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Severe fatigue

Hello. I am new to this site so I apologize if this has been discussed before. I am having severe fatigue after a migraine. So severe that doing simple things like showering is making me exhausted. Is this normal?

  1. Greetings - We're so grateful you have joined us - welcome to the community!
    As for your question, fatigue is a common symptom that accompanies migraine. I totally relate to what you shared as when I'm in the midst of an attack (or right before or after) I get so exhausted and weak that I also can't even stand for a shower.
    Migraine is a depleting condition that drains us of our energy. It is a complex and comprehensive neurological condition that has many symptoms related to our neurology (including energy). So, fatigue can come from multiple sources - as a symptom of the condition itself; as a result of navigating the demanding nature of attacks; and, lastly - it can appear as a common side effect of various treatments that we use to prevent and/or treat migraine. Are you taking any medications to help manage the condition? It is for these reasons that many people living with migraine feel exhausted.
    We do have a lot of resources on this topic, and rather than pick out only one or two articles to share, I'm going to give a link to a page that shows all the articles and forums that are dedicated to the topic: https://migraine.com/search?s=fatigue. This way you can take your time in perusing what's available and see what is most helpful to you. Please be sure to take a look at the comment section that follows each piece as the input from community members is often the most helpful resource we have.
    Please know we are here to provide information and support and we look forward to learning more about you. Let us know what additional thoughts and questions you are having. We are here for you. Warmly- Holly -migraine.com team.

    1. Hi! Welcome. I'm glad you're here -- this site has a wealth of information and is a great place to ask those "does anyone else..." questions.

      In addition to the link Holly sent you about fatigue, you might be interested in knowing (if you don't already) that there are four phases to a migraine attack. The last one is called postdrome, and is very often nicknamed a migraine hangover because of the way it makes most people feel fatigued and foggy. So, unfortunately, you're in good company.

      Also, some migraine meds can really make you feel exhausted! That's worth looking into, if you haven't.

      Take good care of yourself -- we're here if you want to talk! -Melissa, migraine.com team

      1. I walk and/or do water aerobics on my non migraine days and do gentle yoga stretches on a mat on my off days.


        1. That's great, thank you for joining the conversation. I hear you about being active on low pain/non-migraine days. Days like that always give me hope and a much needed boost in my mood!
          How are you today? I'm sending you wishes for a low pain day, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator (team member)

        2. Inspiring. Thanks for sharing. Low-packed exercises such as yoga, swimming, and walking are great ways to remain well-balanced and healthy. And a good way to keep migraines at bay. Rebecca (team member)

      2. Hi there! Yes, it's normal to feel extremely fatigued after a migraine. Migraines can be draining, leaving you exhausted. Make sure to rest and hydrate well. If it persists, consider talking to a healthcare provider.

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