Transverse myelitis is a rare neurological condition characterized by inflammation of the spinal cord. This inflammation interrupts the signals that the spinal cord nerves send throughout the body, leading to various symptoms such as weakness, numbness, tingling sensations, and in severe cases, paralysis. The onset of transverse myelitis can be sudden, often causing rapid progression of symptoms within hours or days, though it can also develop more gradually over time. While the exact cause of transverse myelitis is often unknown, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as MRI to assess the extent of spinal cord inflammation.

Treatment for transverse myelitis focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause of inflammation. This often involves a combination of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, pain medications to alleviate discomfort, and physical therapy to help regain strength and mobility. In some cases, other medications to suppress the immune system or intravenous immunoglobulin therapy may be prescribed to modulate the immune response. While many individuals with transverse myelitis experience significant improvement in symptoms with treatment, some may continue to have long-term complications such as chronic pain or mobility limitations. Thus, ongoing medical care and support are essential to optimize quality of life for those affected by this challenging condition.

Beh SC, Greenberg BM, Frohman T, Frohman EM. Transverse myelitis. Neurol Clin. 2013 Feb;31(1):79-138. doi: 10.1016/j.ncl.2012.09.008. PMID: 23186897; PMCID: PMC7132741.

Rodríguez Y, Rojas M, Pacheco Y, Acosta-Ampudia Y, Ramírez-Santana C, Monsalve DM, Gershwin ME, Anaya JM. Guillain-Barré syndrome, transverse myelitis and infectious diseases. Cell Mol Immunol. 2018 Jun;15(6):547-562. doi: 10.1038/cmi.2017.142. Epub 2018 Jan 29. PMID: 29375121; PMCID: PMC6079071.

By: Andrew Chan, PA

Vertigo is a disruptive sensation of spinning or movement when a person is not actually moving. It is often described as feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or experiencing a spinning sensation. Vertigo can result from various underlying causes, including inner ear problems, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, Meniere’s disease, or even more serious conditions like vestibular migraines or acoustic neuromas. The sensation of vertigo can be triggered by sudden head movements, changes in position, or even simply lying down or getting up from bed. While vertigo itself is not typically a serious condition, it can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, leading to falls, accidents, and anxiety in severe cases.

Diagnosis of vertigo often involves a comprehensive medical history, physical examination, and specialized tests such as the Dix-Hallpike maneuver or electronystagmography to assess inner ear function and rule out other potential causes. Treatment for vertigo depends on the underlying cause and may include vestibular rehabilitation exercises to improve balance and reduce symptoms, medications to alleviate nausea and dizziness, or surgical interventions in rare cases. Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding sudden head movements or triggers, can also help manage vertigo symptoms effectively. Overall, early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial in providing relief and improving the quality of life for individuals experiencing vertigo. Schedule a consultation with one of our providers at The Manhattan Center for Headache & Neurology or it’s sister site, Nervana Neurospa.

By: Andrew Chan, PA

Kim JS, Newman-Toker DE, Kerber KA, Jahn K, Bertholon P, Waterston J, Lee H, Bisdorff A, Strupp M. Vascular vertigo and dizziness: Diagnostic criteria. J Vestib Res. 2022;32(3):205-222. doi: 10.3233/VES-210169. PMID: 35367974; PMCID: PMC9249306.

