When we think of migraines we may initially think of a headache, however, there are multiple types of migraines: chronic migraine sufferers have symptoms for over 50% of the month; hemiplegic migraines present like a stroke, migraine with aura, just to name a few. Migraine is a neurological condition that can also cause multiple other symptoms. Most frequent migraine ‘attacks’ will include a debilitating headache on one side of the head. Migraine can often come with nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light. Migraine can vary in intensity and symptoms can fluctuate over time. A migraine will affect an individual's ability to carry out day to day tasks; it often leaves patients bedbound for hours or even days at a time.

Migraine is not an excuse to get out of work or do something you don’t want to do. Migraine is a serious neurological condition.

Migraines can be triggered more easily in some people due to genetics. Factors such as emotions and environment can all play a role too including:

• Diet & Exercise
• Stress & Anxiety
• Sleep Issues & Loud Noises
• Hormones
• High Air Pressure
• Neck Injury/Back Injury/Pain
• Bright Or Flickering Lights

Despite common belief, migraine sufferers often experience multiple stages to their attacks. When we think of migraines, we automatically think of your typical painful head migraine, yet it is rare we acknowledge the symptoms migraine sufferers experience leading up to this stage - sufferers often experience warning signs prior to a migraine, typically known as the premonitory stage. Warning signs can include physical and mental changes to our bodies like pain and fatigue. Similarly, following your typical ‘attack’, migraine sufferers often refer to the ‘migraine hangover' - the period of feeling generally unwell recovering from the trauma their bodies have recently endured. This is known as the postdrome stage.

Earlier this year I lost my speech for two weeks following a severe migraine attack. This is not an uncommon response to a rare form of migraine called a hemiplegic migraine attack. When experiencing hemiplegic migraines, paramedics in the past have worried I'd been having a stroke.

• Confusion
• Blurred Vision
• Slurred Speech
• Facial Drooping
• Temporary Paralysis
• Neurological Twitches / Pins & Needles
• Intense Stabbing Pain Behind The Eyes

1 - Long Hot Water Bottle
2 - Ear Defenders For Noise Cancellation
3 - Adjusting My Phone Display / Colour Intensity
4 - Blue Light Lenses In My Prescription Glasses & Sunglasses For Light Sensitivity
5 - Lavender Oil & Tiger Balm (White For Headaches & Red On The Neck For Muscle Ache)
6 - Prescription Preventative Medication & Prescription Abortive Medication (Consult Your Doctor For Options)