What is migraine?
Migraine is a disorder characterized by debilitating headaches. Diagnostic criteria include experiencing five or more unprovoked headaches that last between four and 72 hours. Those headaches alter the course of a normal day.
Migraine headaches are painful, so much so that they can make it impossible to focus on anything else until the pain subsides.
Additional symptoms include:
· Sensitivity to light
· Nausea or vomiting
· Blurry vision
· Visual disturbances
· Lightheadedness
It’s important to note that not everyone experiences all of these symptoms. In terms of head pain, the pain is not always throbbing, nor is it always focused on one side of your head.
What causes migraine?
Researchers are not certain of the exact cause of migraine, but believe that a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors play a causal role.
Migraine is thought to involve an imbalance in the brain chemicals that regulate pain. Changes in the way your brain stem interacts with your trigeminal nerve can also contribute to migraine.
Are there triggers for migraine headaches?
Many men and women who suffer migraines notice that certain substances, conditions, or experiences tend to bring on a headache. Identifying your personal triggers can help you avoid situations that increase your risk of a migraine headache.
Common triggers include:
· Changes in your sleep pattern
· Certain foods, especially salty or processed food
· Alcohol and caffeine
· Environmental changes
· Hormonal shifts
· Stress
Some migraine triggers are outside of your control, but others can be avoided or lessened with a bit of effort.
Are there medications for treating migraine?
Medication might be part of your individualized treatment plan. Some drugs work to prevent headaches, while others focus on reducing symptoms. There are even preventive medications that can reduce how frequently you have headaches, as well as how long and painful they are if they do occur.
Dr. Saeed has had great results with Aimovig, a new medication that prevents migraines. The drug works by blocking a type of chemical receptor believed to cause migraines. Aimovig is administered via a once-monthly injection in your abdomen, upper arm, or thigh.
Best of all, Aimovig has no known drug interactions or side effects, making it a preferred treatment approach. To learn more about this and other treatment options, book a consultation with Dr. Saeed online or by phone.