If you’ve ever had a migraine, you know it’s far more than just a bad headache. For many people, migraines are recurring, sometimes debilitating episodes that can impact work, relationships, and daily life.
What is a Migraine?

A migraine is an intense, often throbbing headache that may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, or smells. It typically affects one side of the head but can involve both. An attack can last anywhere from four hours to three days, and some people experience migraines several times a month.

There are two main types of migraines: with aura and without aura. An aura is a warning sign that can include visual disturbances (such as flashing lights or blind spots), speech or language difficulties, or tingling and numbness in the face or limbs. These symptoms usually occur shortly before the headache begins and can be alarming — especially the first time.

Unlike sinus or tension headaches, migraines often interrupt your ability to function. Many people report missing work, canceling plans, and feeling anxious about when the next one will strike.

Common Triggers

Migraines are personal and what triggers an episode in one person may not affect another. However, some of the most common triggers include:
– Hormonal changes — especially in women during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause
– Changes in sleep patterns — getting too much or too little rest
– Stress or anxiety — which can cause physical tension and hormonal shifts
– Environmental factors — like bright lights, loud sounds, or strong smells
– Food and drink — especially aged cheeses, chocolate, alcohol, and foods with additives like MSG
– Weather changes — including shifts in barometric pressure or extreme temperatures

Keeping a migraine diary can help track frequency, triggers, symptoms, and patterns over time. This information can be invaluable when working with your provider to manage your condition.

Getting Relief

The good news is that more treatment options are available today than ever before. For occasional migraines, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help. But if your migraines are frequent or severe, prescription treatments might be necessary.

Newer therapies are giving hope to those who haven’t found relief in the past. These include injectable and oral medications that specifically target and block the signals thought to trigger migraines. These treatments are designed to prevent attacks before they start. Another option for people with chronic migraines is Botox injections, which can reduce the severity and number of headache days each month.

If migraines are interfering with your quality of life — or occurring more than a few times a month — don’t hesitate to talk to your primary care provider or ask for a referral to a neurologist. You don’t have to suffer in silence.

by Suhag R. Patel, PA-C
UPMC Neurological Institute

Suhag Patel, PA-C, sees patients at UPMC Neurological Institute, 740 High St., 3rd Floor, Williamsport, UPMC Outpatient Center, 1 Outlet Ln., Lock Haven, and UPMC Outpatient Center, 2330 Saint Mary St. West, Suite 1, Lewisburg. To make an appointment with Suhag at one of these locations, call 570-321-2820. For more information about UPMC Neurological Institute services in northcentral Pa., visit UPMC.com/NeuroNCPA.