Amidst the heatwave taking over Northeast Ohio, this week also marked the start of summer and the summer solstice, the longest day of year in which we had the most light on June 20.
June is headache and migraine awareness month, and today, Shades for Migraine encourages people to show support for those who suffer from migraines by wearing sunglasses. The day spreads awareness and education on reducing stigma and showing support for those who are living with migraine disease.
“About 71% of patients with migraines can be managed by a primary care provider. If you suffer from headaches or migraines, it’s important to mention them to your doctor at your yearly physical or make a separate appointment to discuss your symptoms,” explains Deborah Reed, MD, FAHS, Director of Headache Medicine for University Hospitals. “There are many new medications on the market, so I tell my patients if they haven’t tried something to combat their symptoms within the past five years, we have new, acute migraine-specific medicines we can utilize as tools to help them enhance their quality of life.”
Headaches and migraines are different. Migraines often include light and sound sensitivity (photophobia and phonophobia), as well as nausea, Dr. Reed says. “There is often brain fog during and between headaches, as well as trouble concentrating and focusing. Migraine with aura is rare, and really underscores how it’s a neurochemical brain disorder. Those who suffer with this type of migraine tend to deal with seeing flashing or kaleidoscope lights, or can have dizziness and weakness.”
While living a healthy lifestyle is important, and can help with some types of headache and migraine symptoms, for people who get regular headaches and migraines (four to six per month), Dr. Reed suggests talking with your primary care provider and trying preventive medication.
While more than one billion people suffer from migraines, there is a shortage of doctors that specialize in this field. University Hospitals is working to address this with the help of a patient advocacy group to raise funds for fellowships and train more headache doctors.
On July 13th, Miles for Migraine, a patient advocacy group, is sponsoring a free walk/run/relax event. Athletes can participate in a 5K run (in person or virtually), a 2 mi walk, or just relax in a climate controlled sensory tent area if they’re having a bad day.
Any donations made will be put towards funding fellowships.
More information can be found online at milesformigraine.org/ohio/
