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Migraines are not like other headaches, just ask someone who has had one. Comparing a migraine to a headache is like comparing a toy train to the super-train in Japan, there really isn’t any comparison. A migraine can be completely debilitating and so intense that sufferers will do almost anything to relieve the pain. Sufferers of migraines have done everything from banging their heads against walls, taking large doses of medications, essential oils, diet changes, activity changes, etc. The lists of things a migraine sufferer will do to stop or decrease the pain can be as lengthy as a child’s Christmas wish list. However, very few treatments really work to reduce the pain, and very little is actually known about the causes and treatment of migraines.
Migraines are one of the more prevalent claimed disabilities among Veterans. It is currently ranked 8thin most prevalent disabilities in new compensation claims. Studies suggest that approximately 36% of those returning from Iraq experience migraine type headaches. Another study showed that of those suffering from migraine type symptoms, about 22% showed symptoms of anxiety, 50% showed symptoms of depression, and almost 40% had symptoms of PTSD. The exact causes of migraines remain unknown, but there are links. Traumatic brain injuries such as exposure to explosives, extremely loud noises, and actual head injuries are leading factors in migraines. However, there are now links to exposures to chemicals such as burn pits and chemical solvents. There may also be secondary links such as the neck, eye, or back injuries, fibromyalgia, and mental health issues. There can also be other secondary issues from the migraines such as sleep disorders, chronic mental health issues such as depression. Detailed information on how migraines are rated can be found here.