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Migraine headaches are a common and often debilitating condition that can significantly impact daily life. At DFW Spine Institute, our dedicated team of specialists is here to help diagnose and treat migraines, offering advanced and comprehensive care for patients in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.
A migraine is a type of headache characterized by throbbing, severe pain, usually on one side of the head.1 It is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can last for hours or even days, and the pain can be intense enough to interfere with daily activities.
Migraine symptoms can present in a variety of ways, which can vary in intensity and duration. Common symptoms include:2
The exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, but they are believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Common triggers that may lead to a migraine attack include:3
Diagnosing migraines involves a thorough evaluation of your medical history, symptoms, and a physical and neurological examination. Our doctors at DFW Spine Institute are specialists and may also recommend additional tests to rule out other causes of headache pain, such as:
Managing migraines often requires a multi-faceted approach. At DFW Spine Institute, we
offer a range of treatment options
tailored to your specific needs, including:
At DFW Spine Institute in North Texas, we are committed to helping our patients find migraine relief. Our experienced team of pain management and spine specialists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs. Contact our medical center in DFW, Texas, today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a migraine-free life.
Migraines are more than just severe headaches. They are a neurological condition characterized by intense, throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Regular headaches, such as tension headaches, cluster headaches, and chronic headaches typically involve mild to moderate pain and do not usually have these additional symptoms. Headache treatment for these types of head pain usually involves over-the-counter NSAIDs.
Migraines can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. The duration can vary from person to person and even from one migraine attack to another. It is essential to seek medical advice if you experience frequent or prolonged migraines.
Common triggers for migraines include stress, hormonal changes, certain foods and drinks (like aged cheese, alcohol, and caffeine), sleep disturbances, environmental changes, and sensory stimuli such as bright lights or strong smells. Identifying and avoiding your specific triggers can help manage the frequency of migraine attacks.
While migraines cannot always be prevented, their frequency and severity can often be reduced with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Preventive measures include maintaining a regular sleep schedule, managing stress, avoiding known triggers, and taking prescribed preventive medications.
Yes, migraines tend to run in families. If you have close relatives who suffer from migraines, you may be more likely to experience them yourself. However, the exact genetic factors involved are still being studied.
You should consider seeing a specialist if your migraines are frequent and severe, or you do not find pain relief from over-the-counter treatments. Additionally, if you experience sudden, severe headaches or any new neurological symptoms (such as vision changes, speech difficulties, or weakness), seek medical attention immediately.
Yes, children can experience migraines, although their symptoms may differ from those of adults. Children often experience shorter migraine attacks and may have symptoms such as abdominal pain or dizziness. If your child is experiencing frequent or severe headaches, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.
To make the most of your appointment, keep a migraine diary to track the frequency, duration, and triggers of your head pain. Note any other symptoms you experience, as well as any medications or treatments you have tried. This information will help your specialist develop an effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Can lifestyle changes really help with migraines?
Yes, lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing migraines. Regular sleep patterns, a healthy diet, stress management, and avoiding known triggers can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Combining these changes with medical treatments can lead to better overall migraine management.
1Cleveland Clinic. Migraine Headaches. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5005-migraine-headaches. Accessed June 27, 2024.
2Mayo Clinic. Migraine. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/symptoms-causes/syc-20360201. Accessed June 27, 2024.
3National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Migraine. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/migraine. Accessed June 27, 2024.
4Johns Hopkins Medicine. Botulinum Toxin Injectables for Migraines. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/botulinum-toxin-injectables-for-migraines. Accessed June 27, 2024.
The Doctors at DFW Laser Spine Institute have either authored or reviewed and approved this content.
