
Neurological & Other Conditions
This section addresses frequently asked questions about neurological symptoms and chronic conditions such as migraines, brain fog, and fatigue.
Migraine treatment usually falls into two categories: acute (to stop an attack once it starts) and preventive (to reduce frequency and severity over time). Acute treatments may include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
- Prescription medications (like triptans)
- Anti-nausea drugs
Preventive approaches might involve daily medications, lifestyle changes, supplements (like magnesium or riboflavin), hormonal balancing, or even Botox injections in chronic cases. Many patients benefit from a combination of both medication and holistic treatments
Most migraines are not a sign of a serious underlying issue, but it's wise to be cautious. If your migraines suddenly become more frequent, severe, or change in character—especially if they come with unusual neurological symptoms like slurred speech, weakness, or confusion—it’s important to see a healthcare provider. Sometimes these symptoms can mimic a stroke or other neurological condition, so it’s better to be safe and get evaluated.
Migraine triggers vary from person to person, but some common ones include:
- Hormonal changes (especially in women during menstruation or perimenopause)
- Certain foods like aged cheese, chocolate, and processed meats
- Caffeine (either too much or withdrawal from it)
- Stress or lack of sleep
- Bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells
- Weather changes or barometric pressure shifts
Keeping a migraine diary can help identify personal triggers so you can work on avoiding them.
A migraine isn’t just a bad headache—it’s a neurological condition that involves a variety of symptoms. While a typical tension headache might feel like a band of pressure around your head, migraines often bring throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side. They can also include nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and even visual disturbances called auras. Migraines can last from a few hours to several days and may significantly impact your ability to function.
Diagnosing chronic fatigue can be tricky because there’s no single test for it. Doctors typically use a process of elimination to rule out other conditions such as thyroid disease, anemia, sleep apnea, and depression. A thorough health history, physical exam, and sometimes blood tests are involved. For a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), symptoms must last for at least six months and include post-exertional malaise (worsening of symptoms after even minor physical or mental activity).
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