What is Hemiplegic Migraine?                      

Hemiplegic migraine is a special kind of migraine that goes beyond a usual headache. When someone has a hemiplegic migraine, they might experience not only a severe headache but also temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of their body.

This means that one arm or leg might feel very weak or stop moving for a while. Hemiplegic migraines can be started by certain factors like stress, hormonal changes, or specific foods.

It’s essential for someone experiencing these symptoms to seek medical attention to rule out other serious conditions and to get proper treatment for managing their migraines.

Symptoms of Hemiplegic Migraine

• Individuals with hemiplegic migraines experience intense headaches.
• There is temporary difficulty in moving one arm or leg on a single side of the body.
• Some individuals may have trouble speaking or find it difficult to express themselves during an attack.
• Drooping of the face on one side.
• Trouble speaking or finding words.
• Vision changes, such as seeing flashing lights or blind spots.
• Tingling sensations or numbness in the body.
• Confusion or disorientation.
• Loss of awareness in some cases.

Experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they recur, may indicate hemiplegic migraine.

Causes of Hemiplegic Migraine

Certainly, here are some of the causes of hemiplegic migraine:

• Genetic Factors: Hemiplegic migraines can run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
• Stress.
• Hormonal changes.
• Lack of sleep.
• Specific foods or drinks like chocolate, cheese, or caffeine.

Understanding these causes can help manage and prevent hemiplegic migraines by addressing the causes and seeking appropriate medical guidance.

Treatment of Hemiplegic Migraine

The treatment of hemiplegic migraines involves managing symptoms:

• Medications: Doctors may prescribe medications to relieve pain during an attack and prevent future problems. These can include pain relievers, anti-nausea drugs, and preventive medications to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
• Lifestyle Changes: Making healthy lifestyle changes are important. This includes maintaining regular sleep patterns, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and avoiding known triggers like certain foods or drinks.
• Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.
• Hydration and Balanced Diet: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet.

Dr. Navin Tiwari
Consulting Neurologist