Neurology is a term that derives from Greek words that roughly mean the study of neurons. It is a branch of medicine that specifically handles problems with the nervous system. Neurologists diagnose, treat, and try to prevent neurological diseases. Neurologists also participate in clinical studies which include trials and research.  Neurologists in the United States and Canada have at least 10-13 years of medical schooling and clinical training. After the normal undergraduate degree they have to go onto medical school which can take another four years to complete. Then only after a year of internship and then 3-4 years of residency they can be called a neurologist.

 

Migraines are probably the most common neurological disease we are faced with. These can be considered by chronic headaches that range from moderate to severe pain. Other autonomic nervous system symptoms often occur as well. With a Migraine the headache is usually only felt on one side of the head and can last anywhere from 2-72 hours. Sensitivity to light, sounds, and smells is also very common. Migraines like a lot of other neurological diseases are very little understood. Most of what we know about them is educated speculation.

 

Most people that have migraines experience what is called an aura. This aura is a visual or sensory signal that the person can sense. Read more about this here. This is usually followed by a migraine. This aura phase can last upwards to, but rarely longer than 60 minutes. The majority of people that experience the aura phase have explained similar symptoms. The visual aura has been explained as a flicker or blurring of the vision in one area. This can make it difficult to read and in some cases see in general. Other people have also explained that zig zag like lines seem to appear.

 

Another form of aura is considered a sensory aura. This form of aura the person feels tingly like pins are being pricked into their skin on one side of their hand. The sensation then moves up to their arm, neck, then head. This is usually followed by a sense of numbness and a loss of sense of position.

 

Other forms of sensory auras have been described to doctors as well. Some of these symptoms consist of auditory and visual hallucinations. The loss of the ability to speak correctly as well as language loss has been reported as well.

 

If you are experiencing painful headaches that you think might be migraines you should see a neurologist for migraine botox. They can help narrow down options to help you live a happier migraine free life.