Migraines

A migraine is a type of primary head, which is characterized by a pulsing sensation and severe throbbing pain that can last from 4 to 72 hours. It is categorized as a primary headache because it is not based on other medical conditions. Migraines are also often accompanied by nausea and extreme sensitivity. The symptoms may progress through four stages known as prodrome, aura, headache and postdrome. Aura refers to the visual disturbance in the form of flashing lights, temporary loss of vision or zigzag lines that precede migraine episodes. People diagnosed with migraine can tell they are about to have an attack based on these signs. Migraine occurs based on factors such as hormonal changes, stress, sleep or food deprivation, among others.

Preventive medication and lifestyle changes are effective ways treating or managing migraine symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as physical exercise, relaxation and avoiding specific identifiable triggers have proven effective in dealing with the condition. Simple over-the-counter analgesics like aspirin, combination analgesics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories are able to relieve mild migraines. However, irrespective of the severity of your migraine consult to your doctor for advice on appropriate treatment. At Heritage Neurology, we treat migraine on an individual basis, tailored to each patient’s needs with the aim of overcoming the discomfort on a long-term basis.