Migraine is More Than Head Pain: The Many Symptoms of Migraine

By Kerrie Smyres

2 min read

Those who have never had a migraine tend to think of it as a raging headache. While sympathetic folks may understand that the pain is awful, even they don't realize that a migraine is not only a headache. While it is certainly a major aspect, pain is one of many symptoms of migraine. The pain is a big deal, but it is only a small part of this neurological disorder that impacts the entire body. Migraine: The Complete Guide, a book published by the American Headache Society in 1994, has the most comprehensive list I've found. Though the book is old and no longer available, this list is invaluable.

Visual and sensory aura

Visual Aura (before the pain begins)

Aura is a bright shape that spreads across the visual field of one eye and appears to block some or all of the vision; can be seen whether the eye is open or closed
Flashes of light and color
Wavy lines
Geometric patterns
Blurred vision
Partial loss of sight

Sensory Aura

Numbness or tingling on the face or upper extremities
A sense that limbs are a distorted shape or size
Heightened sensitivity to light, sound, and smells
Smelling odors that aren’t actually present (like natural gas or something burning)
Skin sensitivity and intolerance of being touched (allodynia)

Motor skills and skin impacted by migraine

Motor

Partial paralysis
Weakness or heaviness in the limbs on one side of the body

Skin

Paleness
Cold, clammy hands and feet
Facial swelling
Goose bumps
Bloodshot eyes
Black circles around eyes
Sweating

Digestive symptoms and fluid changes

Digestive

Food cravings (particularly for carbohydrates, candy and chocolate)
Stomach rumblings
Constipation
Nausea
Vomiting
Intolerance of food odors
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea

Fluid disturbances

Increased thirst
Frequent urination
Bloating/fluid retention

Cognitive and mental symptoms

Cognitive

Mental confusion
Disorientation
Inability to concentrate
Difficulty finding words
Problems understanding spoken or written language

Mental/Personality

Fatigue, lethargy
Mood changes
Irritability
High energy
Depression
Anxiety
Nervousness
Euphoria, feeling of intense well-being

Respiratory and circulatory symptoms

Respiratory

Frequent yawning
Sighing
Hyperventilating
Nasal congestion
Runny nose

Circulatory

Changes in blood chemistry
Changes in blood pressure
Blood vessel dilation
Difficulty regulating temperature
Changes in heart rhythms

Though quite detailed, this list is by no means complete. I can add dizziness and trembling.

What about you? Which of these symptoms do you have? Do you have other symptoms not listed here?

