Breaking the Migraine Stigma: How to Advocate for Yourself at Work

Imagine you’re in the middle of a crucial work meeting when suddenly, a throbbing headache threatens to derail your productivity. This isn’t a rare occurrence for millions of people worldwide, however, it is a regular struggle. Migraines, a debilitating neurological condition, often clash with the demands of professional life, creating unique challenges that are rarely discussed. Prevalence and Impact of Migraines Migraines are more than just severe headaches; they are a complex neurological condition with a range of symptoms that can severely impact daily functioning. According to Dr. Dawn Buse, Clinical Professor of Neurology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City, fellow of the American Headache Society, and Board Member of the Headache Cooperative of the Pacific, approximately 18 percent of adult American women and six percent of adult men suffer from migraines, translating to about 12 percent of all adults. These statistics underscore the widespread nature of this condition. “It starts in childhood and increases during adolescence. An attack can last multiple days and has multiple phases, including the pre-headache phase with symptoms like cognitive impairment, neck pain, and fatigue,” Dr. Buse shares.  Phases and Symptoms of Migraines According to Dr. Buse, migraines typically progress through...