If you have ever experienced a migraine, you’ll know that the extraordinary pain is like no other headache. We’ve had patients come in with migraines who were in so much pain they could not open their eyes, could not drive, could barely get out of bed. In some cases, they were convinced they had a brain tumor or blood clot that was causing the pain because it was so severe. Migraines can last a few hours to a few days.
A migraine is a specific type of headache that typically centers on one side of the head. It is extremely painful and can be quite debilitating. There are many different triggers that can cause a migraine, and migraines may be genetic. However, no one knows exactly what causes migraines. Some people know they are getting a migraine because they experience an aura beforehand. A migraine aura can be experienced as any kind of sensory disturbance – flashing light, tingling fingers, or even numbness in the face just prior to the onset of the migraine.
There are many triggers that can cause a migraine. For some people, it is sugar consumption; for others a lack of sleep or a change in sleep patterns. Some people get migraine from seasonal changes – humidity, temperature, biometric pressure. Still others get migraines from certain medications or from consuming alcohol. Some women experience migraines in connection with their menstrual cycles. Some people are triggered by more than one thing, while others have no idea what triggers their migraines.
A study completed in Denmark discovered a strong connection between migraines and other neurological issues including brain lesions. They determined that more than two-thirds of migraine sufferers who experience an aura also had brain lesions. Italian researchers discovered a connection between migraines and cortex thickness. And another study has made a connection between migraines and Parkinson’s disease. More research is needed to understand the full impact on the brain from migraines.
If you suffer from migraines or other debilitating headaches, make an appointment today with Complete Neurological Care throughout NYC and NJ. We’ll diagnose or rule out the presence of a concussion and ensure that you receive the best possible care.