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Migraine.com team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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I also get ringing in my ears, and feel dizzy. Sometimes the walls and things around me appear curved, and every once in a while I feel larger than the things around me - sometimes even houses! If I didn't know I had migraines, I might very well think I was going crazy. 😉
1. hitesh-goenka Member
 I was also diagnosed with migraine associated vertigo. When they both grow firmly, then all hell breaks loose. I have trouble doing all sorts of activities. I get confused like anything. Sometimes, I feel like there's an earthquake. Sometimes, when I'm sitting, I feel like I'm in a small boat in a river. Once it scared me really bad. But after years of experience, I understand it's just my vertigo.
2. dkfields74 Member
 That is called Alice In Wonderland Syndrome
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My pain is so intense it feels like pieces of my brain. are exploding. When it is finally over, my brain feels bruised, every muscle aches, and the fatigue is overwhelming. During the migraine I have to rock, and touch count my fingers (1234, 4321) much like an autistic child, to block out and combat.the sensory overload my body is experiencing.
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Don't judge me till you walk a mile in my shoes or live a day in my life...If there was only a way people could understand what it is like to have Hemiplegic Migraines. This is a wonderful list. Thank you for posting!
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I agree with Sarah. I too have the curved sight and ringing in my ears, feel of freezing, inability to type what I am thinking, added to the list above. This is a very detailed list. However, not complete.
1. not found
 If you have a loved one family or friend, read this so that you might understand. It is a full body experience. We aren't withdrawn. We need our friends, but don't want or feel like asking for companionship during this time. Just knowing someone is close is comforting.
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Thanks for posting, this list has been very helpful as I have experienced many of these symptoms.A migraine truly isn't just a headache.
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I have everyone in respiratory and motor.
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Thank you for this article! A migraine is NOT just a headache! (In lieu of an aura, my head also becomes very tender on the side where a migraine is coming.)
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The part that really gets me is the drained feeling once they are over.
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I have a symptom related to some of the above, but that I've never heard mentioned specifically: a bad taste in my mouth. Also, the pain above one eye radiates down through my jaw and gives me an earache. Like others below, cannot type well. Thanks for the list - I don't want to live life as a victim, but sometimes you just want to be understood.
1. anonymous-123 Member
 It's so nice to find acknowledgement, that others truly understand, have had the same symptoms and "no I'm not a freak" "yes this is real" "it's not mind over matter, just get over it, we all get headaches". To be truly understood, and truly cared about means everything, it's what is a huge comf o rt from groups such as this. This migraine list, is the closest thing, to a complete and true list I have ever seen in my lifetime. My question was, what can I expect next as mine continued to get worse with more and more complications, and I was always told we don't know. Wish I had been shown this list as a very young child.
2. Melissa Arnold Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="anonymous-123" user-id="4591237"/> It's one of those things that you either have to live through or have a close relationship with someone going through it to understand. You know you're not alone here and never will be! As to your rhetorical question -- what's next? -- while we can't say, the reality is that migraine is often evolving. But that doesn't mean it's going to get worse. Some people find they have fewer migraines or respond to different medications over time. So we can always hope for that! Glad you're here, anon. -Melissa, <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
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Sarah, I get that feeling to that I'm larger than the things around me. It usually happens when I go to bed, then I suddenly feel like that, or I close my eyes and everything starts spinning. I also can feel pressure in my head where the pain will be before it starts. Always in the back of my head. I hate it.
1. rangecoach Member
 Jaime, do you also get like a ringing or a tone in your ears?
2. dkfields74 Member
 That's called Allee in wonderland syndrome
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Sure wish this book was still available. What a great article! Thanks so much.
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Hi Kerrie, it's good to meet another who uses indomethacin. There aren't a lot of us out there who can tolerate it I suppose. I'm not sure what I would do without it. Doesn't fix anything, but does keep me sane and fairly functional most of the time.
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Thank you. I can add forgetting words and finding it hard to string a sentence together.
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I have experienced too many of these symptoms and am guilty of wishing a migraine on people just so they would understand what I'm going through.
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I too have ringing ears, and even after the pain is gone, my ears will ring for at least a couple of days. And almost always 3 days of "hangover" feeling.
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excellent Kerrie. Thanks.
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Migraine is not just a headache- it is a brain attack. If you are "lucky" as I was to have the visual aura that is a precursor, you MAY be able to take some medication to ward it off. Otherwise just get ready to crawl off and disappear for a day or so.
1. not found
 AAactually, migraine is a DISEASE with no cure at this time according to my doctor.
2. not found
 Cindy Frankenfield I found out, purely by accident, that mine were hormone related. When my doctor took me OFF hormone replacements due to breast abnormalities, suddenly my migraines stopped. I suffered for YEARS with them!
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I have a lot of those, some I didn't even realize are from the migraine. I have had this one for almost 18 months and it has had "bad" and "worse" days. meaning some days are more tolerable. Like my friend Rosette posted, "don't judge me till you walk a mile in my shoes or live a day in my life." Like I said some days I feel like I can do what ever I want.... After all I can't stop living so when my pain level is down from a 10 plus, to a 7 I try to do as many things as I can just to feel some what normal.
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I have ocular migraines--it may feel like something is squeezing my ocular nerves like crazy or other times it feels like a red hot poker is stabbing the backs of my eyes. My headaches are usually on both sides but sometimes just in 1 eye. Per my husband, my speech totally changes when I have a migraine--the pitch is lower and I speak more slowly. Thank you for the article--it's wonderful!
1. not found
 did you have migraines as a child?
2. not found
 no, Barb, they started in my early 30's...thank heavens that at least I didn't have them then, huh 😀
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I have at least twenty of these symptoms. Many of them I have on a daily basis. Now that I've found this site, and this list, maybe I can better explain what I'm going through to my family and friends 😀 May your day be migraine free!
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My daughter has had some of theses symptoms and some other ones. The worst thing was this week is that they doctors were trying to say that she was making this up just to get out of school and stay home. I have a 13 year old daughter suffering from a bad Migranin this week who would rather be at school than home. After reading this I now know that the symptoms are all caused from the Miraine and not a possible illness also.
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I have at least one from evrything that was listed and it is real hard to live when a migraine comes on the only thing I don't get is the araua.
1. rangecoach Member
 For the longest time I wasn't sure I got an actual aura either, and from what I have found a lot of people actually don't get one, I thought that me getting overwhelmed by light was my only warning sign or the throbbing ice pick above my eye for a quick onset. But with my job I have been wearing sunglasses, because of the florescent lighting and staring at a computer screen for 8 hours a day, I have been able to notice that I get blurry vision before the light sensitivity and the sensation I was on a boat. Basically like Kerrie I have been able to discover more aspects of my symptoms because I didn't have to focus just one one.