Migraine is a common headache disorder characterized by symptoms that typically occur over several hours to a few days. Migraine-associated stroke (also known as migrainous infarction or migraine-induced stroke) is an uncommon complication of migraine identified by ischemic stroke on neuroimaging that corresponds to prolonged aura symptoms in a patient with migraine.
The reported incidence of stroke due to migraine (migrainous stroke) ranges from 0.8 to 3.4 per 100,000 per year.
Clinical factors associated with an elevated risk of stroke in patients with migraine include:
-Patients with migraine with aura
-Female patients
-Patients who smoke
-Patients who take estrogen-containing contraception
-Patients age <45 years Clinical symptoms of migraine-associated stroke are typically similar to previous migraine aura without new or atypical symptoms. However, the previously transient aura symptoms persist for longer duration. Migrainous infarction occurs in a patient with migraine with aura that is typical of previous attacks except that one or more aura symptoms persists for >60 minutes. Neuroimaging demonstrates ischemic infarction in a relevant area.
Both cerebrovascular events and migraine attacks can present as acute transient neurologic events with similar symptoms. In addition, acute neurologic symptoms that are persistent may also be caused by either migraine or stroke.
For new or alarming symptoms persisting for longer duration, please seek emergency or urgent care. For an evaluation for ongoing care, please make an appointment with one of our caring providers today.
–Alice Wong, NP
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/migraine-associated-stroke-risk-factors-diagnosis-and-prevention

Migraines are a type of headache that causes moderate to severe head pain with varying degrees of sensations that differ from person to person. It currently affects 12% of the population in our country. As we gather history and physical evidence from patients, it is shown to be prevalent in those with psychiatric comorbidities. Of these conditions, anxiety was at the top of the list. Why is that? Migraine and anxiety are very closely related due to their similar clinical features, presentation methods, and the episodic nature of their attacks (Kumar et al., 2022). Norton et al. conducted a study in 2004 using structural equation modeling among patients experiencing recurrent headaches; the results of the study concluded that pain-related fear, escape, and avoidance behavior are greatly affected by Anxiety Sensitivity in patients with recurrent headaches (Kumar et al., 2022). In patients with chronic migraine that suffer from repeated migraine attacks, it is also found that there is an alteration in the architecture and function of several regions of the limbic system and also an alteration in the functional connectivity of the hippocampus with other brain regions (Kumar et al., 2022). Not only is this a bidirectional relationship, where one increases the risk of the other, but it has also caused changes in several brain regions. Isn’t that so interesting to know? As providers, this is why it is crucial for us to screen and treat anxiety disorders in patients with migraines effectively.

R. Kumar, S. Asif, A. Bali, D. Gonzalez (2022). The Development and Impact of Anxiety With Migraines: A Narrative Review. Cureus 2022 Jun; 14(6): e26419. Published online 2022 Jun 29. doi: 10.7759/cureus.26419

By: Sheina Roberts, NP

Tulips are blooming, the birds are chirping, and an extra hour of daylight is upon us. Spring is near! To most, extra hours of daylight is meaningful in the sense of more vitamin D exposure, more outside extracurricular activities and vacation! These positive aspects can transcend into happiness! However, those diagnosed with episodic cluster type headache can beg to differ.

Daylight savings affects the circadian rhythm and seasonal changes can result in sleep dysregulation.

Cluster type headache is characterized by agonizing painful attacks that can last 15 minutes up to an hour. Pain is excruciating and usually localized on one side of the head. Associated symptoms include lacrimation, eyelid droop, nasal congestion and/or rhinorrhea. These attacks tend to occur at predictable times and approximately 80% of patients report that these headaches follow a 24 hour cyclical pattern.

More daylight often means a disruption in sleep patterns. The change in season interferes with the biological clock and could potentially lower the threshold for activating a cluster attack.

The Manhattan Center for Headache and Neurology and its sister site Nervana Neurospa have exceptional providers that can help patients with Cluster headaches understand the mechanisms that contribute to an uptick in attacks due to seasonal fluctuations. Additionally, we can provide options for pain relief!

Cheers to a prosperous Spring!

By: Jordan Shankle, PA

You can ask yourself the following questions from the ID Migraine Questionnaire developed by Dr. Richard Lipton, Albert Einstein College of Medicine:
· In the past three months, how disabling are your headaches? Do they interfere with your ability to function? Are you missing work, school or family activities?
· Do you ever feel nausea when you have a headache?
· Do you become sensitive to light while you have a headache?
If you answer “yes” to two of the three questions, there is a very high chance you have migraine. Those with headaches from sinus disease are less likely to answer yes to the above questions.
If you think your sinus headaches could actually be migraine attacks, please make an appointment with one of our providers to evaluate.
–Alice Wong, NP

Delayed onset migraine or “Late Life Migraine”, is a primary headache syndrome. Symptoms are similar to classic Migraine. However, onset is after the age of 50. Additionally, this type of migraine is associated with Aura without headache. The most common type of aura is visual aura. This aura classically begins as a small area of visual loss. It may either appear as a bright spot or as an area of visual loss. Duration is between five minutes to one hour. These visual auras are often followed by sensory aura ( abnormal sensations ), speech disturbances and or motor auras ( muscle weakness).

