pattern change
I have chronic migraines (53 years) but now that I have eliminated most of my food triggers, they aren't the worst type anymore. I have noticed a pattern change this summer. I have always gotten them around 3 am. If I am lucky, they don't get much worse. Typically, I have "good" weeks and "bad" weeks. Same diet. Now I notice that some are starting at 5 am or not until 4 pm which is rare. So, I'd like to know what causes pattern changes. Age? I have read that some of us get better as we age. I am hoping this is the trend I am experiencing.
, this is a great question. Thank you for sharing what you are experiencing. I view migraine as a living entity that has chosen to reside within us. So many factors feed into how we experience migraine disease. Hormone changes, stress, triggers of all kinds, comorbid conditions, and nature all affect how migraine impacts our lives. One thing I have experienced is that migraine changes and morphs over time. My attacks today are very different from when I was a teen. I am fortunate to have identified my triggers that I can avoid, so I only suffer from episodic migraine attacks now. My attacks have improved as I have aged, and the therapies available to treat them. My husband has not been that lucky. He was episodic in his younger years and has become chronic as he ages. What causes these pattern changes varies for each of us. In addition to what I mentioned above, our lifestyle can also play a part in changing our migraine patterns. It is a good idea to document what you are experiencing and share that with your treating doctor. Some aspects of your life or care plan can be tweaked to optimize your migraine management. I hope your trend of fewer migraine days continues! Warmly, Cheryl migraine.com team
Thank you for reaching out with your question. Assaid, it's a good one! Yes, it's not uncommon for our migraine patterns and symptoms to change over time. The thing is it's always a good idea to let the doctor know so he/she can make sure everything checks out OK.
I did want to mention when we wake with migraine pain, it may be an indication of a sleep issue, of which there are many! I wonder if it's time to have a conversation with your doctor about having a sleep study? Getting sleep disorders under control can help reduce attack frequency for some of us, it has for me.
I hope you keep us posted and I'm wishing you a low pain day, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator Migraine.com Team
