Migraine 101: A 3-Step Guide to Managing Headaches
Migraine sufferer and Director of the Stanford Headache Clinic Dr. Robert Cowan provides a closer look at migraines.
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The Stanford Headache Clinic treats all types of headaches including migraines, tension headaches, cluster headaches, and hypnic headaches.
Migraines are not your fault. Migraine is a genetic and chronic disease like asthma or diabetes, not a psychological or social condition. There is currently no cure for migraines, however, as with other chronic diseases we are becoming increasingly skilled in managing the condition. This means taking measures to identify the triggers that bring on headaches, modify lifestyle to avoid them, and use medications and other therapeutic modalities to treat headaches when they occur.
It is the rare patient who discovers the "cause" for their headaches. For the overwhelming majority of migraine sufferers, it is a combination of little things like adjusting sleep, eating and exercise or avoiding certain partial triggers that seem to contribute. Migraine changes as we move through life stages and what works at one point may become less effective at another point. Similarly, what did not work in one set of circumstances may become effective when those circumstances change.
The bottom line is that migraine can be managed, but it requires vigilance, openness, attention to detail, awareness of your environment and the help of a knowledgeable, involved, and compassionate team of healthcare providers to gain and maintain control and to evolve the treatment plan as your life evolves. Every migraineur is different and no website will replace a careful history and examination with a qualified headache specialist.
Migraine sufferer and Director of the Stanford Headache Clinic Dr. Robert Cowan provides a closer look at migraines.
NBC 11 provides a first look at the Stanford Headache Clinic, where patients benefit from a collaborative approach.
Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may have access to the latest, advanced clinical trials.
Open trials refer to studies currently accepting participants. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but may open in the future.
We will work with your insurance company to secure authorization prior to your visit. If we do not have authorization before your visit, you will be required to pay.
Please confirm the location of your appointment as our doctors see patients in multiple locations.
Return the completed headache history form at least one week prior to your first appointment.
Your first clinic visit may last up to three hours.
International Patients
Phone: +1 650-723-8561
Email: IMS@stanfordhealthcare.org
Phone: 1-866-742-4811
Fax: 650-320-9443
Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Phone: 1-800-800-1551, 24 hours - 7 days a week
Stanford Health Care provides comprehensive services to refer and track patients, as well as provides the latest information and news for physicians and office staff. For help with all referral needs and questions visit Referring Physicians.
Fax a referral form with supporting documentation to 650-320-9443.
To request an appointment, call:
The Neuroscience Clinic at the Boswell Building:
650-723-6469
Headache Clinic at the Hoover Pavilion:
650-723-6469
The Pain Clinic in Redwood City:
650-723-6469