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A lesser known but grave form of migraine is Hemiplegic Migraine, which is characterized by the total or partial paralysis on one side of the body. The paralysis may persist from a few hours to several days. The migraine episode may be set off by a minor head trauma, like those resulting from sport injuries, or by other migraine triggers.
Two Variations
Hemiplegic Migraines may either be a Familial Hemiplegic Migraine (FHM) or Sporadic Hemiplegic Migraine (SHM). Both types usually starts in childhood and stop during the adult years. Identifying FHM and SHM can be tricky as the indicators are also suggestive of vascular ailment. A complete neurological testing and review of the patient’s personal and family medical history and symptoms will be valuable in diagnosing the disease.
Symptoms
FHM and SHM have the same symptoms and just vary among migraine sufferers. However, FHM is hereditary while SHM is not.
- Occurrences of extended aura period (to several days or weeks)
- Paralysis on one side of the body
- Fever
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Symptoms of meningitis but not the actual disease and inflammation
- Ataxia (Bad muscle coordination)
- Impaired consciousness
- Headache
- Sensitivity to light and/or sound
Treatment
Abortive and Pain Alleviation
Triptans and ergotamines (abortives) are presently contraindicated in Hemiplegic Migraine treatment because they can narrow blood vessels and has concerns about stroke. Generally, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID), narcotic analgesics and antiemetics are prescribed to relieve the migraine.
Preventive
The genes for FHM are found in chromosomes 1 and 19, the calcium channel. The defective calcium channel doesn’t open and close properly. As such, it can’t control the quantity of calcium entering and leaving the cell. Calcium channel blockers are prescribed to inhibit the attack of FHM.
It is recommended that people with Hemiplegic Migraines wear a medical identification as an attack may cause impaired consciousness and inability to communicate. This will ensure that speedy and proper emergency remedy will be administered to the patient.
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