Migraine

Up to 10% of the global population experiences migraine headaches. If you’re one of them, and your headaches affect your quality of life, it’s crucial to seek treatment. At Pain Medicine of the South, the team of interventional pain management specialists boasts years of experience diagnosing and treating migraines. They can help you feel better using minimally invasive treatments and healthy lifestyle changes. To make an appointment, call the office in Knoxville, Tennessee, or book online today.

What is a migraine?

A migraine is a severe headache that causes intense pain, nausea, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can last for hours or even days, preventing you from work, exercise, or restful sleep.

There’s no cure for migraines, but there are treatments that can relieve uncomfortable symptoms and reduce their frequency. When combined with routine checkups, trigger avoidance, and healthy lifestyle changes, you can return to your favorite activities.

What are the symptoms of a migraine?

Symptoms of a migraine include:

• Weakness or numbness in the face
• Throbbing pain on one side of your head
• Sensitivity to light
• Nausea and vomiting
• Feeling drained 
• Feeling confused
• Difficulty speaking

If you experience any of these symptoms several times a month and they affect your quality of life, make an appointment with the team at Pain Medicine of the South.

What causes migraine headaches?

Doctors aren’t entirely sure what causes migraine headaches, but several factors, including your genetics and the environment, may contribute. 

One thing’s certain –– encountering specific triggers increases your likelihood of a migraine headache. Common migraine triggers include alcohol, stress, sleep deprivation, and hormonal changes in women.

How are migraines diagnosed?

To diagnose migraine headaches, your Pain Medicine of the South provider reviews your medical records and asks about your headaches, including how often they occur, what they feel like, and if certain triggers seem to make them worse.

Next, your provider completes a physical exam and a neurological exam. They also order CT scans or an MRI to look for other underlying problems that might present similar symptoms, like a brain tumor or a blood clot.

How are migraine headaches treated?

Treatment of migraine headaches depends on your age, the severity of your symptoms, and their effect on your quality of life. Sometimes, trigger avoidance is enough to provide lasting relief. For example, steering clear of alcoholic or caffeinated beverages can make a big difference.

You might also benefit from prescribed medication, such as:

• Triptans
• Migraine relief medications
• Lasmiditan
• CGRP antagonists
• Anti-nausea drugs
• Opioid medications
• Blood pressure-lowering medications
• Anti-seizure drugs
• Antidepressants

You might also benefit from Botox® injections. Though Botox is known as a cosmetic injectable, it can also relieve muscle tension in your cheeks, face, and forehead.

To book an appointment to learn more about treatment options for migraine headaches, call Pain Medicine of the South today or click the online booking feature.