You know the feeling all too well— throbbing head pain, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, visual disturbances... it seems to never end. Migraine attacks, a form of moderate to severe headaches with crippling side effects that worsen with movement, are far too common, but there is hope.

Migraines are present in approximately 16% of adults in the United States, and yet migraine attacks are rarely talked about. Those who have never had a migraine often misunderstand the severity, and many who suffer from migraines are under the impression that migraines are not treatable. Despite these misconceptions, migraines can cause severe pain and other side effects, but there are treatments that can reduce, mitigate, and diminish the impacts.

Luckily, there are a wide range of options for treatment. In the past decade alone, there have been more than 10 new medications approved by the FDA for acute and preventative treatment of migraines. These new medications have provided additional options for patients who have not found success with traditional medications.

Beyond medications, lifestyle adjustments can also reduce migraine and headache frequency. Getting adequate hours of uninterrupted sleep, managing stress, eating heart-healthy foods, staying hydrated, and exercising daily can reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

Migraines are serious, but when does a headache call for a trip to the doctor’s office? Headaches that are made worse by coughing, sneezing, or straining; occur with nighttime awakening; or are progressively worsening may be a cause for concern. A provider who specializes in headaches can best assess these symptoms to determine if a potentially dangerous cause is present.

“We understand that migraines can be miserable hindrances to daily activities, and for many, they are far from rare occurrences,” explained Michael Sowell, M.D., professor of Neurology and director of the University of Louisville Comprehensive Headache Program. “At the University of Louisville School of Medicine, a plethora of resources are available for those suffering from migraines, including neuroimaging techniques and coordination of care with other health care providers, when necessary.”

Although there is a higher prevalence in women as opposed to men (an approximate 3:1 ratio), migraines can affect anyone. Underlying medical conditions, tobacco use, high levels of stress, and family genetics may put some individuals at a higher risk of developing migraines.

Increasing awareness of the condition can lead to improved recognition and treatment, thus resulting in increased work productivity, decreased disability, and improved quality of life for the millions of individuals who experience migraines.

Whether you experience migraines occasionally or frequently, you deserve to feel better. Join us at the University of Louisville School of Medicine as we continue to advance research, refine treatment, and raise awareness for those living with migraine. Learn more about the Comprehensive Headache Program through the Department of Neurology here at the University of Louisville.