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hemiplegic migraine

More on hemiplegic migraine

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One area that has benefited from genetic study is in the rare form of migraine known as familial hemiplegic migraine.  As genetic mutations have been discovered, we have gained a better understanding of how this type of migraine works, how to diagnose it and how to treat it.

Familial hemiplegic migraine is a type of migraine with aura, and is one of the more severe types of migraine that can cause stroke-like symptoms – weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, and a pins-and-needles sensation.  There is a genetic (family-familial) connection, related to the calcium channels in the body.  As seems to be the case in many migraine types, the body is getting the wrong neurological signals.  Some of this testing is still in the research stages, and it’s not yet foolproof, but it’s a tremendous advantage to earlier guesswork.

There’s a bit of an update now online of the original December article on headache and hemiplegic migraine, including more specifics and references.  It’s still just an overview – watch for more!

Hemiplegic Migraine

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With all the talk about the connections between migraine and stroke, a certain type of migraine deserves a little attention.  That is, hemiplegic migraine.  Hemiplegic, of course, refers to something that is happening on one side of the body, usually numbness or paralysis (hemi meaning half, plegic meaning unable to move).  A hemiplegic migraine, then, is just like it sounds.  One of the symptoms is numbness or paralysis, and this is usually accompanied by some of the other familiar symptoms – headache, nausea, sensitivity to light, etc.

Research still needs to be done to understand if there is a closer connection between hemiplegic migraine and stroke.  For now, it’s simply important for those with symptoms like this to see a doctor right away.  It’s far too important to risk a self diagnosis or mis-diagnosis.

To clear up some of the mystery, there is now an article here about the symptoms and treatment of hemiplegic migraine.  Check it out today!  Many migraine symptoms can be pretty frightening when they first happen.  A little knowledge can help you on the path to recovery.

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