HeadWise

Lindsay Weitzel, PhD and headache specialist Susan Hutchinson, MD explore everything you need to know about menstrual migraine. From understanding hormonal triggers to affordable treatment strategies like anti-inflammatories and magnesium, they share expert insights to help you take control. Whether you experience migraine attacks only during your period or throughout the month, this episode offers advice to manage and prevent them.

In this episode of HeadWise, Lindsay Weitzel, PhD, sits down with headache specialist Susan Hutchinson, MD, to discuss managing migraine during pregnancy. Learn about safe treatments, medication options, and strategies to ensure both you and your baby stay healthy.

Dr. Dawn Buse is a clinical professor of neurology and a psychologist specializing in migraine and chronic illness. She discusses the unique challenges teens face during puberty, particularly when coping with migraines. Topics include strategies for managing migraines in school and social settings, the emotional toll and feelings of isolation teens may experience, and the vital role of supportive peer networks. Additionally, Dr. Buse emphasizes the importance of parents fostering strong social bonds and collaborating with healthcare professionals to support their children.

Raising a child with migraine can be challenging, but you’re not alone. In this episode of HeadWise, Lindsay Weitzel,PhD sits down with Dr. Maya Marzouk, a psychologist specializing in headache care, to discuss practical strategies for supporting children living with migraine. Learn how to balance school, social activities, and self-care while addressing your child’s emotional needs. Dr. Marzouk also shares: How anxiety and depression intersect with migraine in children. The importance of building a “fun toolkit” for tough migraine days. Sleep tips, distraction techniques, and how to advocate for your child at school.

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.