As anyone who has experienced a migraine knows, the severe headache can be debilitating. When a migraine strikes, most people are unable to participate in normal activities because of the intensity of the pain, as well as other symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light or sound. Studies show that migraines affect more than 42 million Americans. Although they are more common in adults ages 30 to 49, they can occur in people of all ages and ethnicities.
Dr. Gerard Dynes, a neurologist at The Baton Rouge Clinic, explained that migraines are among the most common reasons patients seek neurological treatment. For those whose migraines persist despite medication or increase in frequency, specialized care may be worth exploring. Dr. Dynes shares more information on migraine treatment and prevention.
What makes a migraine different from other types of headaches?
Migraines occur over and over again. It’s a pattern where the headaches may happen anywhere from once every few months to every day. They tend to be stronger and quite intense, often on one side of the head, although not always. The person may experience nausea or light or sound bothering them. They can often run in families and are more common in women. We’re always on the lookout for the indicators of migraines when people have headaches for weeks or months on end.
What types of migraine treatments are available?
Most people take over-the-counter medicines, but they are often not strong enough. That’s when they can begin to look at prescription medications. Today, there are a number of prescription medications available that are used to treat migraines. Talk to your doctor to discuss the treatment options and to develop the most effective plan for you and your health.
Is there anything people can do to try to prevent migraines?
It starts with diet. Not everybody has migraines that are triggered by foods, but maybe you can identify one that seems to really affect you. Certainly, exercise and regular sleep is important. We find that in addition to the usual triggers like hormones, stress or foods, the weather can also play a major role in the development of migraines.
The board-certified neurologists at The Baton Rouge Clinic are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system. These include headache disorders, seizure disorders, stroke and more. Visit batonrougeclinic.com/services/subspecialties/neurology/ to schedule an appointment.