Migraine Headaches

In Virginia Beach, VA

There are several types of migraine headaches including those brought about by menstruation. Typically, migraines are classified as either a common migraine or a classic migraine. A classic migraine is a migraine that is accompanied by an aura preceding the actual headache. Symptoms of an aura include vision disorders like seeing wavy lines, flashing lights, or object distortion. A common migraine is a headache that occurs without an aura, often hitting the sufferer instantly. Both types of migraines cause debilitating pain and may last for several days.

Migraine Symptoms

It can be difficult to distinguish a common migraine from other types of headaches like cluster headaches or tension headaches. Distinguishing factors include pain on only one side of your head, and increased sensitivity to light and noise. Other symptoms of migraines include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Sensitivity to smells
• Increased pain with physical activity
• Severe pain intensity

Migraines may be triggered by certain foods as well as lifestyle choices like smoking and drinking alcohol, but they may also be triggered by temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

TMD is a disorder in which the upper and lower joints of your jaw become misaligned. In addition to migraine headaches, symptoms of TMD include:

• Clicking or popping in the jaw
• Neck aches
• Tenderness in the jaw area
• Excess tooth wear

Neuromuscular dentist Dr. Michael P. Folck can help you determine if your headaches are caused by TMD. If you suffer from any of these symptoms in addition to your migraine headaches, Dr. Folck can help you find the treatment for migraines that will address the cause of your condition, correcting the problem and not just treating the symptoms.

If you live in or around Portsmouth, Norfolk, Hampton, Chesapeake, Newport, or Virginia Beach, Virginia and suffer from migraine headaches, please contact Dr. Michael P. Folck to schedule an initial evaluation today.