Treatment for Migraine Headaches in Coral Springs, FL

Migraines headaches can be very painful and vary in intensity and are often experienced with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. If you have been suffering from migraine headaches or have a family history of migraines, your physician will be able to diagnose and treat you to reduce or alleviate symptoms. If you’re tired of living with chronic migraines in the Coral Springs area, contact Optimize Medical today to schedule a consultation. Give us a call at 954-780-8685 or easily schedule an appointment online. 

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?

Triggers for migraine headaches vary from individual to individual and can be triggered by a variety of physical and environmental changes. 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. For some people, certain foods, food additives, and drinks can trigger migraine headaches. For this reason, patients experiencing migraines are sometimes advised to try avoiding foods with aspartame and monosodium glutamate (MSG), as well as salty foods to see if this improves the frequency or intensity of their migraines.

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 urgent medical 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

Treatments for Migraine Prevention 

Migraines can be debilitating, but if you have frequent migraines, fortunately there are several medication options that can help prevent them and reduce their severity and frequency. Some common options include:

  • Beta-Blockers: Originally developed to treat high blood pressure, they prevent migraines by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the physical effects of stress on the body, which can trigger migraines.
  • Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants help prevent migraines by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect mood and pain perception, thus helping to reduce the frequency of migraines.
  • Anti-Seizure Medications: Can help prevent migraines by calming overactive nerves in the brain. These medications are particularly useful for people who experience frequent or severe migraines.
  • CGRP Inhibitors: Work by blocking the activity of a molecule involved in migraine attacks. They are specifically designed to prevent migraines and have been shown to be highly effective.
  • Botox Injections: Botox injections, commonly known for their cosmetic use, are also approved for preventing chronic migraines. The injections help by relaxing muscles and blocking pain signals, offering relief for individuals who suffer from chronic migraines. 

Each of these medications works in different ways to help prevent migraines and improve the quality of life for those who suffer from them. If you experience frequent migraines, consult with one of our providers at Optimize Medical to discuss the best prevention strategy for you. 

Treatment for Acute 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 used sparingly in severe cases. 

Alternative Treatment for Migraines

If you prefer not to  take medication for your migraine headaches, more non-traditional therapies 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

Migraine Prevention

Living a healthy, relaxed lifestyle is important in controlling and preventing migraines. Performing exercises that promote muscle relaxation, getting sufficient sleep and rest can all help prevent migraine headaches. If you have any additional questions or concerns about diagnosing or treating migraines, call Optimize Medical today at 954-780-8685 or easily schedule an appointment online.

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