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You posted this in Jan.2012. Where are you able to find Midrin? Walgreens says it's no longer on the market. My doc's office has called pharmacy's only to be told the same thing. Right now, to get rid of one ****doc DID NOT RECOMMEND THIS*** I drink a Dr. Pepper & take 2 Aleve about 2 hours later it lets up. Takes a lot longer, but better than the alternative! I'm on 100mg of Topamax twice daily for prevention, so I don't have many break-thru headaches.
1. rangecoach Member
 I like the Dr. Pepper part! I need a doctor that recommends me to drink it, that would be a doctor even my stubborn side would listen to.
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As a doctor explained it during a seminar I attended many years ago, "Migraine is an incurable, disease Incurable, yes, but it can be CONTROLLED, if we watch what we eat, drink and how we exercise." He's correct, our behavior as with everything else we do, depends on us, too. I've had them since I was 4 years old and we've come a l-o-n-g way! With all the symptoms some of you describe, I would ask to be tested for fibromyalgia, too. Some of those symptoms seem like "crossover" symptoms to me, just a thought.
1. cindyd Member
 I don't think mine are controlled. I think that I attempt to manage them. If they were controllable, we wouldn't all be on her with such atrange symptoms. I truly don't think people that do not have them can ever completely understand what we go through.
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I always thought the yawning was strange, but I yawn lots before any other noticeable symptoms. It's my watch out.
1. not found
 Terry and Keenan's migraines are completely different. And Terry has 4 or 5 different migraines (jaw, shoulder, temple...etc.). Such a weird thing! I'll ask them about the yawning thing. (Now I need to yawn...)
sweetbeni1 Member
I also get teary eyes with the yawning that is when I know it is time to take my medicine. A lot of these symptoms aren't mentioned by doctors. I hate the fact that I have to get up and urinate during a migraine attack, that has to be the worse because you have to move. Thanks for listing them all, I sometimes forget how it effects every system in the body.
1. rangecoach Member
 Getting up has to be the worst part for me as well. I get so weak and dizzy that I end up crawling to the bathroom, and I hate to admit as a guy sitting down to urinate because I can't stand is very weird LOL.
elizabethglenn Member
I must have over 20 of the symptoms. I am always nauseated when my attack first starts. I also have hemi facial spasms. The right side of my face will draw. It usually starts with my eye. It will totally close. My family can tell when I'm in pain. Now, it also goes down my face to my mouth. It looks like Bell's Palsey, which was the 1st diagnosis many years ago! Prayers go out to all on here! It is so miserable to have this disease!
ocprgmr Member
I have had almost 30 of the above symptoms. Thank you, so much, for posting this list! This is the first time that I've see the facial swelling mentioned as one of the symptoms. That has been one of my symptoms that confused the heck out of all of my doctors (other than my current neurologist who said it "might" be connected). If I'm lucky, only the tissue around my eyes swell. If I'm not,then my entire face and neck area swells up and it looks like I've put on about 50 lbs; I end up with a double or triple chin, and no defined jawline. The migraines certainly mess with my diabetes management -- especially the food cravings.
janiceclemens Member
I have experienced at least 75% of the list of symptoms above. I have been to 2 neuro's and I have finally just gone back to my PCP. Tired of being told it's just a headache and to get over it. When people ask how I am, my answer is now, fine thank you, because no one thinks it is more than a head ache. I have goven up on the medical profession for a cure or even for help and am trying to use as many holistic and herbal remedies as I can to see if I can help myself since no one wants to believe it more than "just a headache" even thought this week I had to leave work early on tuesday and miss wednesday due to a severe migraine with the auram tunnel vision, and vomiting.
1. ter-i Member
 What somewhat helps is vomiting on people who tell you it it "just a headache" 😀
2. Sandy S Member
 I wish this did work . Most people just think you are drunk then x
dandy7 Member
My experience has involved most of these symptoms. concentration being my biggest problem. one not mentioned is upsidedown vision. sometimes when the pain is just to demanding my vision has inverted and I see everything upsidedown for a few moments. By watching what I eat I am controlling the pain but it never leaves, one doctor said it's all in my head-and I couldn't agree more. No medication has ever helped.
stormy Member
Although I'm new to this amazing site, unfortunately I'm not new to migraines. I'm 46 now & have been having migraines since my late teens. In my teens I would know a migraine was upon me by having flaming red, hot to the touch cheeks & ears. However, with a couple OTC pills, the symptoms would go away. I didn't necessarily have horrid head pain, but loss of focus, concentration & a sensation of a pressure in my head. I have this impression, I'd have to say, that the migraines were a really bright white light. I have an extremely high pain tolerance (gave birth to my 1st child in 1hr 7mins with no pain meds whatsoever!) Now my migraines are much more to the point! I still get flaming red cheeks, plus incredible migraine pain, weakness, nausea, vomiting, extreme sensitivity to light, sound, smells, spots & squiggly lines before my eyes, irritability, soaking sweats, exhaustion, but unfortunately so far I am unable to take preventative meds because I'm allergic, immediate relief meds don't work & I'm unable to take the OTC meds because of the intense reactions to the cafiene. The shaking, jitteriness, jumpiness, etc are almost as unbearable as the migraines! So, all I'm left with is, as far as I know of, is a cloth bag filled with frozen corn on my head, darkness, soundless, cool room. My husband is gracious enough to sneak on tip toes into our room & check & switch out the corn bag for a new colder one & I require many hours of sleep. Oddly enough, I've noticed over the years that from a day to just hours before a NASTY migraine, I feel fantastic, tons of energy, get lots of things accomplished....then WHAM!! I'm down for the count. After browsing this site, I noted quite a few comments regarding foods to avoid, anyone have any good links so I can check the foods list to see if I can do any better with my diet? Thanks all. Much love, peace & relief to you all!
1. jeannette330 Member
 Read Heal your Headache by David Buchholtz. The gold standard! <a href='https://www.amazon.com/Heal-Your-Headache-David-Buchholz/dp/0761125663#productDescription_secondary_view_div_1496592609120' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://www.amazon.com/Heal-Your-Headache-David-Buchholz/dp/0761125663#productDescription_secondary_view_div_1496592609120</a>
roseburg Member
I'm a newbie. My experiences with migraines were always a headache that arriv d a day or two before my periods. At perimenopause I began having dizzy spells and severe neck tension and bouts of brain fog. These spells would often be precursor by a weird fuzziness in my vision and an odd kind of "confused" sensation...like my brain wasn't working correctly. Yeah. My neurologist told me it's very common during menopause to have migraines that don't always produce the headache, but present like mine. Now I'm fully menopausal, and I've been having spells of full migraine head pain, and the postdrone of weariness, fogginess and wiped out feeling. Today I'm slowly recovering from a headache which peaked (I hope) yesterday. What I've experienced this time is feeling crummy and foggy and still head achey, plus muscle and joint achiness. Is that a common postdrome symptom? Thanks--
1. Meaghan Coneys Moderator
 Hi Andrea, Thank you for your post. We are glad you found our community here at Migraine.com! I realize you posted this a couple days ago, so I do hope you have moved through your migraine attack and are feeling better. Regarding postdrome symptoms, I feel you may find this article helpful - <a href='https://migraine.com/migraine-basics/migraine-phases' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/migraine-basics/migraine-phases/</a>. It specifically identifies the symptoms you experience during the postdrome phase (phase 4), relating it to experiencing a "hangover". You can also click on the specific symptoms and it will bring you to a new page that further discusses those symptoms. If you have any additional questions please do not hesitate to reach out. We love hearing from you. Wishing you all the best. Warmly, Meaghan (Migraine.com Team)
shabbychicer Member
