Migraine Therapy Can Improve Your Quality of Life

Migraine headaches usually fall into one of two types: a migraine occurring with an aura (formerly known as a "classic" migraine) and a migraine occurring without an aura (formerly known as a "common" migraine).  Auras are sensory warning signs such as blind spots, flashes of light or tingling in the leg or arm that can precede or accompany these chronic headaches.

Other common symptoms include moderate to severe pain on one or both sides of the head, pain that has a pulsating quality, pain that gets worse with physical activity, light and sound sensitivity and nausea with or without vomiting.  If a migraine is left untreated, it can last from four to 72 hours.

The cause of migraines isn't yet clearly understood, but environmental factors as well as genetics seem to both play a role.  There are also several things that may trigger them including stress, certain kinds of foods such as alcohol, chocolate and aged cheese, female hormonal changes, certain medications, changes in sleep patterns and more.

Sufferers can experience migraines only once every few years, or as frequently as several times a week.  Sometimes migraines can be so severe that they interfere with a person's normal routine.

You should see a doctor immediately or go to the emergency room if you experience other signs which accompany a headache such as weakness, fever, numbness, rash, stiff neck, confusion or double vision--or if the headache follows a head injury, coughing, sudden movement or exertion.

The goal of migraine therapy is to prevent headaches, reduce their frequency and severity and improve quality of life.  The migraine therapy offered at Allegheny Medical is a safe, conservative and proven method of treatment.  Call today to find out more about how we can help improve the quality of your life: (412) 494-4554.