Migraine

A migraine is a common neurological condition that can cause throbbing pain, typically on one side of your head. Although the exact cause for migraines is not fully known, there are ways to manage them and reduce their impact on your life.

Stages & Symptoms of Condition 

Migraines typically develop in a series of stages. However, individual experiences can and will vary, meaning not all will experience each stage in the progression of a migraine.

These stages generally include the following:

Prodrome

Prodrome is the first stage of a migraine, acting as an early warning system that can occur hours or days before the headache. Common symptoms include difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and unusual cravings. 

• Difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Increased hunger & thirst
• Mood changes
  

Aura

Aura refers to the sensory symptoms associated with migraines, including seeing flashes of light or ringing in the ears. This migraine stage may occur right before or during the headache and usually lasts no more than an hour.

• Muscle weakness
• Vision changes
• Tinnitus
• Sensitivity to touch
• Numbness & Tingling
• Difficulty speaking/ concentrating
  

Headache

During a migraine headache, you have intense throbbing head pain that might cause sensitivity to light or nausea and vomiting. The headache stage of a migraine may last as little as four hours or as long as 72 hours.

• Nausea/ vomiting
• Light, sound, and odor sensitivity 
  

Postdrome

Once your headache resolves, you may enter the postdrome stage. You may feel worn out, depressed, or euphoric during this stage of your migraine; these may last a day or two.

• Mood changes
• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sensitivity to light/ sound
  

Diagnosis & Treatment

Knight Neurology provides comprehensive migraine evaluations. Your visit will include a detailed discussion of your symptoms, a neurological exam, and potentially a referral for a CT scan or MRI to rule out other conditions.

We collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan aimed at reducing the frequency and severity of your migraines, helping you regain control and improve your symptoms. 

Your plan may include:

• Medications to stop or reduce migraine pain (triptans, over-the-counter drugs).
  
• Medications to prevent migraines (calcium-channel blockers, antidepressants).
  
• Establishing a healthy diet, exercise and bedtime routine.

Knight Neurology also offers botulinum toxin treatments for people with chronic migraines. Schedule an appointment with your physician to discuss your migraine symptoms, potential triggers, and discover if this is the right fit for you.

Don’t let your migraine headaches keep you from living your life; call Knight Neurology or schedule an appointment online today.