Headache Disorders
Headache and migraine disorders are neurological conditions characterized by recurring episodes of head pain, often accompanied by a range of additional symptoms. Headaches can vary widely in type, cause, and severity, with tension-type headaches being the most common, typically presenting as a dull, aching sensation across the forehead, temples, or back of the head. Migraines, a more complex and often debilitating form of headache, are marked by moderate to severe throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head, and are frequently accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and heightened sensitivity to light, sound, or smell. Many migraine sufferers also experience visual or sensory disturbances known as auras, which can include flashing lights, blind spots, or tingling sensations. Headache and migraine disorders can be episodic or chronic, with chronic forms occurring on 15 or more days per month. Triggers for these disorders are diverse and may include stress, hormonal fluctuations, certain foods or drinks, changes in sleep patterns, environmental factors, and genetic predisposition. Diagnosis is typically clinical, based on patient history and symptom patterns, while treatment ranges from over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription medications to preventive therapies, lifestyle modifications, and stress management techniques aimed at reducing frequency and severity of attacks.
Maine Resources
MaineHealth Neurology Services - Provides extensive neurology services across several facilities, including Maine Medical Center in Portland and MaineHealth Neurology in Scarborough. These centers offer specialized care for both adult and pediatric patients with headache and migraine disorders. Services include thorough diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and preventive treatment plans. Pediatric services also incorporate stress management and behavioral therapy options to help younger patients cope with chronic headaches and migraines.
Osteopathic Health Care of Maine - Located in Portland, Osteopathic Health Care of Maine specializes in osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMT) for the treatment of chronic headaches and migraines. OMT involves hands-on techniques to improve blood flow, ease muscular tension, and enhance overall nervous system function. This alternative, drug-free treatment option is particularly valuable for patients seeking complementary approaches alongside traditional medical care.
Chronic Pain Support Group of Southern Maine - Offers monthly meetings for individuals coping with various forms of chronic pain, including persistent headaches and migraines. Hosted by MaineHealth, the group provides a welcoming environment where participants can share experiences, learn coping strategies, and access emotional support from peers who understand the challenges of living with ongoing pain.
Brain Injury Association of America - Maine Chapter - Offers virtual and in-person support groups for individuals dealing with brain injuries and related chronic conditions, such as post-traumatic headaches and migraines. These groups also serve caregivers and family members, providing educational resources, emotional support, and advocacy for brain injury survivors experiencing headache-related complications.
Maine Migraineurs Facebook Group - An online community where individuals living with migraines across the state can connect, share experiences, and offer mutual support. Members discuss treatment tips, local healthcare resources, and day-to-day coping strategies, creating a valuable peer support network for migraine sufferers navigating chronic head pain.
Regional Resources
Massachusetts
John R. Graham Headache Center (Boston) - Located at Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital, this center offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment for various headache disorders, including migraines, tension-type headaches, and cluster headaches. Established in 1970, it is renowned for clinical excellence and pioneering approaches to headache treatment.
Massachusetts General Hospital Division of Headache and Facial Pain (Boston) - This division provides expert diagnosis and treatment for a range of headache and facial pain disorders. The team offers individualized treatment plans aimed at reducing the severity and frequency of headaches and neuropathic pain.
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Comprehensive Headache Center (Boston) - The center offers a variety of treatments, including intravenous drug therapy, psychological therapy, and neurostimulation. It also participates in clinical and basic research to identify causes of headaches and develop effective treatments.
Lahey Hospital & Medical Center Interventional Headache Center (Burlington) - This center treats a wide range of primary and secondary headache disorders using pharmacological and interventional treatments such as nerve blocks, Botox injections, and nerve stimulator implants.
Baystate Health Headache & Migraine Services (Western MA) - Baystate Neurology offers diagnosis and treatment for migraines and headaches, providing access to neurologists specializing in these conditions.
Headache Support Group at The Stress Reduction Center (Acton) - An 8-week support group designed for individuals with headaches, focusing on sharing experiences and learning effective pain management techniques.
Rhode Island
The Migraine Center at Brown Neurology (Providence) - This center adopts a multidisciplinary approach to migraine and headache management, coordinating care across various medical subspecialties. Treatments include Botox injections, trigger point injections, nerve blocks, and infusion therapy.
Association of Migraine Disorders (Newport) - A nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding the understanding of migraine through research, education, and awareness. It provides resources and support for individuals affected by migraine disorders.
Connecticut
New England Institute for Neurology and Headache (Stamford) - This institute offers personalized care for migraines and other severe headaches. It operates the NeuroFast Drop-in Headache Center for immediate care and is involved in clinical research for developing new treatments.
National Resources
American Migraine Foundation (AMF) - A nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing research, promoting advocacy, and increasing awareness for the millions of Americans living with migraine. It offers a wealth of educational resources, including articles, toolkits, and a comprehensive resource library aimed at helping patients and caregivers understand and manage migraine. The foundation also emphasizes the importance of building support networks for those affected.
National Headache Foundation (NHF) - Established in 1970, the NHF is committed to providing information, education, and support for individuals with headache disorders. It offers a variety of programs, including "Operation Brainstorm™" for veterans, "Migraine University©" for students, and the "HeadWise™" podcast series featuring expert discussions. The NHF also engages in advocacy efforts and provides resources for both patients and healthcare professionals.
American Headache Society (AHS) - Focused on the study and treatment of headache and facial pain. It provides educational resources, clinical guidelines, and research opportunities for healthcare providers. The society also publishes the journal "Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain®" and hosts annual scientific meetings to share advancements in headache medicine.
Association of Migraine Disorders (AMD) - Aims to expand the understanding of migraine through research, education, and awareness. The organization supports innovative research projects, provides educational materials for patients and clinicians, and works to reduce the stigma associated with migraine disorders.
Alliance for Headache Disorders Advocacy (AHDA) - Dedicated to advocating for fair policies at the federal level for individuals affected by headache disorders. It organizes the annual "Headache on the Hill" event, where patients and healthcare providers meet with lawmakers to discuss the impact of headache disorders and advocate for increased research funding and improved access to care.
Chronic Migraine Awareness, Inc. (CMA) - Offers virtual support groups for individuals living with chronic migraine, providing a platform for sharing experiences and coping strategies. The organization also maintains a closed Facebook group for ongoing support and community building among those affected by chronic migraine.
Miles for Migraine - Focuses on raising awareness and funding for migraine research through community events and educational programs. It offers support groups, educational webinars, and advocacy training to empower individuals with migraine and their families.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) - As part of the National Institutes of Health, NINDS provides comprehensive information on migraine, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and ongoing research efforts. It serves as a valuable resource for patients seeking evidence-based information on neurological disorders.