How Finding A Migraine Community Can Be Empowering

"Migraine is an "invisible illness," which means you can look totally fine on the outside while dealing with symptoms that make it nearly impossible to think clearly, see straight, or tolerate light and noise. And despite how often it's dismissed as "just a headache,", migraine is actually a chronic neurological disease - one that affects how the brain processes pain and sensory information, says Dr. Zarmina Mufti, a neurologist, headache specialist, and migraine educator who regularly shares educational content about living with migraine on social media."

""Unlike tension or sinus headaches, migraine involves real changes in brain function and sensory processing," Mufti explains. "That's why symptoms often go far beyond head pain and can include light sensitivity, nausea, and cognitive impairment." In fact, Mufti reminds us, migraine is the second leading cause of disability worldwide, and the leading cause of disability in women. Because a migraine is both serious and invisible, it can feel incredibly isolating."

"When the people around you can't see your pain or don't fully understand it, it's easy to feel alone in your experience. That's where community comes in. For many people living with migraines, finding others who truly get it can be a turning point - not just for coping, but for feeling empowered. Here are three ways finding a migraine community can make a real difference."

Migraine is an invisible illness that can leave people appearing fine while causing severe cognitive, visual, and sensory intolerance. Migraines are a chronic neurological disease that alter how the brain processes pain and sensory information. Symptoms commonly include intense head pain, light sensitivity, nausea, and cognitive impairment, and they often extend beyond typical headaches. Migraine ranks as the second leading cause of disability worldwide and the leading cause of disability among women. The invisibility of migraine contributes to social isolation when others cannot perceive or understand the pain. Peer communities and support groups provide understanding, shared experiences, coping strategies, and empowerment for people living with migraine.

Read at Bustle