irritable during migraine attacks and seek solitude, often in a darkened room. Following an attack, many people feel washed out and listless.