Migraines in Plainview, NY

More than 12% of the population suffers from migraines, and for many of them, the pain and symptoms are debilitating. But relief is available. At Primary Medical Associates of Long Island, PLLC in Plainview, New York, Natalia Levinskaya, D.O. and Vanessa Ali-Pennock, D.O. treat migraine pain and symptoms with medication and behavioral changes to help you avoid migraine triggers. Don’t lose another day to a migraine headache. Call or click to schedule an appointment today.

Anyone who’s ever suffered a migraine will tell you it’s much more than just a headache Migraines cause recurrent throbbing or pulsating head pain lasting anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Migraine pain typically involves one side of the head, but sometimes travels to the other.

Migraines usually involve other symptoms, including:

• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Neck pain
• Numbness or tingling in certain body parts
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Visual disturbance or aura
• Vomiting

Migraine symptoms and severity vary from person to person. Some migraine symptoms are easily relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers. Others are disabling and require more aggressive treatment.

Migraine causes aren’t completely understood. Experts believe they have something to do with changes in the brainstem and the trigeminal nerve, which supplies touch, pain, and temperature sensations to the face. Changes in brain chemicals like serotonin may also play a role in migraines.

Researchers know more about genetic and environmental factors that commonly trigger migraines. Avoiding or addressing known triggers is often the best way to prevent migraines.

Common migraine triggers include:

• Certain food, drinks, and food additives
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Environmental changes like drops in barometric pressure
• Hormonal changes in women
• Sensory stimuli like bright light or strong smells
• Some medications
• Stress

Your doctor uses your overall health assessment, family history, and physical exam to diagnose migraines. With blood tests, MRI, or CT scans, she’s able to rule out other conditions.

Migraine treatment generally involves:

• Preventive medications: If you have four or more migraines lasting around 12 hours or more, you may be a good candidate for preventive therapy. Preventive medications taken regularly can reduce the severity and frequency of attacks.
• Pain-relieving medications: Pain-relieving medications taken at the first sign of symptoms can minimize symptoms and downtime. A wide variety of over-the-counter and prescription pain relievers work in different ways to relieve migraine pain and discomfort.
• Lifestyle changes: Trigger avoidance, natural relaxation techniques, a healthy diet, and good sleep habits all help to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
• Botox injections: For some men and women, Botox injections in the muscles of the neck and head are highly effective for treating migraines.

Migraines don’t have to hold you back from life. Learning more about your migraine patterns and triggers is the key to relief. Call or click to schedule an appointment today.

When should I seek treatment for my migraines?

You should seek treatment for your migraines when they start to regularly interfere with your day-to-day life or become more frequent and intense. If migraines are causing you to miss work, school, or important activities, or if over-the-counter medications no longer provide relief, it's time to consult a healthcare professional for a tailored treatment plan.

Can certain foods trigger migraines?

Yes, certain foods and additives are known to trigger migraines in some individuals. Common culprits include aged cheeses, red wine, processed meats, chocolate, and foods containing MSG or artificial sweeteners. Keeping a food diary can help identify personal triggers and avoid them to reduce migraine occurrences.

Can stress management techniques help with migraines?

Stress is a well-known trigger for migraines, and managing stress can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and regular physical activity can be effective in managing stress and, consequently, in reducing the occurrence of migraines.