Causes of a Hemiplegic Migraine
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Background
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Hemiplegic migraines are typically classified as migraines with aura. An aura is the grouping of symptoms that can occur before or during the migraine. According to the Mayo Clinic, a migraine aura usually occurs within an hour before head pain begins and generally lasts from 10 to 30 minutes before disappearing. Migraines with aura can affect anyone, but often begin at childhood and are more common in women than men.
Triggers
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Hemiplegic migraines can be triggered by stress, hormonal changes, fatigue, head injury, bright lights, unusual smells, environmental changes, hunger, loud noises, alcohol, changes in sleep patterns and even certain foods and medications. Avoiding these triggers may help reduce the frequency of hemiplegic migraines.
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Types of Hemiplegic Migraines
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Hemiplegic migraines have been narrowed down to two types. The first is familial hemiplegic migraine, which is hereditary and caused by a gene mutation. A majority of the people who suffer with familial hemiplegic migraines have one parent with the condition. The second type of hemiplegic migraine is referred to as a sporadic hemiplegic migraine. Its cause is undetermined. These two types of hemiplegic migraines share similar symptoms.
Symptoms
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Hemiplegic migraines are rare. The symptoms can be unpredictable and can vary for each person. With this type of migraine, the senses are affected usually prior to a localized headache pain that resides anywhere between the back of the head to the front. Commonly someone with a hemiplegic migraine will have impaired vision, including flashes of light, zigzagging lines, blind spots, double vision, and even temporary loss of vision. Some people may experience confusion or have speech trouble. (See Reference 2) Tingling in the face or weakness in the arms and legs can also occur in people with a hemiplegic migraine. (See Reference 2) Beyond sensory problems, sensitivity to light, severe head pain, and nausea or vomiting are among the symptoms that can occur with a hemiplegic migraine. Painful skin is also complaint among hemiplegic migraine sufferers. This may sound strange but it is quite common and is generally noticed during a daily routine, such as brushing hair. In very few cases, hemiplegic migraines have been reported without head pain.
Treatments
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Immediate medical attention is recommended when any of the above symptoms occur. A prescription medication may help to treat the symptoms and prevent future hemiplegic migraines. Preventive treatments include beta-blockers, anti-depressants, anti-convulsants, calcium-channel blockers, and serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs). In addition, other medications may be prescribed to stop a hemiplegic migraine before it starts. These medications include ergots, serotonin agonists/triptans, and isometheptene. Consult with a physician to determine which treatment, if any, is best.
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