The Family of Serotonin Disorders
Another characteristic of those with migraine is that they are often susceptible to conditions other than migraine. Many of these conditions are associated with an imbalance of a brain chemical called serotonin. Serotonin is a communication chemical for the brain and is involved in many disorders including migraine, depression, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and irritable bowel syndrome. When serotonin levels are suddenly decreased, migraine may result. However, if the process is more chronic in nature, depression and sleep problems may develop.
   
The disorders associated with a migraine are called “co-morbidities”. Discussing this concept with your physician is a very important part of headache care. Learning how to manage a migrainous nervous system is the key to successful migraine management as well as preventing or managing these co-morbid conditions.

Conditions Frequently Associated with Headache

> Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and gastric disorders
> Dysmetabolic Syndrome
> Asthma
> Depression/anxiety/bi-polar disorder
> Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
> Sleep disturbances
> Muscle and joint pain/fibromyalgia
> Restless Leg Syndrome

Therapeutic Phases of Migraine
The Migraine Attack
Managing Migraine
Risk Factors for Migraine
Protective Factors for Migraine
Conditions Associated with Migraine