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Hemiplegic Migraine

This rare type of migraine, also known as a familial hemiplegic migraine, is one of the many complicated migraine types known.

There are even more perplexing because there being two variations:

Familial Hemiplegic Type Migraine (FHM)
Sporadic Hemiplegic Type Migraine (SHM).

First, in order to understand these types of migraines, we have to understand that Migraine attacks are episodic manifestations of a neurological disease that has genetic "coat strings."

When Do These Complicated Migraines Start?

Hemiplegic Migraine, both FHM and SHM often begin in childhood and disappear by the second decade.

Diagnosing FHM and SHM can be difficult as the symptoms are also indicative of vascular disease. and can be thought to be stroke, epilepsy, or other conditions.

Hemiplegic migraine, familial hemiplegic migraine, complicated migraine.

A full neurological work up and careful review of medical history and symptoms are necessary to rule out other conditions and confirm a diagnosis of FHM or SHM. Family medical history is especially helpful in diagnosing FHM.

Symptoms of a Familial Hemiplegic Type of Migraine

FHM and SHM share the same symptoms, which will vary among different Migraineurs. The difference between the two is that FHM can be traced back in the family history and has been linked to mutations of specific genes.

SHM is FHM without the familial/genetic link and that particular genetic mutation.

Symptoms of These Migraine Types both - FHM and SHM

Episodes of prolonged aura (up to several days or weeks)
Hemiplegia (paralysis on one side of the body)
Fever
Meningismus (symptoms of meningitis without the actual illness and accompanying inflammation)
Impaired consciousness ranging from confusion to profound coma
Headache, which may begin before the hemiplegia or be absent
Ataxia (defective muscle coordination)
The onset of the hemiplegia may be sudden and simulate a stroke
Phonophobia and/or photophobia (sensitivity to sound and or light)

Treatment of FHM and SHM Migraines

The diagnosis for these conditions is key. After an accurate diagnosis, treatment of Hemiplegic Migraine is simplified but still challenging.

When compared to Common Migraine Headache, these symptoms are greater in number and more difficult to treat. Those who experience these complicated migraines absolutely need to learn about this condition and treatment.

It's very common to need to seek the care of an excellent migraine specialist with an established track record for treatment as many other doctors have never treated a case of hemiplegic types of migraines.

The Beyond Headaches Lifestyle tour is a great starting point to learn and adopt the attitude that will be needed, to be strong, empowered, as you or your child wade through the challenges associated with this rare condition.

Find out more about Complicated Migraine Headaches here

Click on the Filmstrip images to view the FREE Beyond Headaches Video Tour.

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Hemiplegic migraine, familial hemiplegic migraine, complicated migraine.