Migraine Heroes | Chronic Migraine, Hemiplegic Migraine, Migraine with aura, Vestibular Migraine

Diane Ducarme

Are you doing everything right—avoiding triggers, taking meds—yet still waking up with migraines that steal your days? You’re not alone, and you’re not broken. The Migraine Heroes Podcast is your lifeline to real, lasting relief beyond pills, guesswork, and frustration. Hosted by Diane Ducarme, who helped over 500 women finally reclaim their lives, this podcast dives into the real reasons behind your migraine symptoms—blending brain-based science with the natural healing wisdom of Eastern medicine. It's designed for chronic migraine sufferers like you, in quest for real answers. You will: - Learn how to use brain-location insights to decode your symptoms - Discover functional food strategies to restore your nervous system - Hear inspiring real-life stories from migraine heroes who found freedom. Tune in every Monday and Wednesday and tap into a fan-favorite episode now and start your journey to natural healing—because your body already holds the answers.

  1. 4d ago

    Bloating and Migraine: Coincidence or Clue?

    What if your bloating isn’t separate from your migraine—but part of the same pattern? In this episode of Migraine Heroes Podcast, host Diane Ducarme explores the connection between digestive symptoms and migraine, and why the answer may go far beyond simply blaming certain foods. You’ll learn: 💡 Why bloating and migraine may show up together 💡 How your nervous system, digestion, hormones, and migraine pathways may be connected 💡 How to tell whether bloating is random, treatment-related, or a useful clue in your migraine pattern This episode will help you look at bloating differently—not as an isolated symptom, but as another signal your body may be giving you. 🎧 New episodes every Monday and Wednesday 🔗 Discover our work on migraineheroes.com References: Gut–Brain Axis and Migraine Headache: A Comprehensive Review (Arzani et al., 2020): This review explores how gut microbiota, inflammation, and gut–brain signaling may influence migraine. Read more here.Increased Prevalence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Migraine Patients (Wongtrakul et al., 2022): This meta-analysis found that IBS is more common among people with migraine. Read more here.Migraine and Gastroparesis (Arca et al., 2022): This review examines the overlap between migraine, delayed gastric emptying, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Read more here. Role of Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide on the Gastrointestinal Symptoms of Migraine (Ailani et al., 2022): This review explores how CGRP may connect migraine with gastrointestinal symptoms and disorders. Read more hereGastrointestinal Motility Before and After CGRP-Targeted Treatment (Kudrow et al., 2022): This trial examines gastrointestinal changes after treatment with erenumab or galcanezumab. Read more here AGA Clinical Practice Update on Belching, Abdominal Bloating, and Distention (Moshiree et al., 2023): This expert review provides guidance on evaluating and managing common gastrointestinal symptoms. Read more here The Neurobiology of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Mayer, Ryu, & Bhatt, 2023): This review explains IBS through interactions between the brain, gut, microbiome, immune system, and nervous system. Read more hereThe Brain, the Eating Plate, and the Gut Microbiome: Partners in Migraine Pathogenesis (Gazerani et al., 2024): This review explores connections between diet, the gut microbiome, and migraine mechanisms. Read more here The Association Between Migraine and Gut Microbiota: A Systematic Review (Gorenshtein et al., 2025): This review examines evidence of differences in gut microbiota among people with migraine. Read more hereMigraine and the Gut–Brain Axis—The Role of Microbiome-Targeted Biotics (Kozák et al., 2026): This review explores probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics in relation to the gut–brain axis and migraine. Read more here Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for providing medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. For women, men, and children who suffer from migraine disease, Migraine Heroes is your go-to resource for understanding, managing, and overcoming migraine attacks. We cover all types of migraines and related headaches, including primary and secondary migraines, chronic migraines, and cluster migraines. We dive deep into the complexities of migraine with aura and migraine without aura, as well as rarer forms like hemiplegic migraine, retinal migraine, and acephalgic migraine (silent migraine). Our discussions also extend to cervicogenic headaches, ice pick headaches, and pressure headaches, which often mimic migraine or contribute to overall migraine burden.

