When you feel pain or pressure in your head, it can be difficult to tell if you are suffering from a headache or a migraine episode. Differentiating migraine pain from other types of headaches is important for the most effective pain relief techniques.
Headaches are common and can be caused by a variety of factors such as tension, dehydration, or sinus issues. They are often described as a dull, aching sensation that can affect both sides of the head. Although headaches typically last anywhere from 5 minutes to 4 hours, migraine pain can last for days or even longer.
How do you know if your pain is a headache or a migraine attack? Migraine episodes are typically more intense and last longer than normal headaches, including symptoms like:
- Increased pain with regular physical activity
- Nausea or dizziness
- Sensitivity to light and sounds
- Severe, pulsating pain, typically on one side of the head
Migraine attacks can disrupt daily activities, interfering with overall quality of life. Identifying potential causes and symptoms helps in effectively preventing and managing migraine pain.
Many people who experience migraines often have triggers that lead to the onset of a migraine attack. These can include:
- Alcohol
- Caffeine overuse
- Lack of Sleep
- Skipping Meals
- Stress
If you find that lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications are not effective in managing your migraine episodes, it may be time to seek further treatment. Chronic migraine pain can be difficult to endure, but specialized services can offer significant relief.
Southwest Health’s Interventional Pain team is offering a new service that helps adults suffering from chronic migraines. Talented and dedicated Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner Martha Levy, DNP, uses her experience and critical thinking skills to work with patients suffering from migraines and other chronic pain syndromes.
Levy is now offering a 30-minute Vyepti IV infusion used for the prevention of chronic migraines in adults. Patients can feel relief as soon as the first day of their infusion with preventative treatments administered every 12 weeks in Southwest Health’s outpatient Infusion Center.
Patients suffering from migraines will need to seek a referral from their primary care provider before seeking any migraine prevention treatment.
Don’t have a Primary Care Provider? Call Southwest Health’s Family Medicine at 608.348.4330 to get established!