This list is enlightening for me. I never knew why I had a swollen eye or cold feet and hands. Ive had migraines since I was six but not diagnosed till my 30's when my pcp finally figured out that my sinus infections were actually migraines. I personally have had no luck with neurologists but my pcp has me on triptan pill and sumatriptan injections. Ive tried all the preventatives with no luck. I get most of the listed symptoms unfortunately. As for other symptoms I have...I get bad kanker sores in my mouth right before onset. Its hard for me to decide what symptom is my fibro, nerve damage from cancer or migraine. This disease is just so debilitating and misunderstood.
sadie1721 Member
Besides nausea and feeling like my head is going to explode, I also get very sensitive to sound (this is also a trigger for me but when I have a migraine, I can't tolerate any noise at all), sensitive to strong smells. I also, can't stop yawning (I thought this was just something strange my body does until I read it on this website), I start sweating and my face gets flushed, can't deal with thinking or listening to anyone or anything. My sinuses get plugged up and my nose runs. If the migraine gets stronger, I have to go to the bathroom. I agree with the fact more attention need to be brought to how serious a migraine can be. I was recently in the hospital for something unrelated and the staff didn't realize that all my triggers happen at once (no sleep, off schedule with my meds, not eating). It wasn't until I had a migraines two nights in a row , that they realize that it was possible.
rebeccacheshire Member
I have severe basilar migraine and get partial paralysis down the right hand side of my face and my right arm. My right hand usually goes into what I call 'the claw' and I can't move it. I get pins and needles. I stammer and stutter really badly and if I don't get to bed quickly I can black out. I don't really know what happens and my consultant refuses to believe I black out, he says I probably go to sleep but if standing i fall to the floor like I'm fainting or passing out. I am lucky I haven't hurt myself doing this, other than cuts and bruises i get from the falls. This symptom is the one I struggle with the most as it causes great anxiety and stress. To such a point I have had to give up work. Does anyone else suffer these symptoms and can you offer any advice?
1. kenfree Member
 Hi Rebecca, Sounds like you and I have a match of sorts. In the past four years I have had two "TIA's," as the professionals choose to call them, where I lose complete motor control, but do not quite pass out. Both instances occurred first thing in the morning. In the more recent episode, I had profound aura during the entire episode, but definitely did not lose consciousness, though I was unable to control my thinking. When I began recovering after a few minutes of collapsing, my left arm was numb, and I had no control over my left hand. The pins and needles there were severe. My neurologist thinks that my hypotension triggers the migraine, but I'm not convinced.
Member
I am new to this site. I do not know how to ask about migraine and stomach cramps. Anybody here know or have guidance to learn about "abdominal migraines" ? Have some of the other symptoms mentioned . Headaches are currently helped with Excedrin most times. Nothing helps with abdominal pain . Several years, multiple Drs . Hoping for guidance through this site
1. kenfree Member
 Hi Yohanna, You have my sympathy. Abdominal migraines were my "introductory course" to migraine...I experienced them as a young adolescent, and can still recall them vividly...usually occurred around bedtime, a feeling of overwhelming stress without a known cause. I'd like to say I outgrew them, but truth is, I just "progressed" to other types of migraine which, believe it or not, were far worse (vertiginous migraine). I was reminded of my adolescent migraines recently when I contracted the shingles in the abdominal area...the pain was more acute, though, and while "nerve" pain, was not quite the same variety as the migraine. Hope you find some good info and will share if you do...
meredithmontgomery Member
I've recently discovered the articles and comments section of this website and rejoice. It's great to find so many different look ups; that others have a crazy variety of symptoms that are part of Migraines. After just a couple of hours over a few days, I realize there are many like me. It took 62 years for me to get diagnosed! ( a young DO, 1st in her class, listened well, only 2 visits and she put together what numerous MD's a few DO's in 2 states never figured out.And I have about 95% of classic symptoms, along with some unusual ones!
meredithmontgomery Member
I've recently discovered the articles and comments section of this website and rejoice. It's great to find so many different look ups; that others have a crazy variety of symptoms that are part of Migraines. After just a couple of hours over a few days, I realize there are many like me. It took 62 years for me to get diagnosed! ( a young DO, 1st in her class, listened well, only 2 visits and she put together what numerous MD's a few DO's in 2 states never figured out.And I have about 95% of classic symptoms, along with some unusual ones! Among my apparently unusal combination of symptoms are: from weather related/barometric pressure trigger (drops are worse) by neck twists; when x-rayed it looks like I was hung. Cervical vertabra 1 goes right, C-2 goes left. Called Hangman's injury on some websites. Excruciatingly painful.Referral pain, and subluxations travel down spine. This leads to ear pain in left ear, if chiropractic adjustments not received within 24-26 hrs. Ear infection develops, also sinus infections. Left unadjusted I then get sore throat, turns into strep throat. Bronchitis follows. Pneumonia comes neck. All from a migraine. edited comment with additional material added
1. Joanna Bodner Community Admin
 Hi Meredith! Yay!!!! I am so happy to read you discovered how to connect further with members in our <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> community! If you are active on Facebook, please feel free to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MigraineDotCom/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">visit our page</a> where the conversation is always very active. Additionally, you can visit our forums section - <a href='https://migraine.com/forums' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/forums/</a>. It's wonderful to read that finally after SO MANY years that it took a fresh, young & attentive DO to get to the bottom & provide you with a proper diagnosis. You certainly are contenting with many complicated symptoms. Thanks for taking the time to comment & we hope to read more more from you in the future. Please always feel free to reach out! Take care, Joanna (Migraine.com Team)
madskillz Member
God is good i been dealing with a chronic migraine that has not gone away 4 a sec since 10/2/2011 it may b less painful but not gone & these dr keep acting like i been makin this up all this time. I did have headaches alot when i was younger but im the kind of person that trys to push thru the pain and as a mom of 2 boys (they'll be 22 & 14 this yr) i couldnt just lay in bed cuz that was my oldest son senior yr i had to get him ready 4 college and everything (we all know as parents there is no such thing as sick days) So now i am on my 7th neurologist now smh prayin they finally find wats causing this cuz i have like 98% of all these symptoms and its crazy cuz they told me it wasnt genetics but my mom had them, my youngest son been getting them since he was 5 but i just thought it was regular headaches. But this dr is a headache specialist so he had info at his office that told me it is genetic and all those problems i didnt make up in my head...so im not crazy
poe15 Member
Of all the migraine symptoms from which I suffer, I find the headache the easiest to deal with. It's the other symptoms that have made migraines so challenging for me - especially the brain fog and language issues (I'm an English teacher!). There's nothing quite like losing one's ability to speak intelligibly or understand what others are saying in front of a classroom! Luckily, my students tend to be very understanding (more understanding than most of my colleagues). Depression, anxiety, and irritability have also made life difficult, though I think I might finally have found an anti-depressant that works to mitigate both the migraine and my mood changes. Strangely enough, though, the increased sensitivity to light and sound has changed my life the most. And I would be curious to know if others have experienced the following? I had migraines when I was younger (teens and early twenties), which went away at some point, but returned with peri-menopause (or a particularly stressful period in my life - hard to know the cause). Initially, while I was having a migraine (or getting one), I would experience increased sensitivity to external stimuli. But after a few years of this, I am now pretty much always sensitive to light, sounds, odors, etc. I no longer socialize because I can't stand the buzz of voices; cities can be very difficult; I can't be out in the sun without big hat and sunglasses (and even then it's a challenge). I rarely play music at home. Does migraine permanently alter one's brain chemistry?
pambitterman Member
Sore achy muscles, particularly around the neck and shoulders! Could be a response to tightening up against the pain....
1. decor8er Member
