Migraine Headaches

If you suffer from migraines, you know just how painful they can get. They cause intense pain combined with a pulsing feeling. It’s often concentrated on one side of the head. Along with the pain comes a sensitivity to both light and sound, nausea, and even vomiting. Therefore, it’s a very uncomfortable experience for those who suffer from the condition. Luckily, there are treatments available to reduce symptoms and have you back on your feet in no time.

Symptoms and Progression

People usually find out that they suffer from migraines in childhood or adolescence, although young adults can be diagnosed, as well. The headache generally progresses through four phases, although not everyone goes through every single phase or experiences the same sensations within those phases. They include prodrome, aura, headache, and post-drome.

The prodrome stage occurs one to two days before the headache begins. During this period, you might experience noticeable changes in mood, stiffness in the neck, specific food cravings, an increase in both urination and thirst, and frequent yawning. All of these symptoms can indicate that a migraine is on its way.

The aura phase is less common, and many people who get migraines never progress through this step. During this time, which can occur both before and after the actual headache, you might start to get visual disturbances, such as flashes of light or zigzags. You may hear voices or music or even lose your vision. It’s also possible to feel weak or limp.

During the actual headache, sufferers will experience pain, sensitivity, blurred vision, and all the other symptoms that are typically associated with migraines. This attack can last for four hours up to 72 hours, especially if it is left untreated.

In the post-drome stage, you will likely feel tired, exhausted, or moody. However, some people also report feeling elated after the pain has subsided.

Get Help from a Doctor

Because migraine symptoms can vary from sufferer to sufferer, migraines often go undiagnosed. If you think you may be suffering from this condition, you should start keeping a journal of your migraine incidents. This can help your doctor better diagnose you, which will allow you to get the help you need. There are a variety of treatment options you can explore with your doctor, and it may take some trial and error to find the right one for you.

For most people, reducing migraine frequency and pain means making some lifestyle changes. Maintaining a consistent daily schedule, exercising, and a reduction in estrogen-producing drugs can all help you gain control of your migraines. You may also have to avoid certain substances or activities that trigger your migraines. These may include stress, certain types of food, alcohol, or specific food additives. Again, keeping a migraine journal can help you make connections between incidents so you can find out what triggers your episodes.

Prime Medical Associates is a top healthcare provider in Dartmouth, Massachusetts. Let us help you handle your migraines. You don’t have to suffer in silence.