Migraines and Headaches

When you have a migraine or headache, it can interfere with your physical and cognitive function. Highly trained in neurological conditions, physician assistant Jamie Barnes PA-C, LCPC, helps treat migraines and headaches at Open Door Wellness Center in Great Falls, Montana. As a member of the International Headache Society and the American Headache Society, Jamie understands the importance of finding a treatment that works for you. Call the center today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What are migraines and headaches?

Migraines and headaches cause head pain that can vary in intensity, frequency, and length. While headaches and migraines share many of the same traits, they are separate conditions that require targeted treatments.

Headaches

Headaches refer to a wide range of conditions that can cause throbbing, shooting, or dull pain in your head or face. Many headaches are one-sided, while others radiate through your neck and upper body. Determining the type of headache you have is the first step in finding the best treatment for you.

Migraines

A migraine is a neurological disease that causes intense, prolonged headaches. Migraines can last for up to 72 hours and often begin with symptoms such as light sensitivity and nausea. Many individuals experience chronic migraines. Understanding your condition can help you prepare for future migraine attacks and reduce their impact on your quality of life.

Are there different types of headaches?

Many types of headaches can cause pain and tension in your head. The most common are:

Tension headache

Stress and muscle tension in your head, jaw, or neck can lead to a tension headache. While most tension headaches resolve on their own, some are chronic.

Cluster headache

Cluster headaches cause severe pain around your eyes or the side of your head. They’re usually one-sided and intense. A cluster headache can wake you up in the middle of the night without warning. 

Ice pick headache

Ice pick headaches cause sharp, stabbing pains. Less common than tension and cluster headaches, an ice pick headache typically lasts for only a few seconds.

How are migraines different from headaches?

While similar to headaches, migraines tend to be more debilitating. Migraines are intense enough to interfere with your quality of life. They cause whole-body symptoms, such as:

• Stiff neck
• Head pain
• Sensitivity to light, sound, and smell
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Food cravings

Some migraine patients don’t experience head pain, but most do. If you suffer from chronic migraines, Jamie can help create an individualized treatment plan that works for you.

What are the treatments for migraines and headaches?

Jamie provides holistic care for migraines and headaches that may include:

• Following a healthy diet that eliminates migraine-triggering foods
• Taking supplements, pain relievers, or prescription medications
• Exercising regularly
• Developing stress management strategies

Call Open Door Wellness Center today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about migraines and headaches.