Migraines are a complex neurological disorder affecting millions in the United States. Fortunately, treatment options and outcomes continue to improve as we better understand these debilitating headaches.
Board-certified neurologist Dr. Andrew Lerman, founder and director of Gables Neurology in Miami, Florida, specializes in adult neurological disorders, including treating and preventing migraine headaches.
As someone who has suffered from migraines since adolescence, Dr. Lerman has a unique perspective on how migraines can impact your daily routine. Here are some ways Dr. Lerman and his team can help you get a handle on your migraines.
Migraine frequency, symptoms, and triggers vary significantly from one individual to the next. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all treatment plan for migraines, Dr. Lerman develops personalized strategies that fit your needs.
Dr. Lerman also takes a team approach to neurological care and considers you an essential component of that team. Your input regarding your symptoms, concerns, observations, or questions is crucial.
For instance, some people have clear warning signals days before their migraine pain begins. Known as a prodrome, these signs may include mood changes, food cravings, constipation, and other subtle symptoms.
Recognizing these patterns and sharing the findings with your Gables Neurology team provides valuable insight into developing a comprehensive migraine treatment and prevention plan.
This is one reason to keep a headache diary with details about your migraines' timing and other characteristics.
Keeping a headache diary (available as an app or download) offers several benefits, including:
Identifying and avoiding migraine triggers whenever possible is a critical component of migraine prevention.
Recording details such as food intake, sleep patterns, stress levels, and environmental factors that coincide with your headaches can identify potential triggers for migraines.
A headache diary allows you to track your migraine frequency, duration, severity, and associated symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and aura.
This information helps Dr. Lerman better understand the nature of your migraines and tailor your treatment plans accordingly.
You can use a headache diary to track the effectiveness of migraine medications, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs. This information helps Dr. Lerman identify the most effective treatments for managing your migraines.
You may notice patterns emerging as you track your migraine occurrences, such as certain times of the day or during hectic workdays. This clarifies triggers or warning signs and aids in identifying potential preventative strategies.
Migraines are a complex neurological disorder that can occur a few times a year or more than eight times a month. Medical care provided by a physician who is trained in migraine care and prevention is crucial for several reasons:
Migraines can sometimes be mistaken for other types of headaches or health conditions. Specialty care helps ensure you receive an accurate diagnosis, which is essential for developing an effective treatment plan.
Migraines can cause severe pain, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Dr. Lerman’s treatment strategies are designed to fit your needs, including medications to help manage pain and alleviate other symptoms during a migraine attack. For instance, you may benefit from oral medication or require an occipital nerve block for severe pain.
Dr. Lerman stays current on the safest and most effective advances in migraine treatment. This includes prescription medications and newer therapies, such as Botox® injections to reduce your migraine frequency and severity.
Dr. Lerman is committed to providing effective education and migraine care for the long term and provides ongoing support that may include changes in medication and other adjustments over time.
Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Lerman at Gables Neurology today. Call our office or request an appointment online.
