Migraine
A migraine is an extreme form of headache that may cause severe symptoms lasting for hours to days at a time.
Symptoms of a Migraine
A migraine can be divided into four stages: prodrome, aura, attack, and post-drome. Each stage has unique symptoms.
Symptoms of prodrome:
Constipation
Mood changes, ranging from depression to euphoria
Food cravings
Neck stiffness
Frequent urination
Fluid retention
Increased yawning
Symptoms of aura:
Visual phenomena, or seeing shapes, bright spots, or flashes of light
Vision loss
Difficulty speaking
Feeling of pins and needles sensations in the arm or leg
Weakness or numbness in the face or one side of the body
Symptoms of attack:
Pain on one or both sides of the head
Pain that throbs or pulses
Sensitivity to light, sound, and possibly smell and touch
Nausea
Vomiting
Symptoms of post-drome:
Feeling drained
Confusion
Weakness
Feeling elated
Brief pain caused by certain movements
Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience:
An abrupt, severe headache that feels like a thunderclap
Headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, double vision, numbness, or weakness in part of the body (this could indicate a stroke)
Headache after a head injury
Chronic headache that worsens after coughing, exertion, straining, or sudden movement
New headache pain that emerges after age 50
Causes of a Migraine
A migraine may be triggered by:
Hormonal changes, such as fluctuations in estrogen
Hormonal medications
Alcoholic drinks
Caffeinated drinks
Stress
Bright or flashing lights
Loud sounds
Strong smells, such as paint thinner, secondhand smoke, and perfume
Changes in sleep patterns
Intense physical activity
Changes in weather
Medications, such as oral contraceptives and vasodilators
Processed foods and aged cheeses
Skipping meals
Food additives, such as sweeteners and preservatives
Treatment Options
Patients suffering from migraines can experience lasting pain relief after treatment with injections and pain management techniques.
A few types of joint and soft tissue injections offered at Premier Urgent Care include nerve blocks and trigger point injections. Patients should speak to their physician to find out if they might benefit from a joint and soft tissue injection.
Pain management techniques can also help patients minimize pain and alleviate their migraine. Techniques may include cold and heat therapy, deep breathing exercises, cognitive behavior therapy, gentle exercise, physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, biofeedback, music therapy, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication.
Advanced Treatment
Migraines caused by underlying health conditions may require advanced treatment. Premier Urgent Care supports patients needing a range of treatments. Staff is available to answer any questions about obtaining advanced treatment.
OPEN HOURS
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
APPOINTMENTS
Call us to schedule
an appointment at
EMERGENCY SERVICES
We provide
emergency services
7 DAYS A WEEK!
OPEN HOURS
Monday - Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
APPOINTMENTS
EMERGENCY SERVICES
emergency services
7 DAYS A WEEK!
