Unlike a headache, a migraine is a “distinct neurological phenomenon” with four phases. The first phase can occur up to 24 hours before an attack and people can experience mood changes, food cravings and difficulty concentrating
Lorna had her first migraine when she was 17. She was in the car with her sister when her vision went blurry. Twenty minutes later, she was hit with the most intense headache she’s ever experienced. The whole experience, Lorna says, was terrifying.
When Lorna has a migraine, she’s completely incapacitated. She struggles to speak or even move. The only thing she can do is lie down in a quiet, dark room, take pain medication and wait for it to subside. Sometimes, that can take hours, even days. Yet many people often assume she will be able to go about her usual activities. “I think that’s the biggest misconception, how debilitating they are,” Kirsty says. Once the pain passes, brain fog persists. “It takes probably another half a day before I feel totally human.”Unfortunately, Kirsty’s and Lorna’s experiences are relatively common, says Associate Professor Karl Ng from Sydney North Neurology practice.
If you’ve never had a migraine and develop a sudden severe headache, Ng says it’s important to first rule out other major causes, including stroke.Ng believes better education is needed to help sufferers. Lorna couldn’t agree more. Since taking the time to educate her loved ones about migraines, she’s been glad to have more support.