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The Neurochemistry of Insomnia: why do migraines factor into this sleep disorder?

Writer: RRHS ScienceNHSRRHS ScienceNHS


By: Mrunal Bagal

The lack of sleep we can get from such disorders can neurologically and physically affect our daily lives and in the aspects of how the performance of bodies. Insomnia is defined as the hindrance of instigating and maintaining sleep. Migraines can contribute to insomnia by disrupting the natural sleep-wake cycle. The pain and discomfort associated with a migraine often make it difficult for individuals to fall asleep or stay asleep, leading to poor rest.


Insomnia is caused by changes in the brainstem and hypothalamic regions that control sleep, resulting from neurodegenerative, inflammatory, traumatic, or ischemic events. The pain from a migraine can interfere with regular sleep patterns, while overlapping neural pathways in the brain, which control both sleep and pain, may be involved. Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which play a key role in regulating both sleep and migraine episodes, can exacerbate the problem. This creates a harmful cycle where migraine pain disrupts sleep, and insufficient rest can, in turn, trigger a migraine. Migraines are believed to involve a complex interaction between brain nerve cells, also known as neurons, and the pathways they use to communicate with each other. The brain contains a dense network of neurons that transmit electrical signals via synapses, and this signaling process is crucial for regulating various bodily functions, including pain perception and sleep. In the case of a migraine, the brain’s neurons become overly excitable. The brainstem plays a role in the pain processing system, and when it is overstimulated, it can cause the release of chemicals like serotonin and other neurotransmitters, which can influence both pain and sleep patterns. The abnormal firing of these neurons can spread to other areas of the brain, particularly the cortex, which is involved in processing sensory information. This heightened brain activity can cause the pain and symptoms associated with migraines, such as sensitivity to light, sound, and nausea. Furthermore, the overstimulation of neurons can lead to an imbalance in neurotransmitters, contributing to a vicious cycle of disrupted sleep and migraine attacks. The brain's nerve cells and their signaling pathways are crucial in both the onset and perpetuation of migraines and insomnia, as these processes influence how pain is felt and how sleep is regulated in the body.

 
 
 

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