Posted by Bob P (129.65.106.21) on September 28, 1999 at 22:27:03:
In Reply to: Cluster Headache cause theory posted by Bobbie P. on September 28, 1999 at 20:26:30:
Kinda what I was saying below. I believe the HA are caused by lowered levels of serotonin (serotonin constricts the blood vessels among other things). This lowered level of serotonin causes the blood vessels to dialate, causing the headaches. Now sreotonin is produced in the brain from tryptophans (those things in Turkey that make you sleepy). So why have I had clusters start the day after Thanksgiving when I've jusr consumed large amounts of tryptophans and should have serotonin oozing from my pores. Maybe the tryptophan rush shuts down the normal production routine in my body (tryptophan shock). Also have them start around Xmas time too. Serotonin also controls our agressiveness. Monkeys with lowered levels make jumps for farther limbs than normal monkeys (hub). So do we get agressive when we get clusters, duh.
My hormone comments are based on time of onset of the disease in men and woemen. Naturally there are exceptions to the rule.
So the real question in my thinking is what causes the variation in levels of serotonin?
In case not everyone could tell, my post below was tongue in cheek with some hints of rational thinking. I've been accused of haveing hints of rationality at times.
So for now, all for one and on we go.
Hope you all have a pain free night.
LYG Bob P