Migraine

Hemiplegic Migraine (HM) is a rare subtype of Migraine with aura (MWA) that is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed. There are two variations of HM:

1. Familial Hemiplegic Migraine (FHM) runs in families.
2. Sporadic Hemiplegic Migraine (SHM) often has Migraine in the family history, but not HM.

The symptom that differentiates HM from other types of Migraine is hemiparesis, which is temporary, one-sided paralysis or motor weakness. Otherwise, HM symptoms are the same as those of Migraine with aura. Most Migraineurs who have HM also have Migraine with or without aura.

Findings of a study performed in the Netherlands suggest that genetic testing could be helpful in properly diagnosing and appropriately treating hemiplegic Migraine....

Continue reading Hemiplegic Migraine - Genetic Testing May Be Helpful.

Still learning the system ... don't give on me! For years I had the migraines with aura, accompanied by slurred speech and drooped eyelid. Originally I was hospitalized because I had all the ominous signs of a stroke. After much testing and a clear MRI, I was diagnosed with migraines and have had the same slurring etc. when things are really bad. Last year I had a migraine with the usual (for me) symptoms, but this time, I felt weak and disoriented. An MRI showed that I had in fact had a stroke caused by the severity of the migraine this time. At first, I was freaked out but now I'm back to taking things "one day at a time" and remaining hopeful. I have a great support system and the BEST neurologist. I'm presently taking Topomax, Plavix, Axert and Fiorinal C for those real "head bangers"

Don't dispair! There are a lot of great medications out there. I was just a little late getting into the game.

I must say that I was quite surprised by AXERT being listed in your medications. With already having had one stroke, your doctor is still okay with this??

TY Terry for this article. It was very interesting! My neuro Dxd me with Hemiplegic migraines. She has never discussed testing for it, course she never really discussed it at all with me except to say that Im not to take triptans or most of the other meds for migraines. She just said if I have a migraine that needs to be treated make sure they check her notes. I actually had to have an urgent care Dr. tell me for sure what type of migraines my Neuro said i had.. Anyway. sorry back on subject.

Who would I go to to ask for the test? Should I have my son tested as well? He has never had a hemiplegic migraine, though he does get bad headaches(unsure if migraines or not yet) Would genetic testing be worth it for either of us? I am going to see a new headache specialest, as my neuro(who is supposed to be the migraine specialest with keiser permenente..) isnt cutting it. Should I ask this new dr about it or my Primary care dr?
Thanks!