What Your Gut Has to Do with Headaches
Recent studies confirm that migraines, often characterized by severe headaches, can also be triggered by a pathologically altered gut microbiome. “Migraine patients benefit from a professionally conducted detox cure based on Modern Mayr Medicine,” says Dr. Richard Kogelnig, Deputy Medical Director at Park Igls.
Many Triggers & Little Research
Migraine – A Complex Illness
Nowadays, there are only a few diseases that are well-researched yet still considered (as of now) incurable. Migraine is one such chronic condition. However, the intensity and frequency of migraine attacks can be reduced with the right measures. This is achieved primarily by identifying and avoiding known migraine triggers—especially important for those affected, as women suffer from migraines three times as often as men.
Migraine triggers include histamine-rich foods (such as shellfish and strawberries), serotonin-containing foods (like bananas and nuts), tyramine-rich foods (such as cheese, red wine, and chocolate), and glutamate. Additionally, climatic factors and sensory overload from television, computers, flashing lights, loud music, noise, or intense smells can contribute to migraines. Lack of sleep and high stress levels also promote migraine attacks. One of the most significant triggers for women is hormonal fluctuations. More than half of all female migraine sufferers report their menstrual cycle as a trigger for migraines.
Migraine in Science
The exact causes of migraines have not yet been fully clarified by science. “According to the latest scientific findings, inflammatory processes occur in the brain, leading to irritation of various cranial nerves, such as the optic nerve or the vagus nerve—the tenth cranial nerve and the largest of the parasympathetic nervous system. This increases pain sensitivity and even generates pain impulses,” explains Dr. Richard Kogelnig, Deputy Medical Director at Park Igls.
Large studies show that the cause of these inflammations is linked to changes in the intestinal mucosa—referred to as Leaky Gut (“permeable gut”). This process is associated with a pathologically altered gut microbiome, allowing toxic substances to pass from the intestine into the circulatory system and ultimately reach the brain.
As a complement to the detox cure, affected individuals at the Park Igls Health Retreat also receive acupuncture treatment. Dr Richard Kogelnig explains:
"Acupuncture is another key pillar in the treatment of migraines and has been successfully used for thousands of years to address various disorders."
Dr Richard Kogelnig explains
Support Through Mayr Medicine
Dr Richard Kogelnig, Mayr physician and general practitioner with additional training in neural therapy, manual medicine, and acupuncture, is therefore convinced that “a natural, biological therapeutic approach in Modern Mayr Medicine lies in improving gut flora and gut function.” Studies confirm that the healthier the gut and its microbiome, the better the immune system functions.
“Migraine patients benefit from a professionally conducted detox cure based on Modern Mayr Medicine in two ways,” explains the expert. “First, toxic substances that arise during digestion and fermentation processes are eliminated. Second, the gut microbiome is optimized, which protects the body from harmful pathogens and continuously stimulates the immune system.”