How to Relieve Your Migraine Symptoms

Do you suffer from throbbing headaches preceded by visual problems, nausea, or vomiting? These symptoms often indicate a migraine, a debilitating headache of somewhat mysterious origins. At Winchester Neurological Consultants in Winchester, VA, our team of five board-certified neurologists listen to headache patients and take their problems seriously. Read on to learn some steps you can take to relieve your migraine symptoms.

What is a migraine?

Usually focused in one area of the head, a painful migraine throbs, sickens the stomach, and disturbs vision. Many people also say they see flashing lights, spots, or zig-zag lines before a migraine begins. Neurologists call these precursory signs an "aura."Additionally, some migraines are so intense they make people lose time from work and school as well as interrupt family life.

More women than men experience migraines, indicates the MRF, to a staggering ratio of 8.5 women to 1 man. Some researchers believe that the hormonal fluctuations associated with the child-bearing years make women more prone to migraines. Additionally, there seems to be a hereditary component. In other words, migraines run in families.

Relieving migraines

Key to successful management of your migraines is the identification of specific triggers. For instance, some people notice their migraines develop after eating certain foods, such as chocolate or cheese. Others experience these headaches after being touched or seeing bright and/or flashing lights. If you can control these triggers, you may limit the number of migraine episodes you have, along with their severity.

Additional migraine treatment strategies offered by our Winchester office include:

  • Medications such as beta-blockers, anti-depressants, and anti-seizure drugs
  • Sitting in a dark room, avoiding light and motion
  • Massage therapy
  • Injections of BOTOX, a refined form of the botulism toxin which restricts the movement of muscles in the face, scalp and jaw
  • Getting regular and adequate sleep
  • Reducing stress
  • Losing weight if you are obese

Fewer migraine days

It can happen when you and your neurologist work together on a customized care plan. Please contact Winchester Neurological Consultants for a consultation in our migraine clinic: (540) 667-1828.

Winchester Neurological Consultants

Office Hours

DOORS OPEN AT 8:15AM

Monday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed