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Migraine

More than 38 million Americans suffer from migraines that disrupt their everyday lives. A customized treatment and management plan can reduce your pain and frequency of migraines, restoring your quality of life.

What is a Migraine?

A migraine is a neurological condition that typically manifests as severely debilitating headaches. Migraines can affect one or both sides of your head. While migraines typically result in a headache, all headaches are not signs of a migraine

Migraines typically last longer than standard headaches, and impending migraines also have warning signs such as changes in vision or sensitivity to light and sound. They can also be accompanied by a variety of disruptive symptoms including:

  • Impaired or blurred vision
  • Nausea
  • Sensitivity to light, sound or fragrance
  • Visual disturbances such as halos or auras
  • Vomiting

What Causes a Migraine?

While a specific cause of migraines hasn’t been identified, current research indicates that hormonal and neurological imbalances may trigger them. They can also be triggered by changes in temperature, certain foods or allergies. Your risk of developing migraines is higher if there is a family history of them.

How Are They Treated?

Following an in-depth consultation, physical exam and testing, your doctor will assemble a customized treatment plan to reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines and possibly eliminate them altogether.

Our state-of-the-art treatments, including biofeedback, radiofrequency ablation procedures and Botox® injections, work to repair or seal off the neural pathways that transmit the pain signals resulting in your migraines. Your doctor may also prescribe intravenous infusions and magnetic stimulation to provide further relief.

If prescribed Botox® injections, before your injection appointment you will need to verify that your insurance is accepted by our specialty pharmacy. Once you have been authorized to receive treatment, the pharmacy will ship the medication to our Brain and Spine office where it is properly stored until your appointment.

How Can They Be Prevented?

An experienced neurologist can help you identify your migraine triggers, allowing you to make lifestyle changes to reduce your exposure. Following a healthy, balanced diet with daily exercise can improve your overall wellness and reduce your risk of health conditions that can exacerbate your migraines.

FAQS

How long can a migraine last?

Migraines can last anywhere from 4 hours to 72 hours if untreated. It’s important to remember that everyone experiences migraines differently. Some may encounter severe pain that’s debilitating, while others may experience a dull, constant ache. Frequent or severe migraines warrant medical attention from a specialist, like Brain & Spine, with a deep understanding of neurological conditions.

When should I see a doctor for headaches?

If your headaches are frequent, severe, accompanied by other symptoms like confusion, fever, or sensory changes, it’s time to see a healthcare professional. A headache that is significantly different from the types of headaches you’ve had before, or the worst headache you’ve ever had, should be evaluated urgently. As specialists in brain and spine conditions, we are well-equipped to assess and treat various types of headaches.

Where is Botox injected for migraines?

Botox for migraines is usually injected into several areas of the head and neck, including the forehead, temples, back of the head, neck, and upper back. It’s a complex process that needs to be performed by a trained healthcare professional, and we are happy to offer this service if you are deemed to be a candidate by our doctors.

How are migraines diagnosed?

Migraines are diagnosed using a combination of methods. A detailed medical history, description of symptoms, and a physical and neurological examination are all crucial components. Sometimes, additional tests such as MRI or CT scans may be needed to rule out other causes of the symptoms. Diagnosing migraines can be complex, and may require a thorough evaluation by our specialists.

How can I get Botox for migraines covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage for Botox as a treatment for migraines varies by provider. It’s important to contact your insurance company directly to understand your coverage. Often, prior authorization is needed, which requires documentation of the medical necessity of the treatment from your healthcare provider.

Can showering help headaches?

Hot or cold showers can help some people with their headaches or migraines. The change in temperature can have a positive effect on the tension in your muscles, potentially offering relief. Everyone is different though, so it’s important to find what works best for you.

What vitamin deficiency causes migraines?

Some studies suggest that deficiencies in certain vitamins, like magnesium, vitamin D, and certain B vitamins, may be linked to migraines. However, more research is needed to fully understand this connection.

What is an ocular migraine?

An ocular migraine refers to a type of migraine that causes visual disturbances, including temporary blindness or visual loss in one eye. These are usually temporary and can be a precursor to a migraine headache.

What doctor do you see for migraines?

Typically, you would see a neurologist or headache specialist for migraines, such as the doctors at Brain & Spine. Our healthcare professionals specialize in conditions that affect the brain and nervous system, including migraines. We can provide a comprehensive approach to managing your migraines, including exploring preventive strategies and acute treatments. We have specialists with deep expertise in diagnosing and treating migraines, ensuring you receive the most effective and tailored care.