Those who experience migraines know they can cause severe pain that can interfere with your daily life. Migraines can cause serious throbbing pain on one side of the head and last anywhere between a few hours to a few days.
At AFC Urgent Care Paramus, we want you to feel your best no matter what. That is why our team of medical professionals is dedicated to helping you receive the resources and treatment you need. Visit our center today on a walk-in basis to learn more about ways to improve your health.
Symptoms of Migraines
Migraines have four different stages, but it’s possible for a patient not to experience all of them. The four stages are prodrome, aura, attack, and post-drome. Prodrome symptoms can occur a few days before the actual migraine. This includes frequent yawning, mood changes, or food cravings.
The aura stage often involves visual symptoms. This stage can occur before or during a migraine, and most symptoms build up over time and last 20 minutes to an hour. Symptoms include seeing bright spots or flashes of light, pins, and needles in the arms or legs, difficulty speaking, or hearing noise or music.
The attack is the actual migraine. This involves pain on one or both sides of the head that throbs or pulses, sensitivity to light, and nausea. The attack stage can last up to 3 days if left untreated.
Lastly, postdrome is the final stage of a migraine. This can leave the patient feeling drained and confused. In addition, a sudden movement of the head and neck may trigger pain again in this stage.
Migraine Triggers & Risk Factors
Migraines can be triggered by several factors. For example, hormonal changes, alcohol or caffeine, stress, sleep changes, physical changes, weather, medications, or food can all trigger migraines in patients.
Additionally, some factors may make you more prone to migraines in general. Risk factors include a family history of migraines, being female, age, and hormonal changes.
Treatment for Migraines
Pain relief medication can be used to help lessen the symptoms of migraines. Over-the-counter medication can be used, as well as prescriptions from a medical provider. In cases of frequent migraines, preventative medication can also be prescribed. Be sure to speak with your doctor about any health concerns.
At home, you may be able to help prevent migraines by developing and sticking to a regular sleep schedule, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly.
