Migraines Specialist

What is a migraine?

Contrary to popular belief, migraines are not just bad headaches. A migraine is a combination of troubling neurological symptoms that typically include sharp, recurring pain on one side of your head. In roughly one-third of migraine attacks, however, you may feel this excruciating pain on both sides.

Migraine attacks can last anywhere from 4-72 hours and are often accompanied by other incapacitating symptoms, including:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Sensitivity to sound, light, touch, or smell
• Vomiting
• Visual disturbances (i.e., loss of vision)

Everyone experiences migraines differently and may have different symptoms.

What causes migraines?

Even though the exact cause of migraines is unknown, your physician at Glaser Pain Relief Center can evaluate you to narrow down triggers to understand what might be causing your migraines.

Some common causes of migraines include:

• Hormonal changes in women (pregnancy, menopause)
• Certain foods and drinks (High-sodium, aged cheeses, alcohol, etc.)
• Certain medications
• Stress
• Sleep deprivation
• Sensory stimulation (bright lights, loud noises, etc.)
• Physical exertion (sports, sex, etc.)

Some people are more prone to develop migraines than others.

Who is at risk of developing migraines?

Migraines disproportionately affect women, making up 85% of chronic migraine sufferers in the United States.

Sadly, it’s not just adults; migraines can affect children too: About 10% of children suffer from migraines. It’s believed that genetics play a factor, so if your family has a history of migraines, you may be at risk.

How do you treat migraines?

Migraines may happen several times a week or once every couple of years. They can be so severe that they interfere with your ability to work and carry on normal activities. 

At Glaser Pain Relief Center, your physician evaluates you and performs a thorough physical exam. They discuss your symptoms in order to develop a better understanding of what might be triggering your migraine attacks.

The team may recommend lifestyle modifications, like avoiding certain foods or activities, and then monitor your progress. In some cases, your migraines might be treatable with medications like:

Botox®

Botox is an injectable medication that temporarily blocks the nerve endings that signal pain in migraines. Botox is FDA-approved to treat migraines in adults 18 and over.

Ubrelvy™

Ubrelvy is a prescription medication that offers fast-acting relief of migraine pain and other symptoms. This non-narcotic medication blocks the CGRP protein that contributes to migraine pain.

Nurtec™ODT 

Nurtec ODT is another acute treatment for migraines. The quick-dissolving medication eases migraine pain within minutes and can provide pain relief for up to 48 hours.

With the proper diagnosis, you'll be able to know what causes the migraines and take the appropriate steps to relieve your pain and continue to be active. That’s why it’s so vital not to let migraines go undiagnosed and untreated. 

Call or schedule an appointment online today to stop your migraine pain once and for all.