The Manhattan Center for Headache and Neurology has exceptional providers to help diagnose and potentially treat this type of headache syndrome.

By: Jordan Shankle, PA

Living with migraines can be a debilitating experience, especially when trying to navigate the demands of a typical workday. However, workplaces can play a crucial role in supporting employees who suffer from migraines by offering accommodations that enable them to manage their condition effectively. These accommodations can range from flexible work hours and remote work options to creating a conducive environment with adequate lighting and noise reduction measures. Additionally, providing access to quiet, dimly lit spaces where employees can rest during a migraine attack can significantly alleviate their symptoms and enhance productivity once they return to work.

Moreover, fostering a culture of understanding and empathy towards migraine sufferers is essential for creating a supportive work environment. Educating managers and colleagues about the impact of migraines and the importance of accommodations can help reduce stigma and promote inclusivity. By implementing these measures, employers not only demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their employees but also harness the diverse talents and contributions of individuals who might otherwise struggle to perform at their best due to migraine-related challenges.

By: Andrew Chan, PA

Burch R, Rizzoli P, Loder E. The prevalence and impact of migraine and severe headache in the United States: figures and trends from government health studies. Headache. 2018;58(4):496–505. doi: 10.1111/head.13281.

Begasse de Dhaem O, Sakai F. Migraine in the workplace. eNeurologicalSci. 2022 Jun 6;27:100408. doi: 10.1016/j.ensci.2022.100408. PMID: 35774055; PMCID: PMC9237352.

Migraine is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent, throbbing headaches often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light, and other symptoms. While the exact cause of migraines is not fully understood, various triggers, including dietary factors, have been identified. Some individuals report a connection between the consumption of certain foods or additives and the onset of migraines. One controversial topic in this regard is the potential link between artificial sweeteners found in diet sodas and the occurrence of migraines. Some studies suggest that substances like aspartame, commonly used in diet sodas, may act as triggers for migraines in susceptible individuals. However, the evidence is not conclusive, and more research is needed to establish a clear connection between artificial sweeteners and migraine headaches.

Artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose, are commonly used in diet sodas as sugar substitutes to provide sweetness without the added calories. Despite being approved by regulatory authorities as safe for consumption, concerns have been raised about their potential health effects, including their role in triggering migraines. Individuals who experience migraines are often advised to monitor their diet and identify potential triggers, which may include artificial sweeteners. It is essential for those prone to migraines to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice, as triggers can vary widely among individuals. The relationship between artificial sweeteners and migraines remains an ongoing area of research, with experts aiming to provide clearer insights into the potential impact of these additives on migraine susceptibility.

Grotz VL. Sucralose and migraine. Headache. 2008 Jan;48(1):164-5. doi: 10.1111/j.1526-4610.2007.00983.x. PMID: 18184301.

You can ask yourself the following questions from the ID Migraine Questionnaire developed by Dr. Richard Lipton, Albert Einstein College of Medicine: 

In the past three months, how disabling are your headaches? Do they interfere with your ability to function? Are you missing work, school or family activities? 
Do you ever feel nausea when you have a headache? 
Do you become sensitive to light while you have a headache? 
 
If you answer “yes” to two of the three questions, there is a very high chance you have migraine. Those with headaches from sinus disease are less likely to answer yes to the above questions. 
If you think your sinus headaches could actually be migraine attacks, please make an appointment with one of our providers to evaluate.  Come visit us at The Manhattan Center for Headache and Neurology or Nervana Neurospa.
 
–Alice Wong, NP