How do you know you’re having a migraine?
Migraine headaches are different from other types of head pain. One important distinction is subtle symptoms precede the migraines. These indications include:
- Neck stiffness
- Constipation
- Mood changes
- Increased thirst and urination
Once a migraine sets in, you’re likely to experience the following:
- Intense pain located on one or both sides of your head
- Throbbing, pulsing pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to sounds, light, and even smell or touch
These symptoms can last anywhere from 4-72 hours.
What causes a migraine headache?
Doctors aren’t sure of the exact causes of migraine headaches, but they believe there are both genetic and environmental factors at play. An imbalance in your brain chemicals may also play a role. There may even be physiological issues to blame, including miscommunication between your brainstem and trigeminal nerve.
While it may not be possible to determine what’s causing your migraines, you and your doctor can work to identify certain triggers that can bring on the migraine and find ways to avoid them. Common triggers include:
- Stress
- Certain foods and beverages
- Changes in your sleep pattern
- Female hormonal changes
- Certain medications
What are the treatment options for migraines?
Numerous medications can effectively treat migraines. They fall into two categories: pain-relieving and preventive.
Pain-Relieving
You should take pain-relieving medications during a migraine attack. Some work by constricting blood vessels or blocking the path pain takes to your brain. Some medications in this category help relieve nausea or other complicating symptoms.
Preventive
The Apex Medical Center doctors prescribe preventive medications to patients suffering from frequent migraines that last 12 hours or more and don’t respond to pain-relieving medication. Beta blockers and antidepressants are both preventive options. Even certain anti-seizure drugs can help prevent migraines.
Some people find relief through alternative-medicine approaches, including acupuncture, biofeedback, and massage therapy. The Apex Medical Center team is happy to go over these treatment options with you.
At Apex Medical Center, you have access to the latest treatments for migraine headaches. Your doctor works with you to devise an individualized treatment approach to get you back on your feet and back to your normal routine.
