About Hemiplegic Migraines

Hemiplegic migraines are a rare form of migraine headache that impact the entire body. Hemiplegic migraines have a rapid onset and may closely mimic the symptoms of stroke. These symptoms do no long-term damage and last from minutes to days. This form of migraine may or may not be accompanied by an actual headache, which makes the diagnosis of hemiplegic migraines difficult.

Types

• Two identifiable forms of hemiplegic migraines have been identified, Sporadic Hemiplegic Migraine (SHM) and Familial Hemiplegic Migraine (FHM). Both SHM and FHM are identical in their symptoms and treatment. Familial Hemiplegic Migraines, however, can be traced to a first or second degree relative and Sporadic Hemiplegic Migraines cannot. Individuals with FHM have a genetic mutation on chromosomes 1 or 19.

Features

• Although some specific symptoms of hemiplegic migraines very among individuals all sufferers experience temporary paralysis or muscle weakness on one side of the body. Individuals may or may not also have nausea, loss of muscle coordination, headache, weakness, fever or migraine aura. A migraine aura is a physical or sensory change that occurs prior to a migraine such as visual disturbances, tingling sensations, drowsiness or depression.

Identification

• A diagnosis of hemiplegic migraine is based exclusively on clinical symptoms. Because the symptoms of hemiplegic migraines so closely overlap the symptoms of stroke the first step in diagnosis is to rule out any possibility that a stroke has occurred. Once stroke and other conditions like cancer and epilepsy have been ruled out the patient's symptoms are compared to the hemiplegic migraine diagnostic criteria established by the International Headache Society and a diagnosis is made accordingly.

Prevention/Solution

• There is currently no cure for hemiplegic migraines. Treatment for both FHM and SHM is focused on determining episode triggers, preventing episodes and treating symptoms such as pain and nausea. Pain relievers and anti-nausea medications are often prescribed to relieve symptoms. Avoiding common triggers such as chocolate, stress, alcohol and sleep deprivation may also help reduce the occurrence of episodes.

Considerations

• Individuals with FHM and SHM are at an increased risk of strokes and must be monitored by their physicians accordingly. Medications to reduce migraine symptoms, called triptans, cannot be taken by individuals with hemiplegic migraines as they narrow blood vessels and increase the risk of stroke. It is especially important for individuals with the condition to make family members and friends aware of their condition so they may respond appropriately during an episode.