Migraine

How is a migraine different from a headache?

Unlike a regular headache that usually responds to over-the-counter pain relievers, migraine symptoms can be debilitating. They often cause severe throbbing or pulsing pain on one side of your head along with nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to lights and noises. A migraine attack can last for several hours to a few days if left untreated.

Many adults experience warning symptoms before the onset of a migraine, which includes flashes of light, blind spots, or tingling on the side of your head or face. You may even have difficulty speaking, blurred vision, or a stiff neck before you begin feeling a severe headache.

When should I see a doctor for migraines?

An occasional migraine is common, especially among women, as 70% of migraine sufferers are female. However, if you experience frequent signs and symptoms of migraines, and you miss work several times each month as a result, it may be time to seek medical attention. Dr. Boatwright and the pain management experts at Palmetto Spine and Pain Care Consultants are specialists in diagnosing and treating chronic migraine pain.

How are migraines treated?

Dr. Boatwright offers a variety of the latest treatment options for migraine sufferers, including:

• Botox® injections
  
• Cervical injections
  
• Occipital nerve blocks
  
• Peripheral nerve stimulation
  

How does Botox help a migraine?

The first step in determining if Botox injections are the best treatment option for your migraines is to undergo a clinical evaluation and assessment. Botox is an FDA-approved preventive treatment for chronic migraine pain and symptoms. Botox injections can potentially prevent an average of eight to nine headache days each month and are recommended for those who suffer from frequent migraines.

You may be a good candidate for Botox injections if:

• You suffer from 15 or more headache days per month
  
• Your migraine pain lasts four or more hours each day
  
• You are 18 or older
  

Dr. Boatwright injects the Botox medication every 12 weeks so you can get the full benefit of pain relief. He uses a tiny needle that feels like a pinprick, and the in-office procedure takes only about 15 minutes. The Botox injections go into your muscles just beneath the skin with each treatment requiring 31 injections in seven different areas of your head and neck.

To learn more about all the migraine pain relief options offered at Palmetto Spine and Pain Care Consultants, call or schedule an appointment online.