What is a migraine?

A migraine is a complex neurological condition and type of headache that goes beyond the head discomfort of other headache types, such as cluster headaches or tension headaches. Not everyone gets migraines, but for those who do, they can happen quite frequently or very rarely. 

If you endure more than 15 migraine days per month, the condition is called chronic migraine. Since migraines are severe and often debilitating, chronic migraine can have a major impact on your life in numerous ways. 

The board-certified physicians at Pain Medicine Group specialize in headache and migraine relief. With their coordinated care, you can find out how to reduce the total number of migraines you get and find reliable methods to reduce the pain. 

What are some common migraine symptoms?

Migraine symptoms include head pain, which ranges from mild to severe. The head pain associated with migraines is localized to a single area and can have different characteristics such as throbbing, sharpness, or dullness. 

Migraines are not just headaches. In fact, their neurological effects can be very diverse. While people experience migraines differently, possible symptoms include:

• Light sensitivity
• Sensitivity to sound
• Nausea
• Vertigo
• Vomiting
• Faintness

Some people get what’s called a migraine aura, which is a phase that comes before the actual migraine sets in. Auras are very diverse, too, and can involve signs like neck pain, irritability, and fatigue. 

People who get migraines often get them in response to specific triggers, like chemicals, foods, or stress. Identifying and avoiding your triggers can help immensely in controlling your migraines and limiting the number you get.

How can I manage migraines?

Pain Medicine Group offers an array of state-of-the-art treatments to help you manage your migraines. After an initial assessment where they can learn about your migraines and what might cause them, your Pain Medicine Group providers recommend a conservative treatment regimen. 

An individualized migraine management plan at Pain Medicine Group involves one or more of the following approaches:

• Medications
• Massage therapy
• Trigger point injections
• Occipital nerve block

In addition to recommending and prescribing treatments, your provider can help you find ways to modify your lifestyle and reduce your exposure to identified migraine triggers. 

Learn more about the many treatment options for migraines by calling Pain Medicine Group or scheduling your pain management appointment online today.