Migraines Specialist

What are migraines?

Migraines are a type of headache that causes moderate to severe throbbing head pain. In addition to the pain, migraine sufferers may have other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light or sound, or vertigo. 

What’s the difference between migraines and other headaches?

Though migraines and other types of headaches both cause pain, migraines have specific differences. 

Migraines cause a throbbing sensation in the front or side of the head, which tends to be more intense than a headache. Headaches cause mild to moderate head pain that develops from muscle contractions between the neck and head. 

Many people with migraines experience symptoms before the onset of their head pain, such as sensitivity to light, while other headaches often occur without any warning.

What causes migraines?

Migraines are a neurological issue, and researchers theorize they develop from changes in chemicals, blood vessels, and nerves in the brain. 

Though researchers are still investigating the underlying cause of migraines, there are several factors known to trigger migraine headaches, such as:

• Stress
• Light
• Food and drinks
• Skipping meals
• Exercise
• Hormonal changes
• Sleep changes
• Strong smells
• Weather

Living a stress-free, healthy life is one of the best ways to prevent a migraine attack. 

What are the types of migraines?

Modern Pain & Spine classifies migraines based on the frequency of attacks, the location of the pain, and related symptoms. 

Episodic migraines

Episodic migraines are migraines that occur less than 14 times a month. 

Chronic migraines

People that have migraine attacks 15 or more days out of a month have chronic migraines. 

Vestibular migraines

People with vestibular migraines experience feelings of vertigo like dizziness and loss of balance. 

Optical migraines

Optical migraines are a type of aura migraine that affects the eyes, causing temporary visual impairment or a blind spot. Aura migraines cause sensory-related symptoms.  

Menstrual migraines

Many women develop migraines 2-3 days before starting their period. These migraines are known as menstrual migraines.

Silent migraines

Silent migraines are migraines that occur without pain, causing symptoms such as sensitivity to light, dizziness, or stomach problems.

Abdominal migraines and hemiplegic migraines are other types. 

How are migraines treated?

Your provider at Modern Pain & Spine creates an individualized treatment plan for your migraines based on type and symptoms.

Treatment may include:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Avoiding migraine triggers
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) 
• Acetaminophen 
• Triptans
• Antiemetics
• Antidepressants
• Anti-seizure medication
• Occipital nerve block
• Botox® injections

During an attack, Modern Pain & Spine recommends resting in a dark and quiet room until your symptoms subside.

For chronic migraines, Modern Pain & Spine offers Botox injections. These treatments involve multiple injections around the head and neck every few months and may reduce migraine episodes by 10%.

For comprehensive migraine care, call Modern Pain & Spine, or book an appointment online today.