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Mental Health & Headache

What Causes Migraine and How Can a Specialist Help?

The Haven Team
June 25, 2025
5
min read
Diet Coke

Migraine is a complex neurological conditions caused by genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Understanding what triggers migraine attacks and how a headache specialist can tailor treatment is essential to managing and reducing migraine episodes. Haven Headache & Migraine Center in San Francisco offers expert diagnosis and personalized care plans delivered virtually to patients across California, including Orange County, ensuring fast access to specialized treatment.

What Causes Migraine?

Genetic and neurological factors play a significant role in migraine attacks, which often run in families. Abnormal brain activity affects nerve signaling and blood vessels, causing inflammation and pain. Specific nerves, such as the trigeminal nerve, become sensitized during migraine episodes.

Chemical imbalances involving brain chemicals like serotonin and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) influence migraine intensity and frequency.

Common migraine triggers include hormonal changes (such as those related to menstrual cycles), stress, sleep disturbances, certain foods or drinks (like alcohol and caffeine), bright lights or weather changes, physical exertion, and some medications. Identifying and avoiding your specific triggers is a key prevention method, but for many it's not enough.

How Can a Migraine Specialist Help?

A headache specialist from Haven conducts a thorough evaluation—reviewing your medical history, symptoms, and performing neurological exams. Imaging tests may be done to rule out other causes. Specialists then design personalized treatment plans which may include preventive and acute medications, Botox injections, nerve blocks, neuromodulation devices like CEFALY and Nerivio, and lifestyle coaching tailored to your triggers and symptoms.

Ongoing support through virtual follow-ups allows for treatment adjustments, education on migraine management, and coordination with local healthcare providers for in-person therapies when needed.

Why Choose Haven Headache & Migraine Center?

Haven is led by UCNS-certified headache specialists renowned for their expertise in migraine treatment. Their virtual-first care model offers convenient, timely access to expert care for patients in San Francisco, Orange County, and beyond. With a 5.0-star Google rating and a strong history of effective patient outcomes, Haven provides compassionate, comprehensive care that improves quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Haven’s Services

What kinds of headache conditions does Haven treat?
Haven specializes in treating various headache disorders such as migraine (with or without aura), vestibular migraine, cluster headaches, tension headaches, post-concussion headaches, and headaches related to long COVID.

How do Haven’s virtual appointments work?
Haven offers virtual consultations with headache specialists who provide diagnosis, treatment plans, and follow-up care, allowing patients statewide to receive expert care without traveling.

What in-person services does Haven provide?
For treatments like Botox injections, nerve blocks, or IV infusions, Haven coordinates in-person care with trusted partners across California, including in Orange County.

Does Haven accept insurance, and which plans are accepted?
Haven is in-network with most major PPO plans, TriCare, and Medicare. HMO patients can be seen with an out-of-network agreement. Haven is in-network with Brown & Toland HMO plans. PPO plans covered include Aetna, Anthem, Blue Shield of California, Cigna, United Healthcare, and Healthnet. Cash-pay options are also available for patients without insurance coverage.

What additional support does Haven provide?
Haven offers comprehensive care, including headache diaries for symptom tracking, behavioral health coaching through partnerships, and personalized lifestyle guidance to improve migraine management.

Your Path to Migraine Relief

If you’re searching for a trusted headache doctor in Orange County, Haven Headache & Migraine Center offers the fastest path to relief. With UCNS-certified specialists, proven treatment plans, and a 5.0-star Google rating, Haven provides expert migraine care without long waits or travel hassles.

Book your consultation today:
Schedule your appointment with Haven Headache & Migraine Center, delivering expert virtual care throughout California.

Office: (424) 444-7399

Email: hello@havenheadache.com

Receive personalized care designed to reduce headache days and restore your quality of life. Start with a free intro call and discover how Haven helps Orange County patients feel better, faster.

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