Migraines and headaches
A migraine is a common type of headache that may occur with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or sensitivity to light. In many people, a throbbing pain is felt only on one side of the head.
If you are one of the millions of Americans who suffer from migraines or other forms of headache, the neurologists at the Edward-Elmhurst Health Headache Clinic can help you manage them.
Our board certified team of neurologists is trained in treating headaches — specifically migraines — using certain medications and injections to help you get relief from acute migraines and chronic headaches.
What you need to know about migraines
Both genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role in making someone susceptible to migraines, a problem that afflicts more than 28 million Americans. The migraine attack begins in the brain stem where overactive nerve cells send signals to the blood vessels that cause them to constrict.
Migraine triggers
Some common migraine triggers include:
- Stress and anxiety
- Changes in the weather
- Caffeine (too much or too little)
- Chocolate or alcohol
- Lack of sleep or too much sleep
- Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle
- Skipping meals
- Foods containing nitrates (e.g., luncheon meats, hot dogs, etc.)
- Foods containing tyramine (e.g., aged cheeses, smoked fish, etc.)
- Foods containing monosodium glutamate (e.g., most diet or "light" soft drinks)
Migraine symptoms
Telltale signs of a migraine include throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head, and sensitivity to light, odors and noise. Some people have additional symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting. Some people also experience disruptions in taste, smell or touch.
Sometimes migraines come with or are preceded by disturbances to vision, called aura. This may include spots, dots, jagged lines, flashing lights or other senses, tingling in the arm or leg, or even speech difficulties. Migraine headaches can last from half an hour to several hours, sometimes even days.
Treatment for migraines
Migraines are a very common condition that can dramatically affect the quality of your life. The Edward-Elmhurst Headache Clinic provides state-of-the-art diagnosis and care for sufferers of all types of headaches — from the simplest to the most complex — including Botox injections for certain migraines.
To schedule an appointment, call the Edward-Elmhurst Headache Clinic:
Naperville: 630-527-7730
Plainfield: 815-731-9120
Warrenville: 630-836-9121
Crest Hill: 815-838-2888
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