Migraines – a common yet debilitating headache disorder that can impact anyone, but disproportionately affects women (2-3 times more likely than men). In fact, research suggests that migraine is one of the most significant causes of disability worldwide. So, what’s going on? And how do we make sense of this complex condition? The Migraine Spectrum Everyone experiences migraines uniquely, and it’s not uncommon for someone to encounter multiple types throughout their life. The good news is that by categorizing migraines into different types, doctors can better understand and treat the symptoms. Episodic vs. Chronic: What’s the Difference? Traditionally, episodic migraine…

It’s hard to believe that it took decades of research and false starts before we had a breakthrough in migraine treatment. But then, in 1992, sumatriptan was approved, offering new hope for those suffering from these debilitating headaches. The journey to get there was long and winding, filled with twists and turns. It all started with the discovery of serotonin in the late 1940s. This important neurotransmitter had been identified as a potential player in migraine, but it took years of research to understand its role. Initially, scientists thought that blood vessels in the brain were the culprit behind migraines.…

Hey there, fellow migraine warriors! We’re all too familiar with the unpredictable and often debilitating nature of migraines. But what about those weird, quirky symptoms that signal an attack is brewing? We wanted to know, so we asked our Facebook community: “What are your unusual early migraine signs?” And boy, did you guys deliver! We received over 300 responses from people who’ve lived through the agony (and sometimes comedy) of migraines. And while everyone’s experience is unique, some common themes emerged. Here are the top 10 weird and wonderful symptoms that people reported experiencing before a migraine attack: * The…

I’ve lost six precious months to migraine chaos. The last two have been especially brutal – housebound, unable to work, struggling to even feed myself. It’s like I’m stuck in a Groundhog Day nightmare, reliving the same miserable days over and over. It wasn’t always this way. For a year, my migraines seemed manageable. I felt like I was finally getting a handle on them. But then, BAM! A sudden worsening of symptoms sent me careening back into chaos. The stress is real, folks. As I approach 39, the pressure cooker is reaching a boiling point. We migraine warriors know…

As we explore the world of migraine treatment, it’s fascinating to learn about the origins of medications that have been helping people manage their symptoms for centuries. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a prime example. These powerful painkillers have been around since ancient times, when Greek physician Hippocrates prescribed willow bark extract to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. Fast forward to the 17th century, when scientists discovered salicin, the active ingredient in willow tree bark. It wasn’t until 1899 that Bayer introduced acetylsalicyclic acid (aspirin) to the market, marking the birth of the NSAID class of drugs. Today, NSAIDs are…

Migraines – those debilitating headaches that can strike at any moment and leave you feeling drained and helpless. But what if you could better understand your migraines and take control? By recognizing the 4 phases of migraine, you can make informed decisions about how to treat yourself before or during an attack, and work with your doctor to find the best treatment options. Phase 1: The Prodrome – Your Body’s Warning Sign The prodrome phase is often referred to as the “pre-headache” or “premonitory phase”. It can start up to 48 hours before other phases, and nearly 8 out of…

If you’re one of the millions of people who experience migraines with visual symptoms, you might have heard your doctor mention “ocular migraine.” But what exactly does that term mean? And how can it impact your daily life? In a nutshell, “ocular” refers to any type of migraine that affects your vision. This includes two common types: migraine with aura and retinal migraine. Migraine with aura typically causes simultaneous visual changes in both eyes, while retinal migraine is characterized by changes in just one eye – often with more severe symptoms. Vision problems can be a major hassle, to say…

As a migraine warrior, I’ve learned that understanding what sets off these pesky headaches is key to managing them. For me, hormones play a significant role – I started experiencing migraines during puberty and still get them from time to time. But it’s not just estrogen; there are specific triggers that push me over the edge. One of my earliest migraines was triggered by a sugar overload at a sleepover breakfast (who knew?). Since then, I’ve discovered that lack of sleep is often the culprit, especially when combined with other factors. And let’s be real, who hasn’t had a sweet…

Are you tired of dealing with migraine attacks without knowing where to turn? While prescription medications can be effective in managing migraines, over-the-counter (OTC) options can also provide relief. But before you grab that bottle of pills off the shelf, it’s essential to understand what OTC meds are and how they work. The Safety Net: FDA Approval The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ensures that OTC medications meet certain safety standards before they hit the market. These nonprescription drugs have been around for years, with a good track record of safety and no risk of addiction. That’s why you…

As a migraine warrior, you’re no stranger to the unpredictable twists and turns that come with living with this condition. But did you know that there’s often a subtle warning sign before an attack strikes? It’s called the prodrome phase, and it can creep up on us hours or even days before the big show. For me, the prodrome symptoms are like a gentle fog that rolls in, making it hard to pinpoint exactly when they start. Irritability, excessive yawning, food cravings, light sensitivity, fatigue, muscle stiffness, nausea, and difficulty with reading and speaking – these are just a few…