Skip to main content
Dr. Golian logo

Patient Education

Migraines & Headache Disorders

Thoughtful, individualized care to calm recurring headaches and help you reclaim your days.

Migraines are far more than ordinary headaches — they're a neurological condition that can disrupt work, sleep, and everyday life. In her Los Angeles practice, Dr. Golian helps you understand your triggers and build a plan that blends preventive therapy with effective acute treatment to reduce how often and how severely your headaches strike.

Symptoms & Warning Signs

  • Throbbing or pulsing pain, often on one side of the head
  • Sensitivity to light, sound, or strong smells
  • Nausea or vomiting during an attack
  • Visual aura — flashing lights, blind spots, or zigzag lines before pain begins
  • Pain that worsens with movement or physical activity
  • Lingering fatigue or difficulty concentrating after the headache eases

Causes & Risk Factors

  • Family history of migraines
  • Hormonal shifts, including those tied to the menstrual cycle
  • Poor or irregular sleep and disrupted routines
  • Stress, anxiety, and emotional tension
  • Dietary triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, aged cheeses, or skipped meals
  • Uncontrolled blood pressure or other underlying medical conditions

How Dr. Golian Manages Migraines & Headache Disorders

Care begins with a careful history and a thorough examination to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of headache. Dr. Golian works with you to identify patterns and triggers — frequently a headache diary reveals connections to sleep, stress, or diet.

From there, she tailors a plan that may pair acute medications to stop an attack with daily preventive therapy when headaches are frequent. Because migraines often travel alongside anxiety and sleep difficulties, she addresses those connected concerns as part of the same plan.

For complex, frequent, or treatment-resistant headaches, Dr. Golian arranges a neurology referral so that your care stays seamless.

Preventing Migraines & Living Well

Many attacks become less frequent once daily habits are steadied. Consistent sleep, regular meals, hydration, and stress management often make a meaningful difference.

Dr. Golian can help you map your personal triggers and, where it fits, layer in a lifestyle modification plan — small, sustainable changes that work alongside your medications rather than replacing them.

Frequently Asked Questions

1What's the difference between a migraine and a regular headache?
A migraine is a neurological condition, not just head pain. It often brings throbbing pain on one side, nausea, and sensitivity to light or sound, and it can last hours to days — far more disruptive than a typical tension headache.
2How do I know if I need preventive medication?
If headaches are frequent, long-lasting, or interfere with your daily life, a daily preventive plan may help. Dr. Golian reviews how often your attacks occur and how well acute treatments are working to decide whether prevention is the right step.
3Can migraines be a sign of something more serious?
Most migraines are not dangerous, but certain warning signs — a sudden severe headache, one with fever or confusion, or a clear change in your usual pattern — warrant prompt evaluation. Dr. Golian will assess these and coordinate further testing or specialist care if needed.
4What lifestyle changes actually reduce migraines?
Consistent sleep, regular meals, staying hydrated, limiting known dietary triggers, and managing stress are among the most effective steps. A simple headache diary often reveals which changes matter most for you.
5Will I need to see a neurologist?
Many patients are managed entirely within primary care. For frequent, complex, or treatment-resistant migraines, Dr. Golian coordinates a referral to a neurologist.

Take Control of Your Migraines & Headache Disorders

Let's build a personalized plan to reduce your headaches and help you feel like yourself again.

Schedule a Consultation

Medical Disclaimer

The information on this site is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading this site does not create a doctor–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal guidance. If this is an emergency, call 911. Mentions of medications, devices, or procedures are informational and not endorsements. Full medical disclaimer.

Some listed indications involve investigational/off-label use. Learn more.