Migraines are more than just headaches—they are a complex neurological condition that can cause intense pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. While medications and lifestyle changes help many patients, others require additional support. At Spine Medicine & Surgery of Long Island, Dr. Antigone Argyriou, a board-certified pain management specialist, offers interventional treatments like nerve blocks and trigger point injections to help patients find lasting relief.
Understanding Migraines and Their Impact
Migraines affect millions of people and can significantly disrupt daily life. Unlike typical headaches, migraines often come with additional symptoms, including:
- Severe, throbbing head pain, usually on one side
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells
- Visual disturbances (auras), including flashing lights or blind spots
For some, migraines last a few hours, while others experience debilitating attacks lasting days. Identifying and addressing triggers can play a crucial role in managing symptoms.
Common Migraine Triggers
Migraines can be caused by a variety of environmental, dietary, and lifestyle factors. Some of the most common triggers include:
- Stress – Emotional or physical stress can lead to tension headaches and migraines
- Hormonal Changes – Fluctuations in estrogen levels, especially in women, can trigger migraines
- Sleep Disruptions – Both too much and too little sleep can contribute to migraines
- Food and Drink – Processed foods, alcohol (especially red wine), and caffeine can be triggers
- Weather Changes – Sudden shifts in barometric pressure or extreme temperatures can provoke migraines
Identifying personal triggers and making necessary adjustments can help minimize migraine episodes.
Lifestyle Adjustments to Reduce Migraine Frequency
While medical intervention is sometimes necessary, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce migraine attacks:
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule and aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep
- Stay hydrated, as dehydration is a known migraine trigger
- Manage stress through techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing
- Monitor your diet and keep a food journal to track potential migraine triggers
- Engage in regular, moderate exercise, such as walking or swimming
For many patients, these adjustments, combined with targeted treatments, lead to long-term relief.
When to Seek Help from a Specialist?
If migraines are occurring frequently, lasting longer, or becoming more intense, it may be time to seek specialized care. Dr. Argyriou and the team at Spine Medicine & Surgery of Long Island provide expert migraine management, offering both conservative and interventional treatments tailored to each patient’s needs.
Interventional Pain Treatments for Migraines
For patients with chronic or severe migraines, Dr. Argyriou offers advanced pain management solutions at Spine Medicine & Surgery of Long Island, including:
- Occipital nerve blocks – Injections that target inflamed nerves to reduce migraine intensity and frequency
- Trigger point injections – Relief for muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, which can contribute to migraines
- Botox injections – FDA-approved for chronic migraines (15 or more headache days per month), Botox helps prevent attacks before they start
These minimally invasive treatments can provide long-term relief for patients struggling with frequent migraines.
Find Relief at Spine Medicine & Surgery of Long Island
If migraines are interfering with your quality of life, consider interventional pain management as a solution. Dr. Antigone Argyriou specializes in advanced treatments designed to provide lasting relief.
Don’t let migraines control your life—find relief with expert care at Spine Medicine & Surgery of Long Island.
