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Q: How common are the types of migraines that I get?
taylorjones,
-:¦:-•:*'""*:•.-:¦:-•*Welcome to MyMigraineConnection!*•-:¦:-•:*'""*:•.-:¦:-
One of the most important things is to get an accurate diagnosis. To simplify matters and make it easier for people to get information and treatment, doctors usually go by the gold standard for diagnosis, the International Headache Society's International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd Edition (ICHD-II). Although people often ask what “complex” or “complicated” Migraines are, there’s no such diagnoses under ICHD-II. We do see it used, but doctors use it differently, so it really doesn't tell anyone what type of Migraine you actually have. You can read more about this What Is a Complex or Complicated Migraine? and The Type of Migraine Does Matter.
When one side of the body becomes weak, it's usually hemiplegic Migraine. You can read more about that type of Migraine in Hemiplegic Migraine - The Basics. Hemiplegic Migraine is one of the less common forms of Migraine. If this is the type of Migraine you have, it's important that you find out. Many doctors do not prescribe triptans and other abortives for hemiplegic Migraine. However, nobody can diagnose via the Internet. What type of Migraine you have needs to be confirmed by a doctor who can review your and your family's medical history, discuss your symptoms with you, and conduct a complete examination.
Your neurologist should be able to tell you what form of Migraine you have. If not, it's time for a new doctor. It may well be time to consult a Migraine and headache specialist. It’s important to note that neurologists aren’t necessarily Migraine and headache specialists. Take a look at the article Migraine and Headache Specialists - What's So Special? If you need help finding a Migraine specialist, check our listing of Patient Recommended Migraine and Headache Specialists.
Please keep me posted on how you're doing and what you find out?
Welcome again,
Teri
My understanding is "complex" migraines are not all that common, though I know a lot of people here on MMC who get them.
The only part of what you're describing that is uncommon though is the stroke like symptoms. The rest, pain, vomiting, sensitivity, are all very common in a migraine attack.
Your neurologist should have given you a migraine abortive medication, such as Imitrex, Relpax, Maxlat, etc. If the first one you try doesn't work, keep trying other kinds. Many people have to go through a few triptans before they find the right one.
If you are getting more than 3 or 4 migraine attacks per month, you should discuss preventive medications with your physician.
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