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Migraines and writing

We were at an important signature signing while I was having a migraine. About half way through I couldn't sign my name. I didn't even recognize my signature. I had to stop and slowly spell my name to myself to continue signing. Is that something anyone else has had issues with? Should I contact my migraine specialist?

  1. @ashleyheather that sounds like it was a really disorienting experience. Aphasia and other cognitive impairments can sure be frustrating and sometimes scary. My husband has had issues like this before and he is at a loss for getting his words out either by speaking or writing. I would definitely bring this up with your migraine specialist. It's important that they know what you experience and how it impacts your life. Warmly, Cheryl migraine.com team

    1. I have told my husband but I don't think he fully understands. It is difficult for him because he is so healthy. I thought I was going crazy when my brain fog started.

      1. @ashleyheather it's hard sometimes for people that don't experience what we go through to fully understand what it's all about, but at least your husband is healthy. I hope he is a vital part of your support system. My husband says the brain fog is one of his worst symptoms, but luckily that has improved with medication. Warmly, Cheryl migraine.com team

      2. Definitely not crazy -- it's tough to deal with! Do you think it might be useful to show him some articles we have on the site about brain fog? We can help you find a good one, if so. -Melissa, migraine.com team

    2. Hi Cheryl, He knows when I am bad he will be quiet and leave me alone. He his the shopper for us. My newest symptom is somewhere between my brain and my hand writing is a struggle.

      1. @ashleyheather I'm glad to hear he can read your symptoms and provide some help. Any help getting through a migraine attack is much appreciated! My husband likes to shop also so that's a big help. I'd make sure to cover your newest symptom with your doctor. It's always good for them to have a full picture of your symptoms. Warmly, Cheryl migraine.com team

    3. this happens to me too. I noticed one day I had trouble signing a check. It's like there is a disconnect between my hand and mind and I get stuck in the middle of my first name. This also happens when speaking. Some neighbors wished me a Happy Thanksgiving as they piled in their car the day before and I stood there rake in my hands speechless. All the right words were in my head I just couldn't get them out. They don't say "hi" anymore. Also the more common word substitutions. I have a microwave when my mom asks me how I am. Ugh. I avoid going out in any stage of migraine because I don't know when it will happen and the neighbors already think I'm weird! I told my specialist. Same response as usual. Shrug of the shoulders and "migraine". But it is scary. I still report everything new.

      1. Thank you for your kind words and support Holly. You and all the moderators as well as the community make such a difference as we wander in the wilderness of new symptoms. I've learned way more here than any doctor has taught me about migraine. Understandably so as they are busy. But sometimes they drop the ball when they dismiss or just don't validate symptoms. I've learned to stay quiet as I know what I feel is real and it is happening to others because of this community. So thank you, thank you.

      2. So glad to hear that you've found this community to be supportive, validating, and helpful. That's exactly what we're here for and we learn from you as well. The issue of self-advocacy is tricky. Sometimes we do have to choose our battles when we are busy navigating active pain. I thought you might be interested in taking a look at this piece on the topic (as well as an interesting community member comment that follows the article): https://migraine.com/living-migraine/strategies-for-self-advocacy
        We are here with you, and for you. Stay in touch. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).

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