Getting a headache that grounds you for hours or days isn’t normal. If you suspect it was a migraine, you’re probably right. A migraine is a neurological condition that causes severe pain and other symptoms, unlike typical headaches.
A migraine typically starts with intense, pulsating pain on one side of your head, although it can affect both sides. You may also experience symptoms like nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and blind spots in your vision.
While some people may experience occasional migraines triggered by stress, lack of sleep, or certain foods, others live with chronic migraines. If you have 15 or more migraines in a month, you have a chronic condition, and our team is here to help at SEPA Pain & Spine in southeastern Pennsylvania.
Continue reading as we explain why migraines happen and what your treatment options are.
We still don’t understand exactly why migraines happen, but most research suggests a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental triggers.
Changes in serotonin levels and other chemical messengers in your brain can affect how its nerves communicate, causing the intense symptoms of migraines.
Factors such as stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, dehydration, or lack of sleep can trigger your migraines. But triggers vary from person to person, making it crucial to identify what might be causing your episodes.
There’s currently no cure for migraines, but there are many ways to reduce their frequency and intensity. The first step is a thorough evaluation with our team.
During your initial consultation, we review your medical history, discuss your symptoms and triggers, and perform any necessary tests to rule out other conditions.
This process helps us determine the underlying cause of your migraines and the best course of action. Depending on your needs, your treatment plan may include the following:
Preventive medications like beta-blockers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants can reduce the frequency of migraines. Acute treatments such as triptans, ergotamines, and over-the-counter pain relievers can ease the symptoms during an attack.
If you experience chronic migraines, Botox injections around your head and neck can block pain signals. Botox can also significantly reduce the number of migraine days you experience each month, and its effects typically last 10-12 weeks.
If you need immediate relief, nerve blocks are a very effective option. They involve injecting a local anesthetic near specific nerves, such as the occipital nerve at the back of the head. These targeted injections provide quick and effective pain relief by numbing the nerves that typically cause migraine pain.
While professional treatment is essential, there are a few things you can do at home to help manage your migraines:
Migraines are no ordinary headaches. They’re a chronic condition that can affect your physical, emotional, and social well-being. But with the proper support and medical care, you don’t have to live in constant pain.
At SEPA Pain & Spine, we don’t just treat your migraines; we provide lifestyle guidance to help you regain control of your life.
Call us today to schedule a consultation at any of our offices in Horsham, Langhorne, Meadowbrook, Chalfont, East Norriton, or Limerick in southeastern Pennsylvania. You can also request one online here. We typically see patients within 24-48 hours.
