What is Migraine Headache?

Migraine headache is a type of headache characterized by recurrent and severe headaches. Migraines typically are unilateral and have a pulsating character. The pain is usually felt on one side of the head and typically lasts between 4 to 72 hours. During a migraine attack, individuals may experience other symptoms such as extreme sensitivity to light, sound, and odors, as well as nausea and vomiting.

What Are the Causes of Migraine Headaches?

The exact cause of migraine headaches is not fully understood. However, factors such as genetic predisposition, changes in brain chemistry, heightened sensitivity of nerves, and dilation of blood vessels are believed to play a role. There are various factors that can trigger a migraine attack, including stress, hormonal changes, irregular sleep patterns, certain foods (such as chocolate, caffeine, alcohol), poor diet, environmental factors (perfume scent, bright lights), and some medications.

What Are the Symptoms of Migraine Headaches?

Symptoms of migraine headaches may include:

• Unilateral headache:
  Migraines are typically characterized by severe pain on one side of the head, pulsating in nature, lasting 4-72 hours.
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and odors:
  During a migraine attack, individuals often develop extreme sensitivity to light, sound, and odors. They may be disturbed by bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells.
• Nausea and vomiting:
  During a migraine attack, individuals often experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.

Aura: Some migraine sufferers experience symptoms called aura before a migraine attack. Aura can include temporary neurological symptoms such as visual disturbances, numbness, or tingling.

How Is Migraine Headache Diagnosed?

The diagnostic process involves a detailed evaluation of the patient's symptoms and the severity of the headache. During a physical examination, typical signs of a headache are observed, and some tests may be conducted to rule out other possible causes. Additional tests such as brain imaging tests (MRI or CT scans) or blood tests may be ordered if necessary.

How Is Migraine Headache Treated?

Treatment for migraine headaches involves,

• Medications: Including treatments aimed at relieving pain attacks and reducing the frequency of attacks.
• Lifestyle changes
• Stress management
• Regular sleep
• Regular exercise
• Preventive measures such as healthy eating may also help reduce migraine attacks. Treatment is personalized based on the individual's symptoms and needs.
  
  

What Are the Interventional Treatments for Migraine?

Interventional treatments may include nerve blocks, neurotoxin injections, neural therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation among others.

• Nerve blocks:
  is a treatment method where local anesthetic drugs are injected into areas where nerves pass to reduce or prevent the severity of migraine attacks. These blocks are usually applied to specific nerves of the head such as the occipital nerve, supratrochlear nerve, or supraorbital nerve. Nerve blocks may alleviate pain by preventing excessive nerve stimulation.
• Neurotoxin injection:
  is another interventional treatment option used in migraine therapy. This toxin can help reduce migraine symptoms by relaxing muscles that trigger migraine attacks. Neurotoxin is recommended for patients with chronic migraine, experiencing frequent migraine attacks. This treatment typically involves a series of injections into muscles administered by a specialist.
• Neural therapy:
  is an alternative interventional treatment method in migraine therapy. In this method, local anesthetic drugs are injected into nerve endings or specific points. These injections may help regulate the nervous system, contributing to the reduction of migraine symptoms. Neural therapy is performed with precise injections by a specialist.
• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS):
  TMS is a procedure that alters electrical activity in the brain to reduce migraine pain. In this procedure, magnetic fields are applied to specific areas of the head to regulate nerve activity in the brain.
  
  

To learn more about migraine treatment and interventional procedures in İzmir, you can contact our surgery.