 <inline-mention username="pambitterman" user-id="3815822"/> I have this as a symptom. It is less severe since I have been receiving Botox injections, as are my migraines. I have gone from every day to normally six a month, although they do ramp up right before my next set of injections is due. (This option is only available if you have 15 days or more migraines lasting more than four hours.) I also go to physical therapy, get acupuncture, and see a chiropractor. (I am blessed, I have excellent healthcare coverage.) The injections prevent you from tightening some of the smaller muscles which is part of how they work. (This is according to the dentist I worked for.) Talk to your doctor about this possibility if you qualify for this treatment, it has made a huge difference in my life. If your insurance doesn't cover it there are frequently discount options available. Good luck.
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="decor8er" user-id="3710096"/> Yes- this is great guidance- thanks so much for providing it. Botox does have a savings program- a reimbursement program for those who don't have sufficient insurance coverage (it doesn't apply for those who are on medicare)- but if you look up "botox savings program" online you will find it. Like you, I've found great relief with botox. I will also share with you that I also found a significant uptick in attacks close to the time my injections were scheduled so my doctor and I worked together to change the frequency of my injections to every 10 weeks instead of every 12. It really helps. Just a thought. Thanks again for sharing! Warmly- Holly (migraine.com team)
scarby Member
Every single one on the cognitive list, plus thinking I hear someone talking, very faintly. As far as visual, the biggest for me is flashes of light, especially when my eyes are closed. The more "violent" the explosion of light then worse the pain will be. Even my rescue meds won't help much. I found it rather amusing that irritability was listed twice. I have never experienced the high energy with my migraines. Certainly wish that I would as I might could accomplish something while at home with a migraine, like today. (Storms moving through the area, one of my biggest triggers). Thank you for sharing this list! I share such things with my husband and he also appreciates it. So happy I found this community!
karenrudd Member
I would add extreme overstimulation of my skin...my clothes hurt, it hurts to brush my hair and anything rubbing on any part of me almost burns.
aks868 Member
Oh my gosh--do I have so many of those symptoms--one of the weird ones is thinking I smell cigarette smoke. The visual disturbances are extremely annoying, but the worst is the word retrieval and mental fogginess and mood symptoms. The pain is awful, but somewhat easier to deal with because it feels "real" while the other symptoms are so amorphous and sometimes hard to catch--I mean everyone has good and bad days, so sometimes I don't know when I am having a migraine and when I am just not having a good day. Sometimes I also feel like my cheeks are numb. Finally, my face looks totally different when I am getting a a migraine or when I have one--I get the puffy eyes, and dark rings, and one of my eyes loses some color. Thank you for the list--it is validating to not think one is imagining everything!
1. nell-burns Member
 Yes ringing in my ears constantly. Forgot so much to put in including poor balance and coordination...have vertigo and dizziness and have fallen so many times. I can feel myself starting to go over backwards or forward and have to grab something. Yes i smell cigarettes and other smells. They come and go. I hear a radio playing with people talking but I can't understand what they are saying. Episodes of this. See things moving just out of sight but constantly turning my head to catch a glimpse. These things sounds like I am absolutely crazy. Have seen 3 Neurologists, 3 Ent's, No help.
dinamay Member
I was diagnosed with migraines after a long trek through various medical offices including a psychiatric (who said, no, it's not all in my head). I'd had "monster" headaches since at least 7th grade and I'd learned there was no use taking aspirin or Tylenol or Motrin or....I was diagnosed after several long-lasting severe migraines for which I was hospitalized. My symptoms made the doctors think I was having a stroke. But each time I got better spontaneously. Luckily, I was able to see a migraine specialist who developed a treatment plan and eventually I got better. As for symptoms, I would add difficulty speaking as well as understanding and sometimes even aphasia (inability to,speak at all). And like a previous commenter, on my affected side my hand takes on the "claw" pose and refuses to listen to my commands. Another comment referred to abdominal migraines, which afflict one of my sisters (who also went through that medical trek). From what she describes, it's a lot like what I have but in reverse. For me the torture is mostly in my head and neck with other symptoms in my abdomen and limbs while my sister's are mostly in her abdomen with others randomly attacking elsewhere. She has to be more careful about what she eats than I do and doesn't take any of the triptans. One of the oddest symptoms that she and I share is the opposite of euphoria (feeling super good) -- it's a vague creeping sense of doom, feeling that there is something terribly horribly wrong, like the world is coming to an end. Then when the pain starts, we can relax. No, the world is not about to end, it's another migraine. Finally, thank you all for being there.
1. egret56181 Member
 Holy cow! I had that happen.this morning for the first time: the total sense of doom and I thought I was having an anxiety attack and sat down to do breathing exercises. Then, about 10 minutes later the pain started. It’s like our nervous system figured it out before we do.
kenfree Member
Kerrie, Thanks for this useful list. I do think that, yes, dizziness, in particular VERTIGO, should be included among the symptoms. Ken
fourposies Member
My ears feel as though I'm under water and my nose bone gets really pressured as though I have heavy glasses sitting on it. Weird!
cindyd Member
I work in a prison and one day I was walking through the prison and my coworkers were saying hello to me and I recognized their faces but could not remember their names.
nikkig127 Member
I have aura, sensory, cognitive and motor symptoms and most recently, I had a 4 week dizzy spell. I saw an ENT who did all kinds of tests for vertigo and ear pressure, etc...while I do have some vestibular disturbanceS, they said it wasn’t enough to cause the amount of dizziness I was feeling. So I also switched my birth control, something my neurologist and gynecologist have been trying to get me to do for a couple of years, that didn’t change the dizziness. Final verdict, it was a month long type of migraine with no pain or other symptoms - just extreme dizziness and nausea. I also have migraines with aura that don’t have pain associated. I just see a bright, glowing/twinkling > shape in my right eye. I can’t see around the > or past it, so I have to look with my other eye because the light in my right eye obstructs my view. There’s no pain involved at first, but the constant eye strain eventually causes a headache. Then there’s the other no pain kind, where the right side of my body goes numb, I can’t hear out of my right ear, can’t see out of my right eye at all and head-to-toe, I can’t feel anhtbing on the right side. No pain though. Of course they thought it was a stroke the first time this happened. I was rushed to the ER, put through all the tests, not a stroke. Then a series of other tests for several months after. Just a migraine. All of those..then, I have the normal kind with pain. I’ve had painful migraines since I was a kid. The others have been popping up randomly over the past 10-15 years. Who knew there were so many different kinds of migraines??
jackiers Member
Lately I have the feeling similar to having an eye lash in my eye. I know I don't, but it leads to a migraine. That is one of many symptoms. I'm 56 and I started having migraines more frequently about 10 years ago with my monthly cycle. My cycle has stopped, but the headaches seem to be around the same time, so I'm guessing they are hormonal. Another thing that sets me off is turkey. I have been mostly pescatarian for over 40 years, but about 15 years ago I started eating turkey and regret it. I have had digestive problems for about 20 years. I know I have a very large appendix (diverticulosis and an ischemic bowel) and I have been having a lot of symptoms that someone with appendicitis would have.....can this just be from the migraines....I have been having migraines for weeks. They usually don't last this long. Could the appendices cause migraines???
tanya1969 Member
My migraine were debilitating, until I was tested and treated for Lyme disease.. I still occasionally get them, but they are not as severe.
1. Sandy S Member
 H Tanya , Thank you for you comment . You have really spiked my interest in this. I was thinking that maybe more people have been bitten and not known maybe than we know and if people who had migraines and ME were checked for Lymes as well it may help some people or maybe what you have been given to treat your Lymes may be a possible treatment for migraine . I hope that they find a cure for you x
