A migraine can make it next to impossible to work, manage household responsibilities or do just about anything else. That’s something you may know all too well if you’ve experienced these severe headaches. Here’s what else you should know: Migraines are manageable, and a variety of options are available today to treat them. Get checked out If you haven’t done so yet, your first step should be to see a neurologist. Based on your symptoms, they can usually tell if you’re having migraines. Migraines tend to involve intense bouts of throbbing pain, often on one side of the head. Migraine episodes can last for several hours or even days. During a migraine attack, many people get an upset stomach. Lights, sounds and movement can make a migraine worse. Many people have also experienced visual disturbances, called auras, prior to getting a migraine. They might see flashing lights or heat waves. Medicines for migraines Some medicines treat migraine attacks when they occur, while others help prevent migraines in the first place. And while you may know Botox injections as a wrinkle treatment, they can be another option for preventing migraines. Lifestyle changes In addition to prescribing medicines, your neurologist may suggest lifestyle changes that may help you manage migraines, such as: • Keeping a regular sleep schedule. • Avoiding migraine triggers. Those might be things like certain foods and drinks, stress, loud sounds, bright lights, or strong smells. Keeping a journal of what you were eating and doing when you got a migraine can help you identify triggers. • Losing excess weight, if you’re overweight. • Exercising and finding other ways to manage stress. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Get help for migraines “Understanding migraines is a journey, and they can be a dominant force in someone’s day-to-day life. Treating headaches and chronic migraines isn’t just about alleviating pain, it’s about improving my patients’ quality of life and helping them regain control over their health.” —Zara Fatima, MD, Neurologist Call 402-844‑8166 to schedule an appointment for your headaches or chronic migraines. FRHS.ORG 15
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