ard the eye.

So, if you notice that you are getting headaches when you are stressed, it could be related to any of those types. But if you are noticing that you're getting knots in the muscle and you've been sat at a computer for a long time or your chin's been tucked out, it may well be related to the neck rather than just the stress and tension.

I'll probably cover some of those types of headaches in later episodes. But for today, I just want to focus on migraines because they are in a league of their own.

What exactly is a migraine? Why is it so different from a regular headache?
This is a question I hear a lot. And it is essential to clear up the misconceptions that migraines are just headaches that are worse. Migraines are actually a neurological condition. This means that they involve the brain and the nervous system, not just pain in the head.

While a tension headache might feel like dull, steady pressure, migraines come with a host of other symptoms that can make them truly disabling. The duration of a migraine can vary significantly. Some can last anywhere from 4 hours to up to 72 hours, which is why the impact on daily life can be so profound.

So, my migraines are—well, I think they're pretty severe. I can't do anything else when I have one. But they usually last probably 4 to 5 hours and don't happen very regularly. But when I get them, they are terrible. On the other hand, my sister experiences migraines that are less intense but can last for several days.

It just shows that every person is different and experiences them in their own way.

What actually happens during a migraine?
Migraines come in different stages.

1. Initial brain changes:
   It often starts with a subtle shift in the brain. This could affect mood, energy, or sensitivities to light and sound, which is what I find. These changes are linked to brain chemicals like serotonin.
2. The aura phase:
   Not everybody gets this, but if you are one of those people that do get an aura, you know it's like a bit of a warning sign. It can involve visual disturbances like flashing lights or zigzag lines. For me, it's like looking through one of those kaleidoscopes without the colours.

Or do you remember those bug-eye things you used to look through that made it look like you were seeing through a fly's eyes? For me, that's what it's like. This happens due to a wave of electrical activity moving across the brain, temporarily disrupting nerve function. I know my auras last for about 20 minutes, and I’ve got that little window to take some medication and get home to a dark room.

1. The pain phase:
   Depending on how bad it gets and whether you've taken medication in time—for me, if I've not taken it in time, the pain is bad. It's really bad. During this phase, the blood vessels in the brain dilate, which activates the trigeminal nerve, a nerve heavily involved in sensation and pain.

The nerve releases chemicals that cause inflammation and pain, leading to throbbing, pulsing pain usually on one side of the head. Migraines don't just stop at pain. They often come with nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound, making it really hard to function.

For me, if I don’t take my medication quickly enough, I end up being sick, and then there’s no chance of taking anything else because I’ve thrown it all up.

1. Post-drome or recovery phase:
   Even when the main pain subsides, you might feel drained or have brain fog as your body recovers. This is often called a migraine hangover, which I certainly experience. After a migraine, I don’t feel great for the next few hours—or even days.

And that’s why migraines aren’t just a bad headache. They are a full-body experience.

Triggers and Management
Now we know what migraines are, let's talk about triggers. One of the most challenging parts of managing migraines is figuring out what sets them off because triggers can vary so much.

Common triggers include:

• Hormonal changes: Migraines often align with the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause due to oestrogen fluctuations.
• Certain foods or drinks: Cheeses, processed meats, or red wine.
• Caffeine: Both too much and withdrawal can lead to migraines.
• Sensory triggers: Bright lights, loud noises, or strong smells.
• Lifestyle factors: Stress, poor sleep, or dehydration.

For me, bright lights, stress, and not wearing my glasses are big triggers. Add show week with its bright stage lights, costumes, and stress, and I’m bound to get a migraine.

Management Strategies
Managing migraines involves trial and error. Some strategies include:

• Lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, staying hydrated, and keeping a balanced diet.
• Medical treatment: Over-the-counter medications or prescribed tryptans.
• Complementary therapies: Physiotherapy, acupuncture, or cold compresses.
• Stress reduction: Meditation, deep breathing, or using techniques like the CONTROL method.

One surprising tip I found effective is using a heat pack on my feet. The theory is it redirects blood flow, easing pressure in the brain. It’s worth trying!

Final Thoughts
Migraines are more than just a headache—they’re a full-body experience that can affect your daily life. The key is finding what works for you, avoiding triggers, and managing symptoms.

I hope today’s episode gave you some insights and strategies. Share this episode with someone who might find it helpful, and don’t forget to tune in next time. Take care and remember, prioritise your wellbeing!