You may already know that medicines can be used to manage chronic migraines, such as pain relievers when symptoms occur and preventative medications to reduce frequency. Additionally, it is beneficial to avoid triggers that lead to migraine attacks.
An alternate approach is TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation). This device works by transmitting painless magnetic signals to the scalp. While it is not precisely known how it functions, the idea is that these signals adjust brain activity in order to reduce symptoms.
Migraine Explained: The Stages of Migraine
A migraine is a recurring, moderate to severe headache that can last anywhere from four hours to several days. It is typically accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light or sound, and loss of appetite. There are four distinct stages of a migraine: the prodrome stage, aura stage, attack stage, and postdrome stage.
The prodrome stage typically occurs 1-2 days before a migraine attack and can cause subtle changes in mood, behavior, and physical symptoms. These symptoms may include depression, food cravings, fatigue, stiff neck or shoulders, yawning, constipation or diarrhea, and increased thirst or urination.
During the aura stage, some people may experience visual, sensory, or motor symptoms. Examples of visual auras include flashes of light or zig-zag lines in the field of vision. Sensory auras can manifest as tingling, numbness, and weakness on one side of the body. Motor auras usually involve temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the body.
The attack stage is the most intense phase of a migraine and usually involves severe pain or extreme pounding in one area of the head, lasting anywhere from four to 72 hours. Other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound are common during this stage.
The postdrome stage occurs after the migraine attack has ended. During this stage, people may feel drained and exhausted. Some people may even experience a migraine hangover effect where they still have some of the migraine symptoms such as lightheadedness or confusion.
Managing a migraine can involve lifestyle modifications, stress management, and medications. Eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, reducing stress levels, and avoiding triggers such as bright lights, strong smells or certain foods can help minimize the frequency and severity of migraine.
Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation TMS for Migraines
Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment used to relieve migraines and headaches. It uses magnetic fields to stimulate the brain which helps to reduce food cravings, prevents migraines, and lessens head pain. It has also been used to treat obsessive compulsive disorder OCD, depressive symptoms, and other mental health conditions.
TMS has been approved by the FDA as a safe and effective treatment for migraine headaches. The TMS specialist places a coil over the side of the head which delivers an electromagnetic pulse to the area of your brain that is responsible for controlling pain signals. This stimulates nerve cells to help reduce or even eliminate the symptoms of migraine.
A recent review evaluated eight studies to evaluate the efficacy of TMS in treating migraine. A total of over 200 individuals completed the treatment, and two studies provided evidence that using TMS on the motor cortex area of the brain was effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. The results showed that TMS could potentially be a viable treatment for migraines.
The deep TMS treatment consists of several sessions that are administered over a few weeks or months. The duration and intensity of each session will depend on the individual’s condition and response to treatment. Deep TMS technology can be used alone or in combination with medications, lifestyle changes, and other treatments to help reduce migraine symptoms.
Side effects of deep TMS treatment are generally mild and include headaches, scalp discomfort, and nausea. However, it is important to closely monitor your response to treatment and report any changes in symptoms to your doctor.
TMS Therapy has minimal side effects and can be used as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with medications, lifestyle changes, and other treatments to help reduce symptoms of migraine.
In conclusion, TMS Therapy can be a beneficial treatment option for those suffering from migraines. It is an FDA-approved procedure that is noninvasive and typically has minimal side effects. Additionally, it is covered by most major insurance companies.
With all of these positives, it’s easy to see why more and more people are choosing TMS Therapy as a viable treatment option. With continued use, TMS Therapy can provide significant relief from migraine headaches. Find a provider near you today and start feeling better!