willowbunny Member
Thought it my be of interest to list the lovely effects a migraine is causing me. Visual Aura (before the pain begins) blurred vision partial loss of sight Sensory numbness or tingling on the face or upper extremities heightened sensitivity to light, sound, and smells smelling odors that aren’t actually present (like natural gas or something burning) skin sensitivity and intolerance of being touched (allodynia) Motor partial paralysis weakness or heaviness in the limbs on one side of the body Cognitive inability to concentrate Digestive food cravings (particularly for carbohydrates, candy and chocolate) stomach rumblings constipation Fluid disturbances increased thirst frequent urination bloating/fluid retention Mental/Personality fatigue, lethargy mood changes irritability depression anxiety nervousness Digestive nausea intolerance of food odors loss of appetite diarrhea Skin paleness cold, clammy hands and feet facial swelling goose bumps bloodshot eyes black circles around eyes sweating Respiratory frequent yawning nasal congestion runny nose Circulatory changes in blood pressure difficulty regulating temperature changes in heart rhythms
kayeff Member
Doesthis book go into detail about how migraine causes these symptoms? I would love to know. Some of my symptoms aren't acknowledged widely as migraine symptoms but here they are actually mentioned!!
1. Kerrie Smyres Moderator & Contributor
 Great question, Kayeff. The book doesn't, likely because the science of migraine was so sparse at the time that they didn't know. Do you mind sharing which symptoms? I can check if there's more current research that looks at those symptoms. I'm not sure if I'll be able to sleuth it out, but I'd like to try. Take care, Kerrie
meemaless Member
Barometric pressure changes bring on headaches. In addition to the listed symptoms I also have ringing in my ears, earaches and ear drainage.
maryanne59 Member
Has anyone ever had marked gait disturbance and poor balance and coordination with their migraine?
1. poetdoll Member
 <inline-mention username="maryanne59" user-id="3838680"/> I get this post migraine for sometimes up to two days after. I have to be careful when I'm at work - aka hide it.
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="poetdoll" user-id="3719590"/> How interesting. And yes- many people speak of the postdrome period (that window of time that follows the active migraine attack) as feeling hungover and off balance. Very tricky to manage- especially in public. Thank you for sharing. Warmly - Holly (team member)
medicmom18 Member
I've never heard anyone mention this, but at the beginning of a migraine and through the course of it I will have an auditory hallucination that takes the form of a line or a few bars of a piece of music, or a word that repeats in my head over and over. I'm curious if anyone else has ever experienced this
1. egret56181 Member
 Yes! I get a very sing-songy repetition of music, sometimes sung and sometimes instrumental. It’s very unnerving and I have to work to push it away.
2. hitesh-goenka Member
 I have written 150+ songs thanks to my migraine. My friends think I'm gifted or talented. LOL!
mylifematters Member
Vertigo, earache, jaw aches
whisper292 Member
My ongoing symptoms include hallucinating odors, increased thirst, frequent urination, dizziness, sighing, earaches, neck pain, and nightmares. I'm curious to know of anyone has the unusual symptoms when pain doesn't occur. I have these symptoms -all the time-, even when I don't seem to be having a migraine.
1. poetdoll Member
 <inline-mention username="whisper292" user-id="3918634"/> so glad you said this! I have been diagnosed with allodynia (a form of fibromyalgia). Do some research on it and discuss with your dr. Yes, I realize my response is years later...)
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="poetdoll" user-id="3719590"/> We appreciate your chiming in (it's never too late to do so!). And for those reading along who would like to learn more about allodynia- we have a lot of resources on this topic: <a href='https://migraine.com/search?s=allodynia' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/search?s=allodynia</a>. Warmly - Holly (team member)
curtiecarol Member
I was recently hospitalized as psychotic. I had delusions, hallucinations, paranoia, and super-acute (painful) hearing. I had mild headaches throughout this time. I am now wondering how much migraine contributed to all these symptoms, given that I have no history of mental illness.
shadow1234 Member
Hi Curtie Carol, thank you for posting. I too am having more migraine problems as I get older. At 55 and beginning menopause, I can't tell what's what anymore. This weekend, I'm having hot episodes ( I don't call them flashes because they last hours) with anxiety, headache, dizziness and trouble thinking straight. It can be downright scary.
nell-burns Member
I am 71. I've been having headaches since I was a child. Remembering playing on the playground in 1st grade and each step I took I felt my head was going to split. The sun would bring mine on. Over the years my headaches have gone from every day in the summer time....usually June thru Sept. Easing up in fall and winter. I would have phases with none. The intense headaches were what I remember and feeling so sleepy all the time. I was diagnosed with sinus problems when I was 13. Then later teens and 20's Tension headaches, sinus and migraine. With my 1st pregnancy no headaches. Felt better than I had ever felt in my life. 2 yrs later 2nd pregnancy I was with constant headaches and tension and sinus. Change of life bad again. Then they were less painful. Over the years the barometric pressure would cause me to get headaches. Most of the time they would cease after it started raining for a while. In the last 10 years so many different symptoms that have made my quality of life a "drag." Feel like I am never well. Last year my dr. finally put me on propranol(sp) and I went from Dec. to April with 0 headaches. Then June came and the dull headaches that make you sleepy started just like every summer. Drainage down throat, stuffiness in nose and sinuses, ears feeling full, gums hurting, body aching, fatigue,never enough sleep or too much sleep, tension headaches and neck and head sore to touch. These symptoms have been all thru the yrs. but are worse now because I have other health issues. Have had all of cognitive issues, but they have been going on since 40's...very scary, All mental/personality issues as listed. Nausea, constipation, no appetite. All respiratory
lisamedlin77 Member
i have vestibular migraines, and have multiple symptoms. has anyone experienced tingling run thru their tongue? i have this feeling sometimes. am i the only one?
1. Joanna Bodner Community Admin
 Hi there @lisamedlin77, As you likely know migraine can sure present itself in many odd ways & strange symptoms. Some do share experiencing tingling on their tongue. You can read more about this here. <a href='https://migraine.com/faqs/can-migraines-cause-numbness-tingling-or-weakness' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/faqs/can-migraines-cause-numbness-tingling-or-weakness/</a> As always, if this is a new or worsening symptom be sure to discuss with your doctor. 
2. doozie Member
 lisamedlin77, I had never had that sensation in over 30 years of dealing with migraine. However, a few months ago I was eating dinner at a restaurant with my family and suddenly had the same sensation. I felt OK at the time, so I just monitored myself for other symptoms like heart attack or stroke. The very next day I had a migraine. Not sure if the two are related, but I read your post with interest.
Sandy S Member
My sense of smell is so intense all the time now I am going through menopause and also I went of smoking 20 months ago and now my sense of smell is so acute it sets off my migraine all the time .Mainly the chemicals in cleaners and especially washing powder and it does not help people being nose blind and believing the hype that unless there is a cloud of perfume eminating from around you. Your clothes are not clean. My local chemist had a little machine type vaping machine the other day and I complained about it and all they said was its only water but the smell was exactly like when people vape and that hurts my head. When I was in there a mother and her son about 7 years of age came in and she told him to keep away from it as she did not want to end up hours in casualty so obviously affected him as well. So they do not understand either. And being a chemist I was very surprised that they did not consider their customers ailments etc .Sorry bit of off subject there .
1. poetdoll Member
 <inline-mention username="Sandy S" user-id="3877615"/> I can tell if people smoke from about 5 feet away. I once commented to someone about their smoking. They were so ashamed and admitted they were trying to quit! I felt awful but I couldn't stand close to them bc of the smell.
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="poetdoll" user-id="3719590"/> Oh yes! I often refer to people with migraines as having superpowers because of how refined our senses are! We can smell around corners- - perhaps one of us out there has helped to smell smoke and put out a fire and saved some lives a time or two. Sensitivity to smells is a major part of migraine for many- both a symptom AND a trigger: <a href='https://migraine.com/migraine-symptoms/sensitivity-to-smells' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/migraine-symptoms/sensitivity-to-smells</a>. Thanks for sharing! Warmly - Holly (team member)
