What is Migraine?
Migraine is a complex neurological condition affecting millions worldwide, characterized by intense headaches often accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances. At Brundavan Hospital, recognized as the best migraine hospital in Kakinada, our team led by Dr. Srinivas Bikkina, renowned as the best migraine doctor in Kakinada, provides comprehensive care using advanced treatment protocols.
Understanding Migraine: More Than Just a Headache
Unlike regular headaches, migraines involve:
- Throbbing or pulsating pain, typically on one side of the head
- Duration ranging from 4 to 72 hours if untreated
- Pain intensity that worsens with physical activity
- Sensory sensitivities (light, sound, smells)
- Possible aura symptoms before headache onset
Comprehensive List of Migraine Symptoms
Prodrome Phase (1-2 days before migraine):
- Mood changes (depression/euphoria)
- Food cravings
- Neck stiffness
- Increased thirst and urination
Aura Phase (5-60 minutes before headache):
- Visual phenomena (flashing lights, zigzag patterns)
- Tingling in face/limbs
- Speech difficulties
- Rare cases of limb weakness (hemiplegic migraine)
Attack Phase:
- Unilateral throbbing pain (60% of cases)
- Nausea and vomiting (90% of patients)
- Photophobia and phonophobia (80%)
- Dizziness/vertigo (40%)
Postdrome Phase (24-48 hours after):
- Fatigue and cognitive impairment
- Neck pain
- Mood changes
Root Causes and Triggers of Migraine
Biological Factors:
- Genetic predisposition: 70% of migraineurs have family history
- Neurological abnormalities: Cortical spreading depression theory
- Neurotransmitter imbalances: Serotonin fluctuations
- Vascular changes: Blood vessel dilation/constriction
Common Triggers:
- Hormonal changes (menstrual cycles, menopause)
- Stress and anxiety (post-stress "let-down" migraines)
- Sleep pattern disturbances
- Dietary factors (aged cheese, processed meats, alcohol)
- Environmental factors (weather changes, strong odors)
Advanced Migraine Diagnosis at Brundavan Hospital
Our best migraine specialist in Kakinada, Dr. Srinivas Bikkina, follows rigorous diagnostic protocols:
- Detailed medical history: Tracking frequency, duration, characteristics
- Headache diary analysis: Identifying patterns and triggers
- Neurological examination: Assessing reflexes, coordination, sensation
- Diagnostic criteria: Meeting ICHD-3 standards
Red flag symptoms requiring immediate attention include thunderclap headaches, fever with headache, or neurological deficits.
Comprehensive Migraine Treatment Approaches
Acute (Abortive) Treatment:
- NSAIDs: Ibuprofen, naproxen sodium
- Triptans: Sumatriptan, rizatriptan (contraindicated in CVD)
- Anti-emetics: For nausea/vomiting
- Dihydroergotamine: For prolonged attacks
Preventive Treatment (Prophylaxis):
- Beta-blockers: Propranolol, metoprolol
- Antidepressants: Amitriptyline, venlafaxine
- Anticonvulsants: Topiramate, valproate
- CGRP monoclonal antibodies: Newer biologic options
Non-Pharmacological Therapies:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): For stress management
- Biofeedback: Physiological control techniques
- Lifestyle modifications: Sleep hygiene, regular exercise
- Dietary adjustments: Identifying food triggers
Why Choose Brundavan Hospital for Migraine Treatment in Kakinada?
- Expert-led care: Dr. Srinivas Bikkina brings years of specialized experience in migraine management
- Personalized treatment plans: Tailored to each patient's migraine pattern and lifestyle
- Multidisciplinary approach: Combining medication, lifestyle counseling, and advanced therapies
- Evidence-based protocols: Following international treatment guidelines
- Comprehensive follow-up: Ensuring long-term migraine control
Specialized Care for All Migraine Types
Migraine Without Aura (Common Migraine):
Accounting for 70-90% of cases, characterized by recurrent headache attacks lasting 4-72 hours with typical migraine features.
Migraine With Aura (Classic Migraine):
Present in 25-30% of patients, featuring reversible neurological symptoms (visual, sensory, speech) preceding headache.
Chronic Migraine:
Headache occurring ≥15 days/month for >3 months, with ≥8 days having migraine features. Requires specialized preventive strategies.
Menstrual Migraine:
Exclusively occurring in relation to menstrual cycle, often more severe and less responsive to standard treatment.
When to Seek Emergency Care for Migraine
While most migraines can be managed outpatient, immediate medical attention is needed for:
- "Worst headache of your life" onset
- Headache with fever, neck stiffness, or rash
- Headache following head trauma
- New neurological deficits (weakness, vision loss)
- First migraine after age 50
Take Control of Your Migraines with Expert Care
At Brundavan Hospital, the premier migraine treatment center in Kakinada, we combine medical excellence with compassionate care. Under the guidance of Dr. Srinivas Bikkina, our general physician and migraine specialist, we've successfully helped hundreds of patients achieve better migraine control and improved quality of life.
With proper diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support, most migraine sufferers can significantly reduce attack frequency and severity. Don't let migraines control your life – seek expert care today.