Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Friday, February 18, 2011 Zulema asks

Q: Migraines with pain at the base of the skull which radiate to the neck

I was diagnosed with migraines years ago, but recently I've noticed that I get pain near the back of my skull which raditaes down my neck.  A few weeks ago I I had a migraine for about 3 days that just wouldn't go away; I was at work & I couldn't physically lift my head up due to the pain, but what's scaring me is the fact that both my boss and the EMT told me that I was inchorrent and they couldn't understand anything I was saying to them. I knew what I wanted to say, but couldn't seem to get the words out properly. I've had a MRI and an EEG and my neurologist states both tests were normal, but I can't help wondering if something more is going on. I've noticed that the duration of my migraines are longer and everytime I've had a mirgraine for the past few months I've had the pain near the base of the skull radiating to the neck. Should I be concerned?

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Answers (1)
Teri Robert, Health Guide
2/20/11 4:11pm

Zulema,

 

-:¦:-•:*'""*:•.-:¦:-•*Welcome to MyMigraineConnection!*•-:¦:-•:*'""*:•.-:¦:-

 

Recent research has revealed that neck pain is a common Migraine symptom, in fact, more common than nausea. Take a look at Neck Pain as a Migraine Symptom

 

Language is often affected by Migraine-- not being able to find the words we want or speak clearly. This is called aphasia, and we saw it in the news a lot this last week. Take a look at Serene Branson Had a Migraine, Not a Stroke.

 

You were quite right to take your concerns to your doctor. Any time we have new symptoms or our Migraines worsen, that's exactly what we should do. Migraine symptoms can be so similar to symptoms of other issues -- stroke, TIA, and so on -- so it's very important to get checked out and be safe.

 

I fully understand your concern; I'd be concerned in your situation too. But, it's really not safe for anyone to say whether you should be concerned by answering you via the Internet. The only person who can do that SAFELY is a doctor who can review your and your family's medical history, discuss your symptoms with you, and conduct a complete examination. So, here's something to remember - there's absolutely nothing wrong with getting a second opinion. Nothing.

 

Especially given the changes in your pattern, you might want to consider consulting a Migraine specialist even. 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.

 

I hope this information helps you a bit even though I can't tell you whether you should be concerned. Would you please keep me posted on how you're doing?

 

Welcome again,

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By Zulema— Last Modified: 04/19/11, First Published: 02/18/11