Migraine And Headache Specialist

Carolina Neurology Center, PLLC

Aneeta Jain Gupta, MD, DM

Board Certified Neurologist & Sleep Medicine Physician located in Hendersonville, NC serving Asheville, Brevard, Columbus, Weaverville, Morganton, NC and Upstate SC.

About 1 in 7 people regularly experience migraine headaches. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, migraine can negatively affect your quality of life, and make it difficult to work or participate in activities you enjoy. At Carolina Neurology Center, PLLC, in Hendersonville, North Carolina, board-certified neurologist Aneeta Gupta, MD, DM, works with people of all ages to relieve migraine headaches. To schedule an appointment, call the office or book online today.

828-684-1119

Migraine and Headache Q&A

What is a migraine?

A migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by severe pain or a throbbing, pulsing sensation that occurs on one side of the head. Many people also experience feelings of nausea, dizziness, and increased sensitivity to light and sound.

Unlike tension or cluster headaches, a migraine can last for days at a time. As a result, you may find it difficult to exercise, spend time with family or friends, or complete routine activities like chores around the house.

What are the symptoms of a migraine?

A migraine consists of four separate stages: prodrome, aura, attack, and post-drome. Symptoms vary during each of these stages and include:

Mood changes
Food cravings
Increased thirst
Neck stiffness
Vision loss or sensitivity to light
Numbness in the face or limbs
Vomiting
Severe head pain

If you experience these or other similar symptoms regularly, it’s important to seek professional medical help as soon as possible.

How are migraine headaches diagnosed?

To diagnose migraines, Dr. Gupta conducts a physical exam and neurological evaluation, asks you about your symptoms and lifestyle, and reviews your medical history. If your headaches are unusual, or suddenly become more intense, she might also order an MRI or computed tomography (CT) scan to rule out other potential causes.

How are migraines treated?

Treatment for migraines depends on the severity of your symptoms and their effect on your quality of life. Dr. Gupta usually recommends conservative, integrative therapies For example, you might benefit from drinking plenty of fluids, establishing a regular sleep routine, and eating a healthy, balanced diet.

Dr. Gupta also recommends using relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation. When you’re able to cope with stressful situations, you can also reduce the frequency and severity of the migraines you have.

If your migraines persist, even with these changes, you might benefit from Botox® injections. Botox is a neuromodulator. Once the medication enters your body, it envelopes nerve endings and blocks the release of chemicals responsible for pain transmission. One in-office Botox treatment lasts for 10-12 weeks. During this time, the number of headaches you experience drops by about 50%.

To explore your migraine treatment options, schedule an appointment at Carolina Neurology Center, PLLC. Call the office or book online today.