Migraines increasing... now with debilitating aura... prememopausal?

Question: Migraines increasing... now with debilitating aura... prememopausal?

Answer:

Dear Lori,

Since you mention stress, let's clarify the role of stress in Migraine disease. Stress isn't a Migraine trigger. It's what's termed an exacerbating factor. Stress doesn't trigger a Migraine, but it makes us more susceptible to our triggers. An analogy that makes it clearer: We're more susceptible to a cold when stressed. Stress doesn't give us the cold; the cold virus does. We're more susceptible to Migraine when stressed. Stress doesn't trigger the Migraine; our triggers do.

Although some women will see a change in Migraine patterns when they near menopause, you really need to see your doctor about your changes. First, you need to be sure that all your symptoms really are Migraine related. Second, with that many Migraines, some form of preventive medication may be in order for you, especially since they're debilitating.

Sorry, but there isn't one definitive answer here. Your changes could be linked to oncoming menopause, or they could be changes that are just occurring with the passing of time. Migraine patterns often change. When they do, it's best to see your doctor.

Good luck,
Teri Robert and John Claude Krusz

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