Migraine loops or clusters
Hi all, I've been trying to get clarity on my migraine pattern, and neither the internet not my neurologist had too much insight, so I wanted to ask if anyone has a similar experience. My migraines seem to come in "loops", or clusters, where once I have one I'm super likely to have more every other day or so until I can break the cycle (usually with a few days of nurtec.) They aren't cluster headaches (my main symptom is aura, usually significantly worse than the head pain) but I haven't been able to find any decent research on "cluster migraines." Anyone else have migraines in "sets"?
Thanks
Avmgirl
Hi
Great question! Thank you for bringing this up. Let me share my thoughts on this with you. There is no diagnosis of "cluster migraine." Migraine attacks may come in cycles, but shouldn't be confused with cluster headache, which is a different beast altogether. It's easy to confuse the two, I understand especially when the doctor isn't being very helpful. We have more information on this topic here; https://migraine.com/living-migraine/cluster-headache-differences and https://migraine.com/living-migraine/cluster-explained.
It may be time to keep a migraine diary/journal to see what patterns and symptoms your attacks have. There are a number of ways to do this, and most migraine/headache experts suggest we do this. Apps, pen and paper or whatever is easiest for you. This article has more information; https://migraine.com/blog/keeping-migraine-diary-basics.
I wonder if it's time to reach out to a doctor who is more knowledgeable about migraine and headache disease. Here's the thing: migraine and headache disease experts are different from general neurologists as they are certified in headache medicine, all neurologists are not. General neurologists may be fine doctors but have a hard time being experts in one area because they treat many conditions such as stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's and more. A true migraine/headache disease doctor treats migraine and headache all day, every day. Here is more information on how these doctors are different and how to find one;
https://migraine.com/blog/really-find-headache-specialist/
https://migraine.com/living-migraine/neurologist-vs-specialist
https://migraine.com/living-migraine/change-thoughts-new-care
Let me know what you think and I hope today is a low pain day, Nancy Harris Bonk, Patient Leader/Moderator Migraine.com Team
