Headaches come in all shapes and sizes, but they share one thing in common. They can be such a nuisance! Headaches can appear when you least expect them, too, and can cause serious pain or other neurological issues.

While most headaches are minor issues that will go away with lifestyle changes or even just some water, migraines are a different beast.

Our AFC Urgent Care Boulder team explains more about what migraines are and how to help yourself find relief.

What Are Migraines?

Migraines are a neurological condition that cause multiple different symptoms, one of which is the classic searing and unrelenting pain. However, there are some people out there that experience migraines without ever having head pain! They simply experience the other neurological symptoms over the course of their attack.

Migraines are considered a primary headache, since they are a clinical diagnosis. Secondary headaches are a symptom of an underlying condition, such as a blood clot or a stroke. They can last anywhere from a few hours to multiple days, and they can seriously disrupt your life during this time.

Signs Your Head Pain May Be a Migraine

• Severe headache
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or blurred vision

Can You Treat Migraines?

The good news is that there are multiple different medication options to help you manage your condition. The bad news is that they really should be taken right at symptom onset to help curb your attack most effectively. Get in the habit of carrying your medication with you so you are always ready in case one strikes.

If you have never had one previously or are away from your medicine, find a quiet and dark space that you can rest, relax and hopefully sleep in. Screens can make your symptoms worse, so leave the TV off and keep your phone out of sight. Apply a cold compress to your next or head to help numb the pain or get in a warm bath to help relax tight muscles. Once you are able to, take your medication. If none of this helps, your pain is getting worse, or if you start to notice any of these warning signs below, seek medical attention right away.

Serious Headache Warning Signs

• Your headache appears suddenly, like a thunderclap.
• You develop a stiff neck and a fever alongside your headache.
• You feel a new level of pain that you haven’t before.
• You experience vision changes or feelings of confusion.

Migraines can be debilitating. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Boulder if you are experiencing head pain.