How Are Migraines Diagnosed?

If you suffer from frequent headaches or migraines in the St. Louis area, you know how debilitating the pain can be. But you don't have to live with the pain - there are effective treatment options available, and it all starts with understanding how migraines are diagnosed.

At Vidan Family Chiropractic, our goal is to identify the root cause of your headaches and target treatment to provide lasting relief.

Speak With Your Doctor

During your appointment, the doctor will conduct a thorough medical history review and physical examination. They will ask you questions about your symptoms, including the frequency, intensity, and duration of your headaches. This information helps them understand the nature of your migraines and rule out other potential causes.

In some cases, the doctor may request additional tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests can include blood tests, imaging scans (such as MRI or CT scans), or a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). These tests help rule out other underlying conditions that may be causing your symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Headaches and Migraines

Headache and migraine symptoms can vary greatly, but may include:

• Throbbing or pulsating head pain
• Pain concentrated on one side of the head 
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells
• Blurred vision or seeing auras
• Pain originating in the neck or shoulders

One of the most important aspects of migraine diagnosis is tracking your symptoms. Keeping a headache diary can provide valuable information to your doctor. Note down the date, time, duration, and severity of your headaches, as well as any triggers or accompanying symptoms. This diary can help identify patterns and triggers, making it easier to manage and treat your migraines effectively.

Another crucial step in the diagnostic process is ruling out other types of headaches. There are various headache disorders that can mimic migraines, such as tension headaches or cluster headaches. By differentiating between these different types of headaches, your doctor can tailor the treatment plan specifically to your needs.

What Causes Headaches and Migraines?

Headaches and migraines can have a variety of different causes, including:

• Muscle tension and spasms, especially in the neck and shoulders
• Misalignments in the spine putting pressure on nerves 
• Changes in brain chemistry and blood vessel function
• Food sensitivities and allergies
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Stress and poor posture 

Once a diagnosis of migraines is confirmed, your doctor will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include lifestyle modifications, stress management techniques, medication, or alternative therapies. The goal is to reduce the frequency and severity of your migraines and improve your quality of life.

The Chiropractic Approach to Headache and Migraine Relief

Chiropractic care offers a drug-free approach to finding lasting relief from headaches and migraines. Specific techniques we may use include:

• Gentle upper cervical adjustments to improve alignment and decrease nerve irritation
• Soft tissue massage and trigger point therapy to release muscle tension
• Postural corrections and exercises to reduce strain on the neck and spine 
• Nutritional counseling to identify and avoid headache triggers
• Stress management techniques and lifestyle coaching 

Rather than just temporarily dulling the pain, chiropractic care aims to address the root cause so you can live a headache-free life.

Experience Lasting Relief 

If you're tired of suffering from frequent headaches and migraines, we encourage you to explore chiropractic care. Contact Vidan Family Chiropractic today at (314) 210-6556 to schedule an appointment. Let us help you finally find lasting migraine pain relief in St. Louis.