Migraines are more severe than a typical headache. Headaches are often caused by an illness, stress, and drinking alcohol. Migraines can occur at any time; they are often more painful than a typical headache and cause additional symptoms besides a severe headache. Migraines can be debilitating but our team at PA Chiropractic and Rehab Center LLC in Waynesburg can help. Migraine headaches often progress through four stages and with each stage, different symptoms may occur.
Phase One: Prodrome
The first phase of a migraine, known as the prodrome phase, often occurs a day or two before the migraine begins. This phase causes symptoms that will let you know that a migraine is coming.
- Mood changes (depression or euphoria)
- Food cravings
- Constipation
- Stiff neck
- Fluid retention
- Increased urination
- Frequent yawning
Phase Two: Aura
Some people experience auras either before or during a migraine. They are caused by the nervous system and often start gradually. Over just a few minutes, the aura will build and can last for up to an hour. The most common types include:
- Seeing flashes of light, bright spots, or various shapes
- Vision loss
- Weakness or numbness in your face or on one side of your body
- Pins and needles in your arms or legs
- Trouble speaking
Not everyone who suffers from migraines will experience an aura; however, those who do can get a warning before the actual migraine occurs.
Phase Three: Attack
The attack phase of the migraine is the worst phase. The migraine is likely to last for 4 to 72 hours. Some people suffer for just a few hours, while others suffer for days. Some people experience migraines occasionally, while others suffer from migraines several times per month. The severity and frequency vary from person to person. The possible symptoms of migraines include:
- Severe pain on one side or both sides of your head
- Throbbing or pulsing pain
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Sensitivity to smell and touch
- Nausea and vomiting
These symptoms are often debilitating, and many people can only find relief when lying in a dark, quiet room.
Phase Four: Post-Drome
This is the final phase of a migraine, and it occurs when the attack is over. People feel differently during this phase. Many report feeling confused and drained afterward. Some report feeling elated because the pain has finally subsided. It isn't uncommon for sudden head movements to cause short spurts of pain while in the post-drome phase.
Migraine Treatment
There are a couple of treatments for migraine headaches. A doctor can prescribe prescription medication to relieve the pain and reduce the frequency of your migraines. Furthermore, some studies have shown that Botox can help with the severity and frequency of your migraines.
One of the most effective treatment options for migraines is chiropractic care. Migraines occur when the cranial blood vessels expand. Our chiropractor can perform spinal manipulations to correct any misalignments or irregularities that can irritate the nerves that control the blood flow to your head. Chiropractic care is effective in reducing the frequency and severity of your migraines.
Get Quality Migraine Treatment in Waynesburg, PA
If you suffer from frequent migraines, schedule an appointment at PA Chiropractic and Rehab Center LLC. Dr. Cozart will create a migraine treatment plan to improve your quality of life. Call our team today at (724) 852-4222 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.
