Migraines

What are migraines?

A migraine is a type of severe headache that causes throbbing or pulsing pain sensations, often on just one side of the head.

A migraine episode can last for several hours or several days, causing pain and a host of other symptoms that can interfere with your life, or even become debilitating.

Your risk for developing migraines may increase if you have a family history of the condition. Migraines may also relate to imbalances in the chemicals found in your brain that regulate your nervous system.

What are the symptoms of migraines?

In addition to severe head pain, you may also experience related symptoms like persistent nausea and vomiting.

For many, migraine symptoms progress in stages. You may notice warning signs that can indicate an oncoming migraine, such as:

• Irritability
• Increased thirst
• Visual disturbances
• Facial numbness or weakness

You may also be more susceptible to light and sounds, making it difficult for you to get out of bed and engage in your usual activities.

How are migraines diagnosed?

In many cases, your symptoms can provide the team with the information they need to confirm migraines. The team also reviews your medical history and may perform a neurological exam.

Testing may involve blood work to check for infections or high levels of toxins that can trigger migraines. You may also need to undergo imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, where your headache specialist can take a closer look at your brain, blood vessels, and other structures that may be linked to your headaches.

What treatment options are available for migraines?

If you can’t find relief from migraines using over-the-counter pain medications, the team may be able to recommend prescription therapies that can ease your symptoms.

Sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) blocks are an effective treatment option for migraine pain. They work by blocking pain signals from this nerve that plays a factor in headaches. The practice also offers injectable medications to quickly end migraine pain.

The Center for Neurology and Neurophysiology also offers preventive resources and treatment to stop a migraine before it becomes painful. Botox injections may be an option for preventing chronic migraine pain. You can also reduce your risk by making changes to your lifestyle to ensure you get time to relax throughout the day and get a good night’s sleep. The team can also help you learn techniques to relax your muscles.

Schedule a consultation online or by phone to end migraine suffering and restore your quality of life.