Migraines

What are migraines?

Migraines are intense, often one-sided headaches that can cause throbbing or pulsing pain and disrupt daily life. They may last for hours or even days and often worsen with light, sound, or physical activity. Treatment at Rapha Neurology and Neurocritical Care helps reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks, restoring your quality of life.

What are the symptoms of migraines?

Common migraine symptoms include:

• Severe or one-sided head pain
• Throbbing, pounding, or pulsing sensations
• Nausea
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Irritability or mood changes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Vision changes
• Muscle weakness
• Numbness or tingling
• Sensitivity to touch, sound, light, or odors

Migraine discomfort can last several hours or days and may worsen with strong odors, bright lights, loud noises, or overexertion.

What are the risk factors for migraines?

Migraine risk factors include:

• Stress
• Hormonal changes
• Certain medications
• Family history of migraines
• Weather changes
• Caffeine or alcohol
• Tobacco use
• Skipping meals or dehydration
• Eating certain foods or additives
• Being female
• Depression, anxiety, or epilepsy
  

About 12% of Americans experience migraines, often occurring two to four times per month.

How are migraines diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves reviewing your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle. Your provider may perform a physical and neurological exam and order diagnostic tests such as:

• Blood work
• Imaging scans (CT or MRI)
• Nerve or brain activity studies (EEG)

These tests help identify underlying causes and rule out other conditions.

How are migraines treated?

Migraine treatment at Rapha Neurology and Neurocritical Care focuses on prevention, symptom relief, and long-term management. Your plan may include:

• Healthy lifestyle changes
• Medication to stop or prevent migraines
• Botox® injections for chronic migraine and muscle contractures — to relax tight muscles, reduce pain frequency, and minimize tension
• Dietary modification and hydration support
• Limiting caffeine and alcohol
• Avoiding tobacco products
• Stress management

Rapha Neurology and Neurocritical Care provides comprehensive care and follow-up visits — in person or via telehealth — to ensure your treatment plan remains effective and personalized.

Find relief from chronic migraine pain. Schedule your in-person or virtual appointment today at Rapha Neurology and Neurocritical Care by calling the office or booking online.