HeadWise

Are your migraine attacks triggered by hormonal changes like your menstrual cycle or menopause? In this episode of HeadWise, Dr. Lindsay Weitzel sits down with Dr. Amelia Barrett, a board-certified neurologist and creator of the Migraine Relief Code, to explore non-hormonal strategies for managing hormonally-triggered migraine. Learn about: ✅ Dietary solutions, including soy ✅ How stress and DHEA levels impact hormonal migraines ✅ How using adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola may combat stress ✅ The role of heart rate variability in managing stress and migraine Tune in to learn how these small changes may make a big difference in managing your migraine triggers.

Deena Kuruvilla, a board-certified neurologist and headache specialist, dives into the enigmatic world of trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TACs). She unpacks the unique characteristics of these rare headache disorders, including their severe unilateral pain and relationship with the autonomic nervous system. The conversation sheds light on treatment options, from medication to oxygen therapy. Kuruvilla also clarifies common migraine misconceptions, stressing the importance of accurate diagnosis for effective relief.

Migraine and chronic illness can often lead to isolation and loneliness. Did you know that some people even experience feelings of shame and self-blame when isolated due to their illness? In this episode of HeadWise, host Lindsay Weitzel, PhD, talks with Clinical Health Psychologist Melissa Geraghty, PsyD, about how to avoid pain-related isolation and loneliness, and the negative effects they can have on mental health. Dr. Geraghty offers insights into how people living with migraine can stay connected, manage feelings of shame, and practice self-compassion during difficult times. Whether you’re an extrovert or introvert, this episode provides valuable strategies to maintain social connections while managing chronic pain.

Dr. Amelia Scott Barrett, a board-certified neurologist and creator of the Migraine Relief Code course, shares valuable insights on managing migraines without medication. She discusses the power of magnesium, detailing its optimal forms and dosages for prevention. Dietary changes, especially increasing omega-3 intake, can dramatically reduce headache days. Additionally, Dr. Barrett emphasizes the importance of quality sleep and offers practical tips for establishing a healthy sleep routine, making it easier to tackle migraines holistically.

Join Dr. Susan Hutchinson, a headache specialist and founder of the Orange County Migraine and Headache Center, as she dives into groundbreaking research on migraines and cluster headaches. Discover how treatment preferences vary for pediatric patients and the crucial role of involving them in decisions. Learn about the debilitating effects of migraine aura on daily life and why many sufferers don’t seek help. Plus, explore treatment strategies for severe migraines, including new insights into neck pain and effective interventions for cluster headaches.

We’ve hit 200 episodes! To celebrate this milestone, we’re thrilled to welcome the amazing Dr. Dawn Buse back to the podcast. In this special episode, Dr. Buse shares what she believes are the top three things all women living with migraine should know. From understanding that migraine is a genetic neurologic disease (and not your fault), to the importance of open communication with your doctor, and always thinking about prevention, this episode is full of invaluable advice. Tune in for an empowering conversation packed with insights on how to better manage your migraine journey.

Why are people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and other connective tissue disorders at greater risk for migraine and other headaches disorders? In this episode, Dr. Lindsay Weitzel and Dr. Vincent Martin dive deep into the link between EDS and chronic headache, explaining how EDS affects the body and increases headache frequency and severity. Learn whether EDS is diagnosed clinically or through genetic testing and how healthcare providers that can help manage EDS and headache. Watch the full episode for expert insights on treating headaches in EDS patients.

Approximately 40 million people or one in four households includes someone with migraine disease, and 85% of people with the disease are women. Despite the prevalence of the disease, lack of education and awareness often leads to stigma and bias, especially in the workplace. Dr. Lindsay Burgarello Weitzel is joined by Sarah Shepard, Executive Director of Migraine at Work to discuss the challenges of navigating #migraine disease in the workplace.

In this week's episode of HeadWise, Dr. Lindsay Weitzel, PhD, sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Seng, an expert in headache psychology, to explore Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Migraine (MBCT-M). Discover how mindfulness can significantly reduce migraine-related disability and improve your quality of life! Tune in to learn about: The basics of MBCT-M and how it differs from other therapies, real-world applications of mindfulness for chronic pain, and cognitive tools that can help your migraine experience.

In this episode of Headwise host Lindsay Weitzel, PhD interviews author and Professor of Sociology Joanna Kempner, PhD about her newly released book: Psychedelic Outlaws: The Movement Revolutionizing Modern Medicine. Listen in as Dr. Kempner explains what people with all sorts of pain and invisible illness can learn from her account of a group of patients with cluster headache who became their own "heroes" by developing medicine from psilocybin mushrooms and testing clinical grade protocols to relieve themselves and their families from excruciating pain.