June is Migraine & Headache Awareness Month

June is Migraine & Headache Awareness Month Migraine is a neurological disease with no cure. Symptoms vary from person to person, but the most common include head pain, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, brain fog and dizziness. Anyone can have migraine, but women are more likely to be affected as 1 in 5 women have reported experiencing migraines vs 1 in 10 men. Migraine interferes with education, career or social activities. Around 15% of those with migraine disease have experienced suicidal ideation. Unfortunately, Migraine is misunderstood and often mis- or undiagnosed.

Common Migraine symptoms:

• Depressed mood or changes in mood

• Increased sensitivity to light, sound or smells

• Yawning, fatigue or difficulty sleeping

• Nausea and/or vomiting

• Moderate or severe head pain

Stages of Migraines:

1. Prodrome - The beginning of a migraine attack, which can start several hours or even days before the headache. Irritability, sensitivity to light/sound, problems concentrating, fatigue & muscle stiffness, difficulty speaking and reading, difficulty sleeping, etc.

2. Aura - Only 20% of people with migraine experience aura. Its effects last between 5-60 minutes and are completely reversible. Visual disturbances, numbness and tingling on part of the body, temporary loss of sight.

3. Headache - The third phase of a migraine attack that can last several hours or up to three days. Throbbing, drilling, burning, icepick in head, vomiting, insomnia, nasal congestion, anxiety, depressed mood, neck stiffness & pain.

4. Postdrome - The final phase of a migraine attack which is often called the “migraine hangover.” Inability to concentrate, fatigue, depressed mood, lack of comprehension.

What to do if you think you are experiencing migraine headaches?

-Keep a headache diary - track your symptoms, triggers, medications, etc.

-Make an appointment with you PCP

-Ask about a neurology referral

Dr. Muhammad Shoaib holds a monthly neurology clinic through the EMH Outpatient Clinic. If you're interested in seeing Dr. Shoaib, contact the EMH Outpatient Department at 660.476.2111 to inquire into how to get an appointment.

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