Migraine Specialist

What are some of the symptoms of migraines?

You may experience some or all of these symptoms during a migraine attack. In some cases, migraine symptoms last for only a few hours. Other times, though, migraines can last up to 3 days. Some of the most common migraine symptoms include:

• Pounding or throbbing on one side of your head
• Worsening of pain with movement or physical activity
• Distorted or blurred vision, sometimes including flashing lights
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Nausea or vomiting

Write down your migraine symptoms in a journal when you can. By keeping tabs on which symptoms you have before, during, and after a migraine, you might be able to predict the onset of a migraine attack and possibly get chiropractic treatment ahead of time.

Why do I get migraines?

Many factors contribute to migraines -- some of which, you may have control over. After a thorough physical examination and interview, Dr. Ponomarenko can help you determine the cause of your migraine, which may include one or several of these issues:   

• Anxiety or stress
• Poor diet
• Genetics
• Lack of sleep
• Excessive light exposure
• Spinal misalignment
• Gender, women are 3 times as likely to suffer from migraines

Does chiropractic care relieve migraines?

Yes. Studies suggest that migraine sufferers can benefit from chiropractic care. Receiving regular spinal manipulation adjustments, based on your chiropractor’s recommended frequency and duration, can help minimize migraine frequency.

Can my diet affect migraine attacks?

Yes. Missing meals can trigger severe migraine symptoms, as can eating the wrong foods. Alcohol, chocolate, smoked or cured meats, aged cheese, certain food preservatives, and artificial sweeteners, are just some of the foods and ingredients that can bring on migraine attacks. Dr. Ponomarenko’s overall chiropractic wellness plan includes nutrition tips you can incorporate to reduce migraine severity and frequency. He’ll recommend foods you should be eating, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and low-sodium options, which can further minimize your risk of migraine suffering.