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Migraines

How Many People Suffer From Migraines?

Migraines affect more than 12% of the U.S. population and can be debilitating for many. At Primary Medical Associates of Long Island, PLLC, located in Plainview, New York, Dr. Natalia Levinskaya offers treatments to alleviate migraine pain and symptoms through medication and lifestyle changes to help avoid migraine triggers. Don't lose another day to a migraine—schedule an appointment today.

What is a Migraine?

Migraines are more than just headaches. They cause recurrent, throbbing, or pulsating head pain, typically on one side of the head, lasting from a few hours to a few days. Common symptoms include:

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  • Dizziness

  • Fatigue

  • Nausea

  • Neck pain

  • Numbness or tingling

  • Sensitivity to light and sound

  • Visual disturbances (aura)

  • Vomiting

 

Symptoms and severity vary, and while some migraines can be managed with over-the-counter medications, others may require more aggressive treatments

What Causes Migraines?

The exact cause of migraines is not completely understood, but they are believed to involve changes in the brainstem and interactions with the trigeminal nerve, a major pain pathway. Fluctuations in brain chemicals like serotonin also play a role. Common migraine triggers include:

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  • Certain foods and drinks

  • Changes in sleep patterns

  • Environmental changes (e.g., barometric pressure)

  • Hormonal changes in women

  • Sensory stimuli (e.g., bright lights, strong smells)

  • Certain medications

  • Stress

How Are Migraines Treated?

Diagnosis involves a physical and neurological exam and may include blood tests or imaging scans to rule out other conditions. Treatment options include:

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  • Preventive Medications: Taken regularly to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines, especially for those experiencing frequent or severe attacks.

  • Pain-Relieving Medications: Taken at the onset of symptoms to minimize pain and other symptoms. These include over-the-counter pain relievers, triptans, and anti-nausea medications.

  • Lifestyle Changes: Identifying and avoiding triggers, maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and good sleep hygiene.

  • BOTOX® Injections: For some patients, Botox injections in the head and neck muscles can be effective in reducing migraine frequency​

Managing Your Migraines

Understanding your migraine patterns and triggers is key to effective management. If you experience migraines, schedule a consultation at Primary Medical Associates of Long Island, PLLC, to develop a personalized treatment plan and find relief from your symptoms. Our dedicated team is here to help you manage migraines and improve your quality of life.

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