Migraine
What Is It?
A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent moderate-to-severe throbbing headache, often unilateral, with nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. May have aura.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Clinical diagnosis using ICHD criteria. Neuroimaging (MRI brain) if atypical features, first severe headache, or neurological deficits.
How Is It Treated?
Acute: triptans (sumatriptan), NSAIDs, antiemetics. Preventive: beta-blockers (propranolol), topiramate, amitriptyline, CGRP antagonists (rimegepant, ubrogepant, erenumab injections).
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
Clinical diagnosis primarily. MRI brain if red flag headache features. Labs to rule out secondary causes.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. MRI brain: $500-$1,200. Sumatriptan: $20-$60 per course. CGRP injections: $600-$800/month.