Can Stem Cell Therapy Be Used To Treat Severe Migraines

More than 37 million Americans suffer from migraine headaches. Most migraines cause moderate symptoms, only occur from time to time, and can be managed with traditional treatments. However, some patients experience severe, frequent migraines that do not respond to treatment. In such cases, experimental treatments such as stem cell therapy may be considered.

About Migraines

Migraines are throbbing headaches that usually only affect one side of the head. They are moderate to severe in intensity, and may be accompanied by symptoms such as light sensitivity, nausea, and irritability. Although migraines are very common, their exact cause is unknown. 

Migraines can be debilitating. People experiencing a migraine are often unable to think clearly or function at their normal level. This can result in time away from work and social life. 

Traditional Migraine Treatments

Traditional migraine treatments are aimed at controlling symptoms and preventing future migraines from occurring. Some treatments include: 

• Avoiding triggers - Some people find that their migraines are triggered by certain foods or stressors. Avoiding triggers can prevent migraines from occuring.
• Migraine relievers - Taken to treat symptoms once they have already begun. This category includes pain relievers like aspirin, ergots like caffeine, triptans like Imitrex, anti-nausea medications, and more.
• Preventative medications - These drugs are taken regularly, usually daily, to prevent migraines. Because they can have side effects, preventative medications are usually reserved for people who have more frequent and severe migraines. Antidepressants, cardiovascular drugs, anti-seizure drugs, and Botox have all been used to prevent migraines.

Stem Cell Therapy for Migraines

Stem cells are cells that have the potential to differentiate into many other types of cells. Stem cells have long been researched for their promise in the treatment of a wide variety of conditions, including migraines. They can be harvested from a number of sources, including human embryos, umbilical cord blood, and adult tissue such as bone marrow and fat. 

During stem cell therapy for migraines, stem cells collected from the patient's bone marrow are injected into an artery, which allows them to reach the vein at the highest possible concentration. The stem cells replace unhealthy cells with healthy cells, resulting in relief from migraines in many cases.

Dr. Sukdeb Datta would be happy to meet with you about whether stem cell therapy is right for your severe migraines. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at (212) 430-0312.