How does AndHealth treat chronic migraines?

Medically reviewed by: Dr. Ken Mankowski, DO FACN, AndHealth neurologist

Chronic migraine is a neurological condition defined by having headaches on 15 or more days each month, with at least eight of those days showing migraine features such as throbbing pain, nausea, or light sensitivity. These recurring migraines can severely affect your daily life and require specialized care to prevent and reduce attacks.

Chronic migraines are less common than typical migraines and often require specialized care. AndHealth treats people living with chronic migraines in Ohio with a whole person, comprehensive approach. You will work with a coordinated neurology care team with decades of experience, including a board-certified neurologist and a clinical pharmacist.

Common chronic migraine symptoms

Symptoms can vary from person to person, but often include this list.

These and any other symptoms will be evaluated as part of your appointments with the AndHealth neurology provider team.

Moderate to severe throbbing pain, often one-sided
Nausea and vomiting
Sensitivity to light, sound, or smell
Fatigue and difficulty concentrating (“migraine fog”)
Neck stiffness
Mood changes before or after attacks
Visual or sensory changes (aura) can also occur at times
Sleep disturbances

Lifestyle tips

Managing complex migraines often includes a combination of lifestyle and preventive strategies.

These lifestyle habits may be part of a personalized treatment plan that your AndHealth neurologist team creates for you, based on your health needs.

Your AndHealth neurologist, health coach, and clinical pharmacist work together to identify your unique migraine triggers and develop sustainable habits that reduce attack frequency and intensity.

Keeping a headache diary to track triggers such as stress, sleep, or certain foods
Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
Staying hydrated and eating regular, balanced meals
Prioritizing rest and energy conservation strategies
Reducing stress with relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or biofeedback
Avoiding overuse of caffeine or pain medications, which can worsen headaches

Specialty medications

For chronic migraine, specialty treatments focus on preventing attacks and reducing severity. These medications may target the pathways involved in migraine pain or help stabilize nerve activity. These treatments may be oral, injectable, or infused. They are filled by a specialty pharmacy.

Possible side effects include nausea, dizziness, constipation, or fatigue. Your AndHealth neurologist and clinical pharmacist providers will help you understand what to expect and monitor you for any concerning side effects.

Medications used for Chronic Migraine