When people think of migraines, they often imagine a severe headache, but the truth is that migraine is a complex neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. In fact, according to the Global Burden of Disease Survey, migraine ranked as the third most common disorder globally and seventh-highest reason for disability in 2010. So, what is a migraine exactly? It’s not just a bad headache – it’s a chronic condition characterized by recurring episodes of intense head pain, often accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and changes in vision or perception. The International Headache…

Migraine is one of the most widespread health conditions out there, and yet it often goes undiagnosed and misunderstood. In fact, according to migrainemedicine.org, a staggering 39 million people in the United States alone suffer from migraine, with that number ballooning to a whopping 1 billion worldwide. But here’s the thing: migraine is more than just a headache. It’s a neurological disease that can have a profound impact on daily life, affecting not just adults but also children and teens. Yes, you read that right – kids and teenagers are just as likely to experience migraine attacks as grown-ups! The…

When it comes to living with migraine disease, there’s more to the experience than just a pounding headache. For many people, nausea and vomiting are unwelcome guests that can make life miserable. In fact, nearly 73% of those who suffer from migraines also experience queasiness or stomach discomfort. These symptoms can be so debilitating that they’re not just a mere annoyance – they can actually limit your daily activities. And if you do happen to take medication for your migraine, the nausea and vomiting can make it feel like the medicine is trying to make its way back out of…

I never expected to get diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). To me, it was just normal to feel like a tightly wound spring about to snap at any moment. But as I delved deeper into the world of anxiety, I realized that most people don’t live with their worries like I do. My anxiety is like a pressure cooker – a network of pipes and tanks filled with steam that’s just waiting to blow its top. As an actor, I’ve learned to harness this energy and channel it into my craft, but it can be overwhelming at times. I…

As I look around at my social circle, I’m struck by how few people I know personally who live with migraine. Despite the staggering 36 million Americans affected by this condition, it’s easy to feel like you’re flying solo in your journey. And yet, when we do find someone who gets it – someone who understands the daily struggle and the isolation that comes with it – it can be a profoundly uplifting experience. So why are so many of us living with migraine forced to navigate our lives alone? The answer lies in the very nature of the condition…

Living with chronic migraine can be a wild ride of contradictions. One moment, we’re stuck in a routine of rules and restrictions, carefully managing our environments to avoid triggers. The next, we’re faced with the daunting task of being spontaneous and embracing life’s surprises. At migrainemedicine.org, we know that finding balance between these opposing forces is crucial for proactively managing this condition. While some attacks are inevitable (thanks, hormones!), others can be avoided by being mindful of our surroundings. That means making conscious choices about what we eat, when we sleep, and where we go. For example, we might choose…

As someone who’s suffered from chronic migraine, I’m all too familiar with the frustration and discomfort caused by photophobia – the sensitivity to light that can make everyday activities feel like a minefield. My own experience has been particularly challenging, and I’ve had to get creative to find ways to cope. But I’m not alone in this struggle. Photophobia can be a symptom of various conditions beyond migraine, including other medical issues or side effects from medications. So, whether you’re dealing with migraine-induced photophobia or another condition, today’s post is all about finding relief and adapting to life with light…

Are you tired of living with migraine attacks? While traditional diets may seem restrictive, this simple approach can help you identify your personal triggers and find relief. The key is to keep meals straightforward and focus on eliminating potential culprits. By doing so, you’ll gain valuable insights into what’s behind your migraines. Here are some takeaways to get started: What to Try: * Avoid processed foods and opt for fresh ingredients instead. Keep meat simple by cooking or freezing it within a day of purchase. Grind your own meat or have a butcher do it right before you buy it.…

As someone who’s suffered from debilitating migraines, I know how frustrating it can be to navigate the complex world of potential triggers. When you’re considering an elimination diet, it can feel like a daunting task – will your favorite foods be off-limits forever? And what about “healthy” options like citrus fruits and avocados that seem to be on the list? In this post, I’ll share my personal experience with elimination diets and offer some practical tips for getting started. But before we dive in, let me ask: have you ever felt like you’re stuck in a cycle of migraines, trying…

I never chose this life. Fate, genetics, and years of neglecting my own well-being brought me to where I am today – living with chronic conditions that have turned my world upside down. My story is not unique; many people face similar challenges every day. For me, it started with debilitating episodic migraines that eventually became a constant companion. Ten years ago, I was forced to confront them head-on, leading to a series of tests and medication trials that left me feeling more lost than found. The diagnosis – migraine with aura – only marked the beginning of my journey.…