Top 75 Migraine and Headache Questions, #9

Full Question:
How can I tell the difference between migraine and stroke? I suffer classic migraines with aura, accompanied by one-sided numbness. This sounds just like a stroke. No one has been able to tell me how to differentiate between these two. Sincerely, gg.

Answer:

Dear gg;

This is a question which often comes up. First of all, age is an issue, as we don't think of strokes primarily in younger folks. Two, 15-20% of Migraines are accompanied by neurologic symptoms which go away during or shortly after the Migraine. Stroke symptoms are usually much slower to recede. I hope that helps a little. It's a large topic with a lot of information about both issues on the Internet. One precaution to take is to always consult your doctor is your symptoms are different or if you have the worst Migraine you've ever had.

Good luck,
John Claude Krusz and Teri Robert

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Dr. Krusz is a recognized expert in the fields of headache and migraine treatment and pain treatment. Each week, he and Lead Expert Teri Robert, team up to answer your questions about headaches and Migraines. You can read more about Dr. Krusz or more about Teri Robert. If you have a question for this section of our site, please click HERE. Accepted questions will be answered by publishing the answers here. No questions will be answered privately.

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