Migraine Headaches

If you have been suffering from migraine headaches or have a family history of migraines, your physician will be able to diagnose you based on this history. Migraines headaches can be very painful and vary in intensity and are often experienced with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.

The urgent care providers at Good Hope Medical are here to help patients experiencing symptoms of reoccurring migraines. To determine the migraine treatment option best for you, please call (256) 615-2055 and visit our urgent care center in Cullman, AL today! Meet with a provider to discuss the importance of living a balanced lifestyle and preventing migraines.

Symptoms of Migraines

There are several variations of symptoms a person can experience during a migraine headache. Here are some of the most common that are experienced:

• Pounding and throbbing pain that can affect the entire head, this pain can be moderate to severe
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach
• Loss of appetite
• Blurred vision
• Lightheadedness

What triggers migraines?

Hormone changes in women can trigger migraines, especially before or during their periods, which is when a big drop in estrogen occurs.

It is also important to watch what you eat or drink. Certain foods, food additives, and drinks can trigger migraine headaches. It is advised to avoid foods with aspartame and monosodium glutamate (MSG), as well as salty foods.

Changes in the environment and stress have also been shown to trigger migraines. A sudden change of weather or barometric pressure can affect those who are sensitive to these changes.

People who have more stressful lifestyles are more prone to migraines. Relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation may help ease the pain and frequency of migraines.

When to seek professional treatment

Some symptoms being experienced may require you to seek immediate treatment by a doctor.

• An abrupt, severe headache
• A headache with a fever, seizures, numbness or trouble speaking
• A headache after a head injury
• A chronic headache that is worse after coughing

Treatment for Migraines

Seeking treatment for migraine headaches can help ease symptoms and prevent future attacks. There are plenty of pain-relieving medications and preventative medications that your physician may recommend or prescribe:

• Pain Relievers: such as aspirin or ibuprofen may be recommended to help treat mild migraines
• Triptans: a medication used often in treating migraines by making the blood vessels constrict and block pain pathways to the brain
• Ergots: a combination of ergotamine and caffeine, which is recommended for those who experience the symptoms for more than 48 hours
• Anti-Nausea Medications: this is typically combined with other medications
• Opioid medications: for those who cannot handle triptans or ergots, opioid medications may be recommended

Alternative Treatment for Migraines

If you are opposed to taking medication for your migraine headaches, a more non-traditional therapy may help ease the symptoms of your headache.

• Acupuncture
• Biofeedback: a relaxation technique that used special equipment to help you monitor and control stress
• Massage Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: this type of psychotherapy teaches you how behaviors and thoughts affect how you perceive pain
• Herbs, Vitamins, and Minerals