My Aching Head

What is a migraine headache and what makes it different from a “regular” headache?

For women migraine headaches are often associated with the menstrual cycle.  If you tend to get a headache towards the end of your cycle, or during it, it could be migraine.

Headaches that are defined as migraine are usually more severe, and typically occur on one side of the head, in front of face, or may even start in the neck and upper shoulders.  People describe the pain as stabbing, throbbing, and is sometimes relieved with over the counter pain medicine like ibuprofen (Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol).  Sometimes there is a visual disturbance called an “aura”, and some people experience numbness, tingling, or even mental slowness. Nausea, vomiting and light sensitivity can also occur.

If migraine headaches are coming frequently enough so that they interfere with work and daily life, or are severe, then you may benefit from seeing a specialist, often a neurologist.  There are excellent medications that can stop migraines when you have them, and that you take daily if your migraines are more frequent.  These medications are effective at suppressing the pain symptoms, but do not address the underlying causes.

Root cause medicine

But what if you could get to the root causes of the migraine too?  Or even start to hone in on what your triggers are?   Allergies, stress, food sensitivities, hormonal imbalances like perimenopause (the phase women go through before menopause, then end of the menstrual cycle), depression, and nutritional imbalances can all contribute to frequency and intensity of migraine headache. *

Many herbs and vitamins have been shown to be helpful, as well as getting enough good fats (Omega-3) in the diet. 

What treatment for me?

There is a lot of information on the internet, so how are you to know which treatment would work best for you?  I am a physician assistant with experience in integrative medicine, utilizing the best of both traditional medicine and vitamins, herbs, and treatments that a typical medical provider would not be aware of.  I spend at least an hour with you on your first visit.  That way we have the time to talk about your concerns and explore your history.  Getting at the root cause can change your perspective and your life.

Get in touch!  See the Medical Services page on my website at www.tammyjettparmer.com. 

*Of course, if you are having severe headaches that are unusual for you, something new like this needs to be investigated right away, preferably in an emergency department of a hospital.