deedeevee1 Member
What about fever?? It seems lately everytime I'm bedridden with pain, my body temprature is very high. Like I have a fever. Tho I feel very cold.
1. hitesh-goenka Member
 Even I have feverish sensations multiple times a month. Earlier, I used to pop a tablet for fever but now medications don't have a space in my life. 😀
2. odduckling Member
 If I don’t take medicine right away, I always have a crazy fever. I shake pretty violently and feel freezing, but I’m burning up. It’s awful! You can’t function when one hits- the whole world stops.
kelly-banks Member
Sad this is a long list and I’ve had most of these as well as crazy dizziness and slurred speech! Oh the joys of neurological issues!
weeone Member
I also have slurred speech and cognitive changes to the point that I’ve been accused of being “high” or on something and that’s what’s causing problems.
1. hitesh-goenka Member
 Wow! Even my speech or a few words get slurred from time to time. I didn't know it was due to migraine.
2. weeone Member
 Don’t always have that problem but I read an article that listed other physical symptoms other than pain
hitesh-goenka Member
I had so many symptoms stated here. My childhood went in visiting several doctors for different symptoms. They ran all sorts of needless tests. They gave me medicines to poison my system. Nothing was required. Finally, around the age of 24, an ENT doctor told me I have migraine. Still, he gave me medicines that never helped. Then, a doctor of neurology told me to continue with the same medicines. I never got any relief or even a temporary solution from any medicines. So, I stopped taking medicines since 3 years. Now, I feel way better. No more poisons in my body.
kallain Member
I can't tell you what a relief it is to find this article. I am almost 40, and throughout my adult life, I have had a handful of migraine episodes, most of which would last for several days. They would not include head pain (or at least that was never the main symptom), but they would include so many of the above listed sensory/visual symptoms. They were always such bizarre experiences, and I seriously questioned my sanity because it felt like my brain couldn't make sense of any of the incoming sensory information. Honestly, if someone said they slipped me some LSD that would have made total sense. Finally, after my most recent episode, I went to the doctor who immediately said that sounds like an aura migraine. At the time I thought he was brushing me off, but I'm so grateful to him because it lead me here, and it's helped lift the anxiety of not knowing what was happening. I'm posting this here mostly in case there's someone else out there who has had a similar experience. Migraines are a vast and strange affliction, and in my case, they mostly do not include head pain, which has caused so much additional confusion.
1. odduckling Member
 I had my first migraine at 30, and I thought I was going blind and possibly having a stroke. I had a very mild headache that I ignored. I got rushed to the hospital because of the aura, weakness, pins and needles all down my arm, feeling like I was going to pass out, and shaking with fever. I was completely shocked that a migraine could include little-to-no headache. Glad you finally got a diagnosis!
trudy-c Member
I find when I have a migraine it's as if my stomache stops working. When I throw up I will notice the food that I ate about 6 hours ago was still in my stomache. If I take a tablet orally it does not work because my stomache is not working. Has anyone noticed this?
silver Member
Loss of the memory of dreams. Waking too early for no reason. Trapped wind in the gut.
1. weeone Member
 Yep. My doc prescribed Zofran which melts in mouth for stomach which is godsend at times
2. dkfields74 Member
 <inline-mention username="silver" user-id="3723451"/> There is a brain-gut connection. A migraine can cause the gut to stop.
ivbnw8n4u Member
My migraines made a complete change over the last year. The pain used to start in my neck and move up, then typically settle on the left side, but a few times to the right or both. This past year, my migraines have moved forward, the left side of my face is where all the debilitating symptoms happen. Since the change, I had a thorough work up that did not show anything new. One newer symptom bothers me the most. My left eye and the area around it. Sometimes the socket feels bruised, sometimes my vision is not right, most of the time pressure helps. This symptom isn’t on any list, I am curious to know if anyone else experienced it? Following my complete work up, I was put on Ajovey and the Neurologist said it’s all I have left, I’ve tried everything else Another question I have is, does anyone how close to the eye they can get with Botox injections? I have had them before but in my forehead and occipital area. Thank you, Suellen
1. Melissa Arnold Community Admin
 Hi, Suellen! Eye pain and facial pain are symptoms experienced by many here in the community. It can have a number of causes, depending on what kind of migraine it is and other health factors in your life. There is also a separate condition called cluster headache that is famous for eye pain. Your best bet is to talk about your new experiences with your doctor, who would be able to advise you on your specific situation. Just know that you're not alone! I am not sure about your Botox question. Hopefully someone else will chime in. Please let us know if you get any answers -- we're happy to support you however we can. -Melissa, <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
2. weeone Member
 No idea on eye sockets, Mine are located with stabbing sensation in right eye. The right cheek goes numb with right side of neck also involved. My neurologist also does Botox injections in right side of neck in prime areas (approx 3) where pain shoots to. That is a huge relief even if it doesn’t make the area pain free, it makes it manageable.
paula4 Member
I'm approaching 80 and am concerned about the recent frequency of migraines. I had them starting with menopause and ended ten years later. The migraines began again after a tonsillectomy three months ago. I have no clue what the causes are.
1. Melissa Arnold Community Admin
 Hi, Paula. I'm sorry to hear that your migraines have returned after a long period of wellness. I can understand your worry. We can't give medical advice for your own safety, so I would encourage you to start with your general physician and see about getting referred to a neurologist, preferably a headache specialist. (Not all neurologists are experts in migraine.) I am wondering if going through surgery could have been a trigger for you in some way. Any number of factors could have influenced it. Regardless, know that there are many different treatment options available. If you don't get the right one, keep trying. And make sure you feel heard and respected by your doctors. We are here to answer questions and support you in any way we can. Please keep in touch. I'll be thinking of you! -Melissa, <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
silver Member
My complete list... At first it was nausea, shaking, unable to concentrate, tearfulness. Feeling like I'm in a bad dream. It came so suddenly. Then tightness on my chest, post nasal drip. Then upset gut. But all stool tests/blood tests were fine and normal. IBS was suggested. Usually loose bm's . Lower belly distention, wind pains, feeling like I have trapped wind in the colon. Then dizziness and a feeling of a blocked ear....which disappeared for a few days then came back, disappeared/came back etc for 2 months. That stopped, and then I got reflux. That disappears sometimes for days and days then comes back etc. I have to eat low fiber when my gut is flaring. Low Fodmaps don't always help. I have an unpredictable tolerance to caffeine, even the tiniest drop of coffee has me trembling and feeling bizarre and scared. On other days I can drink it with no effects! I had a bad time once with canned crab and can't drink wine (sulphates in both.) Alcohol can sometimes make me feel so bizarre like I have flu. Even after just a couple of sips. Heart palpitations. Skipped beats, about 4-6 a minute. Tooth sensitivity to cold. Upper teeth right side (the right side above the eye is where I get the head pain but that has been quite mild compared to the other things.) Bloodshot right eye. Leg weakness so bad I have to go down on the floor instantly. That happens about 3 x a year and passes within 5 minutes, max. Anxiety attacks. Thirst attacks. Craving water even when I have drunk plenty. Sometimes don't pee enough in a day. That happens when I am having a "good (ish)" day. Yet no edemas anywhere. No sign of fluid retention. Loss of appetite. Hungry but no appetite. Wake up too early. Very low body temperature. 
1. April.Sluder Moderator
 <inline-mention username="silver" user-id="3723451"/> That's a lot to have to manage. Can you share what you have found helpful in managing these symptoms? April - <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team
