Migraines are notoriously unpredictable and can strike at any time, leaving you feeling helpless and frustrated. But did you know that there are different types of migraines? Today, we’re going to dive into the fascinating world of migraine aura, a phenomenon that can be both alarming and illuminating. The Two Faces of Migraine There are two main types of migraines: those with aura (also known as classic migraines) and those without aura (commonly referred to as common migraines). Some people may experience both types of migraines, while others might only encounter one. Aura is often a warning sign that a…

Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers, influencing everything from our moods to our menstrual cycles. And when it comes to migraines, hormones play a significant role in women’s lives. In fact, more than 8 out of 10 people with chronic migraine are women. So, what’s behind this hormone-migraine connection? It all starts with estrogen, the hormone that can trigger migraines when levels rise and fall. One in four women will experience a migraine at some point during their life. And for many, these episodes are linked to hormonal changes. For example, some women may notice their first migraine around the…

As someone who’s lived with chronic migraine for years, I know that it can feel like you’re constantly playing defense against the constant barrage of pain. It’s as if a hot grill has been attached to your brain, burning away at your sanity. I’ve been there too. In fact, I’ve spent many days lying in bed, feeling like I’m stuck in a never-ending cycle of discomfort and frustration. And let me tell you, it’s not easy to stay motivated when the migraine monster keeps knocking on your door. But here’s the thing: despite the ups and downs, we chronic migraine…

Let’s face it: migraine is a real party pooper. But when nausea and vomiting join the fun, it can feel like you’re stuck in a never-ending nightmare. The good news? There are ways to tame this unwelcome guest, even if medication isn’t your best friend. Medication: A Shot of Relief Prescription antiemetics like ondansetron (Zofran), proclorperazine (Compazine), promethazine (Phenergan), and metoclopramide (Reglan) can be a lifesaver. And the best part? They come in various forms, from oral tablets to suppositories, injections, and patches. Your doctor or infusion clinic may even administer them via IV if you’re feeling too green around…

Are you considering an elimination diet to tackle your migraines? Before diving in, it’s essential to understand what this approach entails. Essentially, an elimination diet is a temporary experiment where you remove certain foods or food chemicals from your diet to identify which ones are triggers. It’s not about making permanent changes; rather, it’s a process of discovery and adaptation. What You Need to Know The first step is to temporarily eliminate certain foods or food chemicals for a short period. Once you’re symptom-free (or experiencing reduced symptoms), you can start reintroducing foods one by one to see if they…

By Kerrie Smyres Last Updated: 3 min read Keeping a migraine diary gives you vital information that can help track down the patterns of your migraine attacks – when and how often they occur and how long they last, what your symptoms are (before, during, and after the most painful phase of the migraine), what your pain levels are, where the pain is located, what meds you take and if they work, what your potential triggers are, and so on. Over the long term, the diary can show you how effective a preventive treatment is for you, whether your abortives…

Ah, the joys of menstruation! For many women, it’s a monthly reminder of their reproductive health. But what about the not-so-fun side effects? You know, the ones that can turn your life into a constant migraine (pun intended). Let’s face it: hormonal fluctuations are no joke. As estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall throughout the menstrual cycle, some women may experience an uptick in headaches – including migraines, tension headaches, and rebound headaches. The culprit? Estrogen, of course! It’s the primary hormone responsible for those pesky premenstrual headaches that can strike at any time: before, during, or after your…

Migraines – those pesky, debilitating headaches that seem to strike out of nowhere. But what if you could gain control over them? The first step is understanding what triggers these attacks in the first place. Imagine a complex puzzle with many pieces: internal and external factors that can set off a migraine chain reaction. Stress, hormone changes, food, weather – the list goes on! For people with migraine disease, exposure to one of these triggers increases the risk of having a migraine. And here’s the catch: what triggers a migraine in you might not trigger one in someone else. It’s…

When we think about quality of life, we often associate it with happiness, comfort, and a sense of fulfillment. But for those living with migraine, the reality is far more complex. Migraine symptoms can linger for days, disrupting daily routines and affecting not just physical well-being but also emotional and social aspects of life. In fact, studies have shown that people with migraine report poorer quality of life even when they’re not experiencing an attack. This phenomenon isn’t limited to women; healthcare workers and those with lower incomes are also more likely to feel the negative impact of migraine on…

For many people living with migraine, the symptoms don’t stop at a pounding headache. A significant number of us also experience nausea, an unpleasant feeling that can be as debilitating as the head pain itself. In fact, studies show that nearly 73% of people with migraine suffer from nausea, while around 29% experience vomiting. Nausea can strike on its own or accompany other symptoms like dizziness and vertigo. It’s a frustrating and often embarrassing side effect that can make daily life challenging. Imagine having to avoid taking medication because the mere thought of drinking it makes you queasy! This is…