The pain from migraines can be excruciating. Migraines are severe headaches that are generally recurring, and can last hours or days when left untreated. It’s a throbbing pain that can be triggered by any number of factors, and become aggravated by light, sound, physical activity, and other stimuli. In severe cases, migraines can affect your sensory abilities and vision. These are known as auras.
Causes of Migraine Headaches
Migraines are associated with changes to the brain, and genetic factors as well. Different people can have their migraines triggered by different stimuli such as lights, loud noises, or even physical activity. During your appointment, we conduct a neurological exams to get to the root of your migraines and to try to find your different triggers.
In some cases, migraines can be hereditary. By identifying your triggers, it may help in reducing the frequency in which you experience your migraines.
Migraine Symptoms
In addition to throbbing pain on one side, the center, or your entire head, other symptoms of migraines include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Losing your appetite
- Increased sensitivity to noise, light, and smells
- Blurred vision
Migraine Treatment
There are several different medications available to treat migraines. Depending on the severity, some patients are able to relieve their pain with over the counter medicine. However, if you’re experiencing frequent headaches, then more serious treatment might be needed and you should make an appointment as soon as possible.
There are also some medications that can be taken to help decrease the frequency of your migraines as well. Preventive medicine typically has to be taken on a regular basis. Some of the preventive and headache management treatments we offer include:
- Occipital nerve blocks for migraines acutely treated in the office
- Botox for migraine prevention
- IV treatments for acute migraines
One of the best defenses against migraines is identifying your triggers and avoiding them when possible. We work with patients (pediatric and adults) to identify their triggers using your medical history, examining your lifestyle, and utilizing Dr. Latimer’s extensive experience in headache relief and Pediatric Neurology.
If you experience migraines, and are tired of them altering your day-to-day activities, call the Latimer Neurology Center at (202) 625-4898 to schedule an appointment.