August 19, 2021
At some point, you will likely deal with a headache that is painful, frustrating, and inconvenient. However, a standard headache is different from a migraine, which is a more severe issue. These periodic, temporary events can be debilitating and negatively affect your quality of life. Fortunately, with the help of a neurologist, you can take action to prevent issues.
What Is a Migraine?
Symptoms
Migraines involve recurring headaches of varying intensity, usually with throbbing or pulsing pain in one area of the head. Unlike a normal headache, you may also experience unusual mood changes, intense food cravings, persistent yawning, and increased fluid retention up to 24 hours before the onset of a migraine. Occasionally, you have an “aura” phase before or during an episode, during which you see bright or flashing lights or feel sudden muscle weakness. During a migraine, you may be more sensitive to light and noise, and even feel nauseous. Afterward, your body may be sore or fatigued.
Causes
Anyone can develop migraines, including children. However, it is more common among women. Certain types of migraines are also genetic and can run in families. While these headaches can occur at any time, many are preceded by a trigger. Common triggers include stress, loud noises, and hormonal changes. Alternatively, you may get a migraine after consuming a specific type of food, taking medication, or overexerting yourself physically.
Treatment
While there is no cure for migraines, you can minimize and prevent episodes. For example, a neurologist can order diagnostic testing to uncover the migraine source, as well as prescribe medications that can help prevent migraines and treat symptoms when they occur. Recording potential triggers and avoiding them, as well as getting a full night of sleep can help prevent episodes. When episodes do happen, you may find relief by drinking fluids and resting in a cool, dark room.
The average headache does not require a doctor’s visit, but if you are experiencing frequent headaches and using medication for them on a regular basis, Coryell Health neurologist Dr. Lakshmi Mukundan, MD, can help diagnose the type of headache and recommend pain reliving treatment. Dedicated to your continued whole health, Coryell Health assists with other sources of chronic pain—including arthritis, orthopedic conditions, and diabetes. Visit our website to learn more about our services, and call (254) 865-2166 to schedule an appointment.