How Drinking Coffee Can Reduce Migraines
Taking small amounts of caffeine by drinking coffee can reduce migraines and ease migraine pain. Caffeine works by blocking the action of adenosine. It does so by occupying and blockading adenosine receptors embedded in the surface membranes of neurons (nerve cells). In the central spinal system, adenosine may act as a tranquilizer and painkiller.However when adenosine is in the outer reaches of our nervous system, it causes pain. Adenosine dilates blood vessels in the head and neck, causing localized pain as experienced in a migraine attack. The concentration of adenosine in the head and neck is also increased above normal during a migraine attack.Caffeine, when taken in sufficiently small doses, alters the functioning of the human nervous system without adverse effects. In fact, caffeine works as a natural migraine relief. The caffeine molecule is very similar in shape to adenosine. Caffeine molecules fit into adenosine receptors without activating them. This prevents adenosine from binding to adenosine receptors, thereby effectively blocking the action of adenosine. Caffeine also constricts blood vessels in the head and neck.
