Comments on: Understanding the Hemiplegic Migraine

By: Diane T

Diane T — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 15:56:02 +0000

Although my symptoms are not nearly as severe, this is the first time I have heard migraines described that are similar to the ones that I have. I do not lose consciousness or the ability to speak. However, my right side has symptoms that my left side does not. My right eye droops, I have to think and specifically “tell” the right arm and leg how to function. And the pain is much, much worse on the right side of my head/body. I am 45 and have been dealing with them since I was 20. Because most doctors dismissed the one-sided symptoms, I have never looked into it. I have had doctors and others look at me with “that look” when I describe the symptoms so I can’t tell you what it means to me to know that I am not the only one that deals with migrainnes that affect one half of the body that way. The things that I have done to deal with them are medication, massage and pressure points. Recently I have discovered that the P90X stretch dvd works as well or better than a massage. Thanks for the information.

By: Kahy V

Kahy V — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 05:53:35 +0000

No, hemiplegic migraines are not deadly. I’ve had them for over 15 years and actually everyone thinks I am having a stroke – I lose my ability to speak, see (completely void of sight) and am unconscience for upwards of 30 minues. I have the paralysis (although not every migraine and no two are alike – completely unpredictable)usually for 2-4 hours but have suffered with it for a couple of weeks. Honestly, I’ve been on every med and combination of med there is and nothing works for me. I practice the biofeedback (love bio) deep relaxation and am in counseling (Cognative Behavioral Therapy) and it seems to help – why the therapy? Dealing with the disease and the lifestyle it brings is a considerable amount for a person to handle. Look, there’s no simple answer and we are all hopeful that maybe the glutamate neurotransmitter stuff is going to help us, but until then, find a good migraine specialist and someone to help with the pain. It is still difficult for me to embrace the lifestyle, it’s tough but, the fact is that all we can hope to do is treat symptoms, be proactive in helping ourselves through education and resources. Don’t be so harsh on the neurologist, he’s right in a sense, learn what works for you and take care of that. I’m sorry you are in the Hemi Club. None of us want to be a member. Good Luck. There are several good migraine clinics in your area. A good start is the http://www.americanheadachesociety.org.

By: Bostic B.

Bostic B. — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 08:22:58 +0000

Can hemiplegic migraines be deadly? I’m a 24 yr. old male from Memphis, TN., I just found out that I have hemiplegic migraines and I’m quite afraid. My doctor referred me to a neurologist, the neurologist acted as if it was just something I should embrace and learn to live with. He really had no answers…now I’m stumped! Any info, suggestions or ideas would be greatly appreciated.

By: Administrator

Administrator — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 21:05:04 +0000

Since I personally am not a professional I would be reluctant to give any recommendations. An internet search plus follow up could turn up some recommendations. Or if any readers have personal experience with a physician, feel free to add your comments.

By: Heidi Jackson

Heidi Jackson — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 20:32:55 +0000

Can you provide a list of physicians who treat hemiplegic migraines? I am currently seeing a general neurologist and I need someone who specializes in this condition. It doesn’t matter the location.. will fly or drive to wherever the best doctor(s) are to treat HPM.

Thanks,
Heidi