Migraine Treatment in Greater Boston
In the United States, more than 38 million people suffer from migraines, and headaches are among the most common medical complaints. At Boston Advanced Medicine, we will work with you to take control of your chronic headaches and migraines.
At Boston Advanced Medicine we offer a comprehensive treatment program that treats all types of head pain including migraines. Contact our neurology clinic in Greater Boston today by calling 781-647-7246.
What are headaches and migraines? What's the difference?
If you are experiencing a headache, the pain is dull and happens on both sides of the head. You may feel tightness or pressure in your head but you may still be able to perform daily tasks. Migraines, on the other hand, occur on only one side or are worse on one side. They are characterized by a severe throbbing or pulsing pain, causing you to stop or slow down activities.
Often, there is an overlap and these conditions often get confused. We can help you understand what is happening when you feel the onset of symptoms.
Headaches
- Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, inflicting pain in 3 of 4 adults.
- An occasional tension headache is the result of muscle contractions in your neck and head.
- Frequency
- Most adults have a tension headache a couple of times a month.
- If you experience chronic headaches, you likely suffer from headache pain for more than 15 days each month.
Migraines
- Migraines are the result of changes in your brain’s blood flow and nerve cell activity.
- Migraines are more common in women than men and genetics are also a factor.
- Frequency
- If you suffer from migraine pain more than once or twice a month please reach out.
Symptoms of Headaches and Migraines
As you suffer from headache or migraine pain, it may be difficult for you to describe the sensation or symptoms. Here is an overview of the common symptoms of each condition.
Headache Symptoms May Include:
- Moderate pain that occurs on both sides of the head
- Tight pressure in the head
- A feeling like your head is being squeezed
- Soreness in the temples
- Pain in the neck or shoulders
- Tightness in the neck or shoulders
Migraine Symptoms May Include:
- Intense or severe pain that is worse on one side or occurs only on one side
- Pressure and pain behind the eyes
- Pain in the temples
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain that worsens with physical activity
- Sensitivity to light, sounds, or smells
- Dizziness
Migraines typically occur after a prodrome, which means a sign of fatigue, depression, food craving, stiffness, or irritability. Migraines can also occur with migraine auras which are visual disturbances or issues with speech, numbness, or facial weakness.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, give us a call. We can help you get the relief you need.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
When you come to see us at our Headache Center, we will go through your medical history and perform a physical evaluation. We may ask you to keep a headache diary and discuss your symptoms. If needed, we will perform a CT scan or MRI imaging to get a better look at what is going on in the vessels in your head and neck area.
After we figure out the issue with your headaches or migraines, we will move forward with a treatment plan. You are the most important decision-maker in this plan. We know that you know your body best, and we will listen to you as we plan a tailored treatment just for you.
Our Treatments Include:
Preventative Measures to Help You Avoid Triggers and Symptoms
- Lifestyle modifications
- Relaxation techniques
- Nutritional changes
Pain-Relieving Medications
Injections to Help Muscles and Nerves Relax
- Botox® injections
- Nerve block injections
Counseling Therapy
Avoiding Triggers for Headaches and Migraines
Triggers for Headache Pain May Include:
- Poor posture
- Emotional stress
- Eye strain
- Fatigue
- Alcohol
- Certain foods
- Smoking
- Caffeine
- A sinus infection or cold
- Cold temperatures
Triggers for Migraines May Include:
- Changes in weather or humidity
- Emotional stress
- Fatigue
- Strong smells
- Loud noises
- Skipping meals
- Drinking red wine
- Nitrates in cured meats and fish
- Caffeine
- Chocolate
- Hormone fluctuations
Schedule a Migraine Treatment Appointment in Boston, MA
Don’t let chronic migraines rule your life. Connect with The Greater Boston Headache Center at Boston Advanced Medicine for specialized, comprehensive treatment. Call our neurology clinic in Greater Boston today at 781-647-7246.
