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Migraine Q & A

What is a migraine?

A migraine is a severe type of headache that causes intense, throbbing pain on one side of the head. Migraine pain can last for several hours or days. The pain can also trigger increased sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and vomiting.

While the underlying cause of a migraine isn’t well understood, known triggers of this type of headache include:

  • Stress
  • Hormone changes
  • Lack of sleep
  • Changes in weather
  • Certain foods and food additives
  • Excessive use of caffeine or alcohol
  • Flashing lights or loud noises

You may also be at increased risk if you have a family history of migraines or are female.

When should I seek treatment for a migraine?

You should schedule a migraine evaluation at Neurology Specialists of Albuquerque if you experience frequent migraines or if your migraine pain isn’t something you can treat on your own.

Dr. Ownbey can evaluate the frequency and severity of your migraines. He can also perform a physical exam and order blood work and other lab tests to rule out other potential causes of your head pain.

Based on the results of your tests. Dr. Ownbey customizes a treatment plan that focuses on easing any existing pain you have and preventing recurrent migraines.

How are migraines treated?

When you’re not able to manage migraine pain with over-the-counter pain relievers, Dr. Ownbey may recommend prescription-strength medications. There are also several drugs available specifically for the treatment of migraine pain.

If you have 15 or more migraines a month, you may be a candidate for Botox therapy. Botox is an injectable prescription medication that can stop migraines before they start. Injections of Botox can provide results that last up to four months, so you only need between three and four injections a year to lower your risk for chronic migraines.

Throughout your treatment, Dr. Ownbey is able to use smaller amounts of Botox to prevent migraines from recurring. He offers treatments in-office that last 10 minutes or less and requires no downtime or recovery.

You don’t have to suffer from migraine pain in silence. Schedule a diagnostic evaluation for your migraine symptoms online or call Neurology Specialists of Albuquerque today.