Migraines

Neurology Diagnostics, Inc.

Adult Neurology & Electrodiagnostic Medicine located in South Dayton, Dayton, OH

Migraines affect more than 10% of the world’s population, causing severe pain and distress during regular attacks. If migraine attacks are disrupting your life, Joel Vandersluis, MD, of Neurology Diagnostics, Inc. can help. At their offices in North and South Dayton, Ohio, Dr. Vandersluis and his team provide the most advanced forms of treatment for migraines, including the newest, most effective medications. Recent advancements in migraine treatment include calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonists, which target specific pathways involved in migraine. Additionally, patients have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials for new migraine therapies, offering hope for better symptom relief and prevention. Call Neurology Diagnostics, Inc. today to find out more or book an appointment using the online form.

937-224-8200

Migraines Q & A

What are migraines?

Migraines are a type of severe headache that come with a range of other unpleasant symptoms. The pain is typically intense, throbbing, or pulsing, and usually affects one side of the head. A migraine attack can last from 4 to 72 hours if untreated.

In addition to the pain, migraines often cause nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound. About a third of people who suffer from migraines experience a warning sign known as an aura. Auras are visual disturbances that can include seeing zigzag lines, flashing lights, or temporary vision loss.

What causes migraines?

Researchers are still investigating the exact causes of migraines, but recent findings suggest a genetic component related to abnormalities in brain function. Migraines are often triggered by various factors, including:

Stress
Anxiety
Hormonal changes
Bright or flashing lights
Lack of food
Lack of sleep
Certain types of food

Migraines are about three times more common in women than men. In some women, migraine attacks may be triggered by hormonal changes during their menstrual cycle.

How are migraines treated?

While there is no cure for migraines, Neurology Diagnostics, Inc. offers a range of treatments to help prevent migraine attacks and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Newer Medications:

CGRP Blockers: These drugs block the activity of calcitonin gene-related peptide, a molecule involved in migraine attacks. They can be used both to prevent migraines and to treat them when they first come on.
Lasmiditan: A serotonin receptor agonist used for acute migraine treatment.
Neuromodulation Devices: These devices deliver electrical currents to modulate nerve activity and can be used for both acute treatment and prevention.

Other Medications:

Anti-seizure medicines
Antidepressants
Blood pressure medications
Botulinum toxin A
Sumatriptan
Ergotamine drugs
Ibuprofen
Aspirin
Hormone therapy

Lifestyle and Preventive Measures:

Stress management
Regular exercise
Biofeedback
Relaxation techniques
Regular meals
Drinking plenty of water
Consistent sleep patterns
Weight loss

Identifying and avoiding migraine triggers can also help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. Keeping a record of your activities, diet, and other factors can be beneficial.

At Neurology Diagnostics, Inc., you can participate in clinical trials to test new treatments for migraines. For example, you might join a research program that involves using a nasal spray following a migraine attack and recording its effectiveness.

To find out more, call Neurology Diagnostics, Inc. today or book an appointment online.