Migraines

Migraines are recurring headaches and differ from headaches as they occur in stages and cause several symptoms. Migraines may have warning symptoms before their onset such as changes in light, smell, vision, and sound perception. Migraines may also occur with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, smell and sound. At this time, the precise cause of migraines is unknown. Migraines are characterized by mild to severe throbbing or pulsing headache.

To determine whether you are suffering from migraines or from another condition, your provider will start with a comprehensive medical review and physical exam to determine if you meet the criteria for diagnosis set forth by the International Headache Society. Diagnostic tests that include lab results and MRIs will also be reviewed.

Migraines may be treated in many ways including non-opioid adjuvant medications, nerve blocks, botox injections, and complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and chiropractic care. Migraines may be treated as part of a care team model involving pain psychology, pain management, neurology, and primary care specialties working together.