Migraines potentially leading to hallucinations?

Migraines Can Trigger Hallucinations?

Migraines are a common neurological condition, often characterised by severe headaches and accompanying symptoms. However, some people may experience hallucinations during a migraine attack, which can be confusing and concerning.

Firstly, it's important to understand that visual auras, which are simple visual disturbances like flashes of light or zig-zagging lines, are distinct from visual hallucinations. The most common hallucinations during a migraine attack are visual hallucinations, such as seeing distorted shapes or flashes of light, as part of the aura phase. Auditory hallucinations, where a person hears sounds or voices that aren't there, are less frequent but can occur.

Visual hallucinations during migraines are primarily found in patients with familial hemiplegic migraine, a rare type of inherited migraine that causes weakness in one side of the body. These hallucinations are much more complex and include vivid images of people, animals, or objects that appear to actually exist. On the other hand, olfactory hallucinations, or phantosmias, are extremely rare, occurring in around 0.1% of adults with migraines. Patients often describe the odors as being specific and very unpleasant, with the most common aroma reported being a burning smell.

Researchers believe that abnormal activation of the neurons in the olfactory cortex causes olfactory hallucinations, while changes in blood flow to the auditory cortex and imbalances in the neurotransmitter serotonin may cause auditory hallucinations during migraines.

It's worth noting that unlike visual hallucinations, auditory hallucinations are not linked to auras. In fact, auditory hallucinations in migraine patients are more common in those with depression, but the reason for this is unknown.

If you're experiencing hallucinations during a migraine episode, it's crucial to seek medical attention. These hallucinations could be a sign of other serious medical conditions. Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing severe migraine symptoms, including neck stiffness, fever, trouble speaking, numbness, or a migraine headache that develops quickly.

In terms of treatment, options for auditory hallucinations during migraines include blood pressure-lowering medications, anti-seizure drugs, antidepressant drugs, botox injections, and pain-relieving medications.

Prevention is key when it comes to migraines. Identifying triggers can help prevent migraine attacks. Common triggers include certain foods, poor sleep, and stress. Keep a journal to track migraine symptoms and potential triggers, noting what you were doing before an episode, sleeping habits, diet, and stress levels in the days leading to an attack.

In conclusion, while hallucinations during migraines can be alarming, understanding the different types of hallucinations and their causes can help alleviate concerns. If you're experiencing hallucinations during a migraine, it's important to seek medical advice to rule out other possible causes and to discuss treatment options.