Why are headaches or migraine attacks unpredictable?

 

A comment that a patient recently received, “Oh, you were fine yesterday, so why do you have a migraine today?” highlights the lack of awareness and understanding of how migraines actually work.

Migraines are not like colds and cannot be predicted easily. You can be perfectly fine one minute and then suddenly hit with a migraine attack the next minute. It is not uncommon for people with migraines to have sudden, intense pain, intense nausea, an aura, and vomiting. The previous minute or day has no relation to when a migraine attack might hit, making it unpredictable.

However, some people do have an indication as to when their migraine attacks might occur. Triggers such as alcohol, certain foods, lack of sleep, or activities can increase the likelihood of a migraine attack. But for some people, migraines can hit randomly, making them a surprise attack.

Migraines are known as a silent or invisible illness. People with migraines may look perfectly fine on the outside, but they may be struggling with intense pain, brain fog, and other symptoms on the inside. Migraines can present in many different forms, including silent migraines, vestibular migraines, classic migraines, hemiplegic migraines, and more.

It is crucial to raise awareness about migraines and be mindful that just because someone looks okay, it does not mean that they are okay. June is Headache and Migraine Awareness Month, and it is a great opportunity to spread awareness and support those who suffer from migraines.

Written by Dr Beth (osteopath)