They can be exhausting, but at INTEGRIS Health, we get it – and we’re with you. There’s a lot we can work on together to get your migraines under control and sometimes even ward off migraines altogether.
The defining feature that separates migraines from other types of headaches is that symptoms other than pain occur with it. You might experience nausea and vomiting, lightheadedness, sensitivity to light or other visual disturbances. Migraines are also unique in that they have distinct phases. That can last up to 72 hours.
The phases of a migraine headache may include a change in mood or behavior that may occur hours or days before the headache. This is called the premonition phase. Some people also notice a strange aura or visual, sensory or motor symptoms that occur just before the headache. This includes hallucinations, numbness, changes in speech, visual changes, and muscle weakness. This is known as the aura phase, and transitions into the actual migraine, which is characterized by sensitivity to light, motion and sound, a severe throbbing headache as well as depression, fatigue and anxiety.
The whole ordeal can be exhausting, but at INTEGRIS Health, we get it – and we're with you. There's a lot we can work on together to get your migraines under control, alleviate the symptoms and sometimes even ward off migraines altogether.
To get an accurate diagnosis, it is important to describe your migraine symptoms to your doctor. It's also helpful to track when migraines occur (such as dates and times) and the details associated with migraine headaches. These are the most common symptoms of migraine headaches:
Before
During
As the Migraine Resolves
Migraine headaches are diagnosed based on your symptoms and a physical exam. You may need other tests or procedures to rule out underlying diseases or conditions.
Tracking and sharing information about your headache with your doctor helps with the process of making an accurate diagnosis. Consider writing down the following information to take to your medical appointment:
Diagnostic tests that may be used include the following:
Specific treatment for migraine headaches will be determined based on your age, overall health and medical history as well as type, severity and frequency of your migraines, your tolerance for medications and your personal preferences. Treatments may include:
When a Migraine Strikes:
We strive to provide you with care that’s not only the best available, but care that’s convenient and as close to home as possible. These INTEGRIS Health locations near you are ready to help.
