Strategies for Migraine Relief from a Neurologist

If you think migraines are just headaches, think again. In this episode of the Get Back to Your Life® podcast, neurologist Dr. Ella Akkerman breaks down the debilitating nature of migraines and why it’s time we take them seriously.

“Migraines are not just bad headaches. They’re disabling, life-changing. And so do not sit in silence and suffer. Seek help,” says Dr. Akkerman.

In this podcast, you’ll learn:

• What migraines really feel like, and why they’re so often misunderstood
• Common triggers (like stress, hormones, sleep disruptions, and more)
• Red flags that require urgent medical attention
• The latest in migraine treatments
• How to recognize early warning signs
• Medications, devices, and lifestyle strategies that work

The Reality of Living with Migraines

Over 1 billion people worldwide suffer from migraines, and yet they remain one of the most misunderstood neurological conditions. For some, they are episodic. For others, they’re chronic, occurring more than 15 days a month. “If you’re human and you have a brain, you can have a migraine,” Dr. Akkerman explains.

She shares her personal experience, too. “I’m lucky in the way that [migraines] don’t run my life. But my daughter, who is only 10, is already starting to have migraines.”

It’s More Than Just a Headache

Migraines can present with a wide range of symptoms beyond head pain: blurred vision, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and even slurred speech. “Your brain becomes really irritable and annoyed,” says Dr. Akkerman. “Everything seems too bright or too loud. You just want to be alone in your own little quiet space.”

She emphasizes how confusing this can be, especially for children or new sufferers. “You can think, ‘Am I dying? Do I have cancer?’ It’s very scary.”

Understanding the Triggers and Causes of Migraines

While the exact cause of migraines remains unclear, Dr. Akkerman supports the theory that they start in deep brain structures like the hypothalamus, which regulates hormones and circadian rhythms. She often says to make your amygdala happy, because your brain is responsible for regulating pain.

Other triggers include:

• Stress
• Lack of sleep
• Dehydration
• Dietary factors
• Environmental changes

That’s why hormonal changes, stress, sleep disruption, weather shifts, diet, and dehydration can all set off attacks. “It’s genetic. You either have a brain of migraine or you don’t,” Dr. Akkerman notes, adding that women are three times more likely to suffer because estrogen is “very irritating in terms of provoking migraines.” Read more here on how to prevent hormone-related migraines.

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When It’s Time to Seek Help

Many patients delay seeking help because of societal stigma and myths. “You can’t see migraines. You have to believe what a person is experiencing,” Dr. Akkerman says. The invisibility of symptoms often leads to invalidation, which can lead to experiencing medical gaslighting.

So when should you call for help?

“If you’ve never had anything like this before, it’s the worst headache of your life, and it comes on in seconds, that’s a 911.”

Otherwise, those with recurring symptoms should not wait. “The longer you wait to get the right treatment, the more likely your migraines will become chronic or intractable.”

How to Treat Headaches and Migraines

Dr. Akkerman emphasizes that there are effective treatments available, many of which don’t require prescriptions.

Lifestyle Foundations

• Consistent sleep schedule
• Stress management
• Hydration (6–8 glasses of water daily)
• Regular nutritious meals
• Exercise: “20–30 minutes, three times a week, can make a real difference.”

Over-the-Counter Relief

NSAIDs like ibuprofen or even Tylenol can be effective if taken early. “Majority of people actually respond pretty well to these,” she says. In fact, this is how Dr. Akkerman has regulated her migraines.

Prescription and Advanced Therapies

For those with persistent or severe migraines, CGRP inhibitors, a newer class of medication, can prevent and treat attacks. “You inject them once a month under the skin and you’re good to go.”

There are also options for:

• Pregnant women
• People with heart issues
• Those with chronic pain
• Patients seeking non-medication solutions

“Patients deserve to get the right treatment right away,” urges Dr. Akkerman.

You’re Not Alone, and There Are Solutions

Dr. Akkerman’s passion for migraine treatment is rooted in patient empowerment. “When people are educated, they feel more optimistic and get their life back. You can prevent and abort migraines in a meaningful way.”

With today’s therapies, most people can reclaim control, whether that means continuing work, easier parenting, or simply waking up without fear. If migraines rule your days, start with your neurologist, explore options, and remember: effective relief is possible.

“Help is out there. Doctors are out there who can help you live your best and healthy life.”