Migraines

Migraines are the third most common disease worldwide and affect 1 in 4 households in the United States. If you’re bothered by painful and debilitating migraines, see the experts at The Beloved Medicine Clinic, Pain and Spine in Dallas, Texas. Pain management specialists John Melek, MD, MSC, and Engy Melek, MD, RD, LD, offer pain management solutions to ease migraine discomfort. Schedule an appointment by calling the office or requesting an evaluation online today.

What are migraines?

Migraines are more than headaches because they can become disabling when left untreated. Migraines can reduce your quality of life by making it difficult to work, go to school, or do everyday tasks. 

Fortunately, The Beloved Medicine Clinic, Pain and Spine offers treatments for migraine discomfort.

What are the symptoms of migraines?

Migraine symptoms can include:

• Head throbbing
• Pulsing head pain
• Pain on one side of your head
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes
• Trouble sleeping
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Fatigue
• Vision changes
• Muscle weakness
• Ringing in your ears
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Touch sensitivity 
• Difficulty speaking
• Dizziness
• Pounding headache
• Dull head pain

Symptoms may vary from person to person. Migraine pain might last for several hours and up to several days when untreated. Your symptoms could increase in severity because of bright lights, physical activity, strong odors, or loud sounds. 

The frequency of migraines may be once per year, once weekly, or somewhere in between. Many people with migraines experience them 2-4 times monthly on average. 

What are the risk factors for migraines?

The cause of migraines isn’t always clear, but risk factors may include:

• Genetics
• Stress, depression, and/or anxiety
• Hormonal changes
• Sleep changes
• Changes in weather conditions
• Some medications
• Excessive physical activity
• Caffeine
• Tobacco
• Alcohol
• Foods additives
• Highly processed foods
• Skipping meals
• Exposure to strong odors, loud sounds, and/or bright lights
• Being female
• Family history of migraines
• Sleep disorders
• Epilepsy 

About 12% of people in the United States struggle with migraines.

How are migraines diagnosed?

Your pain management specialist discusses your medical history, lifestyle, and medications to learn your migraine risk factors. 

They also review your symptoms and complete physical and neurological exams. You might undergo blood testing, an imaging procedure, or brain function tests to learn how to best treat your condition. 

How are migraines treated?

Your customized migraine treatment plan may consist of:

• Avoiding migraine triggers
• Lifestyle changes
• Dietary supplements
• Medication management
• Botox® or other injections
• Nerve stimulation
• Relaxation techniques 
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Biofeedback
• Sleep disorder treatment

Medications can reduce the severity of your migraines or help prevent them. The Beloved Medicine Clinic, Pain and Spine specialists follow up to ensure an effective outcome.

Schedule a migraine evaluation at The Beloved Medicine Clinic, Pain and Spine by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.