Migraines are considered to be one of the most common forms of headaches and vary in intensity affecting about 35 million Americans. Migraines are more prevalent in women. The pain is often extremely severe and symptoms are more intense and debilitating compared to a normal headache. People who suffer from this painful condition are frequently sensitive to light and sound. Many sufferers also often reported feelings of nausea and vomiting. Migraines can cause debilitating pain that can leave suffers in discomfort for a long time.
Common Causes of Migraines
Genetic appears to be a key component to migraines. Like other forms of headaches, migraine headaches can develop from various factors or triggers. Some of the most common causes of this condition include:
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Physical or emotional stress
- Irregular sleeping pattern
- Hormonal fluctuations in women
- Allergic reactions
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Caffeine
- Meal-skipping or fasting
Other possible triggers include weather changes, overexertion, dehydration, or exposure to smoke and other odors.
Types of Treatments for Migraines
Although migraines can’t be permanently cured, they can be managed and improved. Migraines can be treated by either preventative or abortive medications.
Here’s what you should know about each type of treatment.
Abortive Treatments
Abortive treatments involve taking medications immediately after the onset of the headache. It’s most effective when used at the first sign of a migraine and when the pain is still mild. Abortive medications help decrease or stop migraine symptoms such as pain, nausea, and light sensitivity.
Over-the-counter treatments:
- NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Aspirin
- Acetaminophen
- Combination products-Excedrin
Specific migraine therapy:
- Triptans
- CGRP antagonists-Nurtec ODT, Ubrelvy, Reyvow
- Prescription NSAIDs-Cambia, Ketoralac
- DHE
- Anti-nausea drugs
Preventative Treatments
Preventive treatments involve taking medications to help avoid the occurrence of a migraine. Preventive medication doesn’t eliminate headaches but helps reduce the length, severity, and frequency of the condition. These medications are usually prescribed when your migraines are severe and are significantly interfering with your daily activities. Preventive medications help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. Medications are usually taken daily to help prevent migraines.
- Blood pressure lowering medications-Beta blockers, Calcium channel blockers
- Antidepressants
- Anti-seizure drugs
- Botox injections-every 12 weeks
- CGRP monoclonal antibodies
- Aimovig
- Ajovy
- Emgality
- Vyepti
Contact Headache TMJ – Los Angeles Pain Clinic Today
Migraines can prevent people from enjoying life. This extremely painful condition can prevent suffers from focusing on work, relationships, or enjoying daily activities. If you are experiencing migraines, contact our clinic so we can provide you with a diagnosis and treatment options. Headache TMJ – Los Angeles Pain Clinic provides the best treatment services for patients suffering from complex head, face, mouth, temporomandibular joint, neck pain, snoring, or other related symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. Our clinic serves patients in Los Angeles and Santa Monica. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