silver Member
I would be happy to, April. These symptoms go back three years, when it all started suddenly. At first I had no idea how to manage them. But I used ginger for the nausea and found it very effective. The head pain was never very bad. I kept away from painkillers as I didn't really need them. It was the other symptoms which were worst I also had a herbal tincture "Black Horehound", and that helps nausea when it is from the nervous system instead of from the stomach. That definitely helped. It is a tiny dose. I just had to try management strategies with each individual bout of symptoms as they cropped up -and they changed as time went by. I didn't find much to help with the dizzy spells to be honest, except patience and an instinct that it would change shape into something else again and all I had to do was "get through" that symptom (and it did pass, but I am sure could recur at any time). For the lower gut issues (which still happen, though it's a remit-relapse cycle) I tried the low FODMAP diet with a little success. But just when I thought I had it nailed...I'd flare even with low FODMAP foods. I would say I had about 60% help from that at a guess. Which was better than nothing! I eat low fiber until my gut calms down. That usually works (hard boiled eggs, white rice, white toast, lettuce etc) for a day or perhaps two. Giving up caffeine seemed to calm things down slightly. But then....sometimes I'd be tempted especially if I'd had little sleep. That does aggravate things though. With the GERD-like symptoms (which started December last year) I found DGL licorice powder helped 3x a day (1/8 teaspoon mixed with saliva and swallowed slowly.) Calcium citrate chewables also helped. Genuine Manuka honey, medical grade made a great difference. One teaspoon 3x a day, or 2x a day. I took a homeopathic remedy which also seemed to help at times. For the windy gut (Carbo Veg 30c) When it did help, it was very quick and I was amazed! But then it wasn't consistent. The next time I'd try it, I felt no benefit....etc. For sleep disturbance (early awakening), I have found nothing at all which helps. That has a mind of its own. It seems my brain is hyper-alert sometimes and that's beyond my control. Calming herbal teas before bedtime don't make much difference. I am reminded that often I feel worse when I get a good healthy 8 hours sleep....and better when I get 5 or 6! Go figure! So I accept it. For the sudden leg weakness, just learning not to be afraid of it. I am calmer whenever it happens now. It only ever happens early morning so at those times I'm OK at home. It only lasts a few minutes. For the shakiness which follows, I do diaphragmatic breathing exercises. This is all under the huge "umbrella" of my very strange migraine profile. I accept that the migraine can't be cured but I have found strategies which can ease symptoms when they happen. But none of it is a fun ride. 
1. Cheryl Picerno Moderator
 <inline-mention username="silver" user-id="3723451"/> Thanks for taking the time to give the specifics of how you combat your migraine symptoms. I know there are folks out there that will find it to be very helpful. Since everyone's migraines manifest differently I'm sure someone out there will have similar symptoms and hopefully will try your suggestions. Warmly, Cheryl <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
anonymous-123 Member
Been living with severe, chronic migraine since the age of 8. So almost 60 years now. Recently split with long term marriage, as communication/language problems, and partner who cannot deal with "sick people" had enough, and letting others know I should go into care. I'm tired of being treated as though I'm mentally ill, because when bad periods of migraines, struggle with memory/language/reading. Which of course has made life very isolating, made to feel worthless, useless, and a waste of oxygen. Everyone feeling sorry for hubby as he exaggerated/and straightout lie about the things he would do for me, to gain sympathy. Whilst I still cooked most meals, this is not how the stories went. Whenever I tried to do anything, I would be met with ridicule, "you can't do that!" Never leaving the house, as I "took too long to get ready" (due to movement disorder, due to migraine) so no shopping, socialising etc. As he couldn't stand being anywhere near me, he would be out all day, and most evenings. Avoiding sick people was best. So now, a friend is putting me up, whilst looking to move to a alternate location, cheaper area, inland rural location. It will be very hard to find new Drs, that will be my biggest challenge, someone who understands the complex nature and many symptoms associated with my migraines that are rarely known nor acknowledged. Along with other medical conditions. However, a new happier life is about to start, where I am taking the reins, and steering the course of my life's journey from hereon. Just my dogs and I. A much brighter future now, without all the judgement, and when I'm unwell I can rest, without feeling guilty. 
1. April.Sluder Moderator
 <inline-mention username="anonymous-123" user-id="4591237"/> It sounds like you've been through a lot, but you are looking forward to the future. That positivity will serve you well, and we wish you all the best. Please keep us updated on how you're doing. April - <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>Migraine.com</a> Team 
2. silver Member
 <inline-mention username="anonymous-123" user-id="4591237"/> You had been living in a very sad way and I am sorry to hear that. But now your life sounds as if it will be much brighter. Just you and your dogs in a rural place! That sounds like a version of heaven to me. I hope you start to make some nice friends, and good friends from your life will continue to keep in touch and/or even visit/ Sending kind wishes and give those doggies a kiss from me!
anonymous-123 Member
Thank you for your kind words.
Guinling Member
I've just been directed to this community. My mind is blown. I have so many of these symptoms and never knew they were migraine related, especially recently: earache/toothache ( but neither were infected), vertigo, thirst, tingling all over body, feet and legs going ice cold, and a new one in past 6 weeks, the sensation of slipping on ice! Thank you everyone, this is life changing stuff for me. 
1. Cheryl Picerno Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Guinling" user-id="8849306"/>, welcome to our community! We are glad you're here. Migraine disease is a very complex neurological disease, and it impacts people differently. Our community is full of experience from people who understand migraine and its symptoms. While we can't offer medical advice, we can guide and support you as you find your way through exploring treatment options and just living a full life while managing migraine attacks. If you have specific questions feel free to ask us or you can search the articles and forums. Thank you for being a part of the community! Warmly, Cheryl <a href='https://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team 
2. Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Guinling" user-id="8849306"/> welcome! I'm so glad that you found this community too. There are a lot of resources as you've hopefully seen, but the real value I believe is in the collective knowledge of the community. So please post questions. We can't give medical advice, but we certainly can share firsthand experiences. It's just really nice to connect with people who get it. We hope that you feel the same. Best Alene, moderator
poetdoll Member
This has been so helpful! I wish I would have read this 9 years ago. It took my psychiatrist (not my neurologist!) 1.5 years to diagnose me with allodynia bc she wouldn't settle for a generic fibromyalgia diagnosis! Before the diagnosis I thought I was crazy bc of this and I didn't want to be touched above the shoulders or even hugged. I cannot go out in the sun bc the crown of my head burns like I'm in an oven and gives me a migraine so I'm always in a hat or head covering. Also my skin "crawls" and I have adapted all my clothes where the neck does not touch my neck. All my t-shirts get cut! People just think I'm I'm crazy talented bc I sew the necklines w colorful thread! (glass half full!) Once I got diagnosed I cried- because it meant lots of accommodation, there was no cure but also just knowing that I wasn't crazy and there were ppl out there like me!
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="poetdoll" user-id="3719590"/> Isn't that wonderful! Wow. There are so many things like that related to migraine that people feel so relieved to realize that what they are experiencing are actual conditions and are related to migraine. Allodynia is one we hear of all the time. Aphasia is another (the challenge of finding words). Yet another is brain fog. Prodrome and Postdrome phases (which refer to the sometimes lengthy windows of time that random symptoms can show themselves before and after a migraine attack). These are things that are common for people with migraine to experience and yet they don't realize they are common. When they realize these are normal experiences- and conditions that have names- there is a great relief that occurs. So glad this happened with and for you! Thanks for sharing this. Warmly - Holly (team member)