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migraines

Migraines

According to the American Migraine Foundation, more than 37 million Americans suffer from migraines.

What are migraines?

A migraine is known to cause throbbing pain that affects the head. Migraines can be moderate to severe, and for some, the pain comes and goes. Aside from migraine pain, other symptoms may be felt such as increased sensitivity to sound and light, vomiting, and nausea. It can occur in both men and women and usually starts during early adulthood.

Migraines are broadly categorized as episodic or chronic. Episodic migraines are those that occur less than 14 times per month. Migraines that occur for 15 days or more each month are considered chronic. Those who experience chronic migraines are more likely to feel that the condition lowers the overall quality of their life. These individuals tend to feel that the condition impairs them financially, relationally, and in other aspects of life.

What are the symptoms of migraines?

There are specific symptoms that occur before or during an attack. Some people also experience symptoms just before an attack occurs. A pins and needles sensation, vision phenomena, and uncontrollable movements are a few symptoms that may occur before a migraine. The most common signs before an attack are constipation, neck stiffness, mood changes, and increased thirst.

The most common symptoms are those felt during an attack. These include:

  • Throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head
  • Sensitivity to lights and sounds
  • Pulsing pain
  • Feeling lightheaded
  • Blurred vision
  • Nausea and vomiting

What causes migraines?

There is no exact cause of migraines. Experts say that they result from changes in the chemicals, blood vessels, and nerves in our brains. Genetics can also play a role. Although the cause of migraines may be unknown, there are several factors that can trigger them. They are as follows:

  • Stress
  • Lights
  • Food and drink
  • Fasting
  • Exercise
  • Hormonal changes
  • Sleep changes
  • Strong smells
  • Weather

How are migraines treated?

There is not permanent cure for migraines. Symptoms may be alleviated through migraine remedies and treatments. Painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can lessen migraine pain or make it go away altogether. Triptans and antiemetics are also used to treat migraines. However, consult your doctor before beginning any new medications.

During an attack, sleep and rest can help alleviate migraine symptoms. Since some people become sensitive to light and sound during an attack, it helps to rest in a dark, quiet room until symptoms subside.

A study conducted reported in Headache Journal discussed the potential effectiveness that acupuncture treatment may offer for migraines. There were 22 studies conducted over an eight-week period that involved 5000 patients. Overall, roughly 50% of patients reported some reduction in the frequency of headaches.

AZ Pain and Spine Institute
Migraines Treatments

Here at Arizona Pain and Spine Institute, we improve our patients’ quality of life by alleviating and managing their pain. Some of our Migraines treatments include:

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Why choose AZ Pain and Spine Institute to treat your Migraines?

We have a team of medical practitioners, pain management doctors, and staff who are experts on pain management, including Migraines. We use state-of-the-art technology and effective approaches in achieving our mission. We care about your well-being and are committed to making your life pain-free.