Migraine is a neurological disorder. Most sufferers show no outward signs of the illness unless encountered during an acute attack. Migraine, especially chronic migraine, is not a simple headache, but one of the most debilitating pain conditions that can afflict people. Women are particularly affected. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies migraine as one of the most disabling diseases. Sometimes an attack begins with aura symptoms, which are neurological deficits such as visual disturbances, difficulty finding words, speech difficulties, tingling or numb sensations, paralysis, and impaired consciousness, sometimes progressing to unconsciousness. These are followed by the typical, usually one-sided, stabbing, throbbing, and severe headaches, which can last up to three days and often require bed rest. The entire body is affected: In addition, sufferers experience nausea and/or vomiting, dizziness, exhaustion, sensitivity to light and noise, social isolation, despair, hopelessness, and depression. Migraine is an independent primary illness and not a symptom of another disorder. Those affected are neither unwilling to work, mentally ill, nor seeking attention. They simply expect not to have to justify themselves, not to be ridiculed, and not to be discriminated against by prejudice. Three affected individuals describe their experience in the video.
I've had migraines since I was 11, and I'm now 43. Over the last seven years, my migraines have worsened, and my threshold for experiencing them has become extremely low. I used to have attacks twice a week, lasting up to 72 hours. Triptans became less and less effective, only relieving the peak pain. Now, however, things are starting to change. I've been on sick leave for three months and have had time to adopt and establish a new lifestyle. I'm making several adjustments. First, I had blood work done. For the past few weeks, I've been replenishing all the nutrients where deficiencies were found: iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin D. I'm also taking high-dose magnesium twice a day as a preventative measure, as well as vitamin B2 (riboflavin) twice a day. I see an osteopath and practice progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) daily. Two to three times a week, I go to the gym for strength training and cardio. After each workout, I do relaxation exercises similar to PMR. I make sure to eat regularly and drink enough fluids. And it's gradually starting to take effect. The intervals between attacks are getting longer, and the attacks themselves don't last as long. I can feel my threshold for triggering migraines rising. I'm able to tolerate more again, to venture further into new territory, like enjoying a glass of Prosecco or eating a small histamine-rich snack without immediately fearing another migraine. I'm on the right track again. My body is starting to cooperate instead of protesting. I'm training my autonomic nervous system to release tension after activity/stress, something that's often missing in chronic migraines: the shift into parasympathetic mode. My goal is to regulate the migraines to such an extent that, ideally, only the predisposition remains, or just a few attacks per year like before. But one thing is clear: without being on sick leave for this long period, it would have been impossible to relearn how to manage them and regain control. And I'm not finished yet; it still needs to stabilize in the long term. I haven't felt this optimistic or had such high expectations in years! They were even talking about partial retirement or a career change! Now, suddenly, I have so much energy again because I'm experiencing fewer days of pain. I'm so grateful my efforts are finally bearing fruit!
Hello,
I've been suffering from chronic migraines for 10 years now (since age 8). Initially, I was diagnosed with tension headaches. But with the onset of puberty, it worsened – especially under stress.
Even my parents didn't take my headaches seriously for the first few years, until I started vomiting and the intense stabbing pain made it nearly impossible for me to lead a normal life. I also often felt isolated, as no one could understand my pain. I started missing school several times and felt like I wasn't on equal footing. While others had plenty of time to prepare for exams, I lay in bed waiting for the pain to subside. Of course, I had to catch up on everything – so it robbed me of my free time. While others could go to the movies, parties, and out and about, I had to forgo these activities because they would trigger my migraines.
I took beta-blockers as a preventative measure for six months. My headaches seemed to lessen, the pain became less intense, and life seemed easier.
Then I was told, however, that the results didn't show any significant improvement. I had imagined I was feeling better. The preventative medication only gave me psychological reassurance.
I'm still looking for a solution to my chronic migraines.
Hello, I've had migraines since childhood. For many years, I've suffered from up to 25 migraine days a month, sometimes with severe aura. On the few migraine-free days, I'm completely pain-free and know how wonderful life could be. Several attempts to withdraw from painkillers, during which I went through hell because I endured the migraines without a "parachute," were unsuccessful. Otherwise, I've exhausted all medication and alternative methods and now only take metoprolol and amitriptyline. Numerous accompanying illnesses rule out Botox treatment and nerve stimulation. My zest for life is often at rock bottom. And I still have to justify myself to most people, even doctors, who think I just have a minor headache. That's actually the worst part—the daily humiliation of having to explain myself while the sharp pain rages in my head, I vomit despite intense hunger, and I've once again refrained from taking a triptan so as not to be responsible for an additional medication-induced headache. Luckily, I have a wonderful husband with whom I cherish the few hours we have together and for whom I persevere. Nevertheless, I know that my illness is also a significant burden on his life.
I hope that a cure will one day be found for all those affected There are medications that alleviate the pain on triptan-free days, and I wish everyone greater acceptance from colleagues, friends, and doctors. And I also wish you someone by your side who understands and appreciates the advantages of a migraine-prone brain.
Hello,
I've been experiencing this for 12 weeks now. In the evenings I feel great, but around 4 a.m. I sleep restlessly, though unfortunately I don't wake up. At 7 a.m. the alarm rings and the migraine is in full swing. I vomit until only bile comes up. Since MCP drops are no longer available, I've been prescribed Motilium drops. These help well, and after 20-30 minutes I take a 10mg Rizatriptan orally disintegrating tablet. As a preventative measure, I've also been prescribed beta-blockers. I've seen specialists in pain diagnostics, and they all labeled me as depressed and wanted to prescribe psychotropic medication, which I refused. "Well, then I can't help you either"... great specialists. I have one or two attacks per week and am now worried about losing my job. My employer is understanding, but for how much longer?
I just bought your book, Mr. Hartmut Göbel, and I'm already eagerly reading it. I hope that all those affected finally find the right doctors who can help us!