  2. Aug 12

    From Episodic to Chronic Migraine: The 8 Quiet Signs Your Pattern Is Changing

    What if your migraine pattern is becoming more frequent before you even realize it? In this episode of Migraine Heroes Podcast, host Diane Ducarme explores eight subtle signs that episodic migraine may be moving toward a more chronic pattern—from mild headache days and longer recovery periods to increasing sensitivity and more frequent medication use. You’ll discover: 💡 How to recognize the early signs that your migraine pattern may be changing 💡 Why mild symptoms and recovery days can reveal more than severe attacks alone 💡 How simple tracking can help you understand your pattern and seek support earlier Recognizing these changes is not about creating fear. It is about noticing what your body is communicating before migraine begins taking up even more space in your life. 🎧 New episodes every Monday and Wednesday 🔗 Discover our work on migraineheroes.com References: Chronic Migraine — International Classification of Headache Disorders, Third Edition (International Headache Society, 2018): These criteria define chronic migraine by headache and migraine-day frequency. Read more here. Rates and Risk Factors for Migraine Progression Using Multiple Definitions of Progression (Lipton et al., 2025): This study examines migraine progression through headache frequency and disability. Read more here.Migraine Progression: A Systematic Review (Buse et al., 2019): This review summarizes factors linked to progression from episodic to chronic migraine. Read more here.Risk Factors for Migraine Disease Progression (Lipton et al., 2023): This review identifies modifiable and non-modifiable factors associated with worsening migraine. Read more here.Incidence and Predictors for Chronicity of Headache in Patients With Episodic Migraine (Katsarava et al., 2004): This study links frequent headache and medication overuse with greater chronicity risk. Read more here.Neuroimmune Interactions in the Development and Chronification of Migraine Headache (Zhang et al., 2024): This review explores how immune and nerve-cell interactions may promote persistent migraine. Read more here.Comorbid Pain and Migraine Chronicity (Scher et al., 2017): This study links pain elsewhere in the body with migraine onset and persistence. Read more here.Identifying Cutaneous Allodynia in Chronic Migraine Using a Practical Clinical Method (Ashkenazi et al., 2007): This study presents a simple method for detecting touch sensitivity in chronic migraine. Read more here.Human Assumed Central Sensitization in Interictal Migraine (Cnockaert et al., 2026): This review finds evidence of increased pain sensitivity between migraine attacks. Read more here.The American Headache Society Consensus Statement: Integrating New Migraine Treatments (Ailani et al., 2021): This statement provides guidance on newer acute and preventive migraine treatments. Read more here.CGRP-Targeting Therapies Are a First-Line Option for Migraine Prevention (Charles et al., 2024): This statement supports CGRP therapies as first-line preventive options. Read more here.Hallmarks of Headache Disorders: Part Five—Secondary Headaches (García-Azorín et al., 2026): This review summarizes causes and warning features of secondary headache disorders. Read more here. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for providing medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. For women, men, and children who suffer from migraine disease, Migraine Heroes is your go-to resource for understanding, managing, and overcoming migraine attacks. We cover all types of migraines and related headaches, including primary and secondary migraines, chronic migraines, and cluster migraines. We dive deep into the complexities of migraine with aura and migraine without aura, as well as rarer forms like hemiplegic migraine, retinal migraine, and acephalgic migraine (silent migraine). Our discussions also extend to cervicogenic headaches, ice pick headaches, and pressure headaches, which often mimic migraine or contribute to overall migraine burden.

  3. Aug 10

    When You Can’t Find the Words: Migraine, Brain Fog, and Language Aura

    Have you ever known exactly what you wanted to say, but suddenly could not find the words? In this episode of Migraine Heroes Podcast, host Diane Ducarme explores why migraine can disrupt language, memory, and mental clarity. We look at the difference between common migraine brain fog and a possible speech or language aura, including the warning signs that should never be ignored. You’ll discover: 🧠 Why familiar words can suddenly feel unreachable during a migraine 🧠 How to distinguish cognitive slowing and brain fog from a possible language aura 🧠 When sudden speech or language changes require immediate medical attention This episode will help you better understand what may be happening in your brain and respond with greater clarity rather than fear. 🎧 New episodes every Monday and Wednesday 🔗 Discover our work on migraineheroes.com References: Clinical Features of Migraine With Aura: A REFORM Study (Thomsen et al., 2024): This study describes the frequency, duration, and progression of different migraine aura symptoms. Read more here. Underestimated Phenomena: Higher Cortical Dysfunctions During Migraine Aura (Petrusic et al., 2013): This study shows that language, memory, recognition, and movement-planning difficulties may occur during aura. Read more here.Cognitive Dysfunction During Migraine Attacks: A Study on Migraine Without Aura (Gil-Gouveia et al., 2015): This study examines temporary cognitive difficulties during migraine attacks without aura. Read more here.Cognitive Assessment During the Phases of a Spontaneous Migraine (Ray et al., 2024): This study tracks cognitive performance before, during, and after spontaneous migraine attacks. Read more here. Mapping the Migraine: Intracranial Recording of Cortical Spreading Depression in Migraine With Aura (McLeod et al., 2025): This case report directly recorded cortical spreading depression during a migraine aura. Read more here.Stroke Symptoms and Warning Signs (American Stroke Association): This guide explains the B.E. F.A.S.T. warning signs that require immediate emergency attention. Read more here.Migraine With Aura (International Headache Society): These criteria define migraine aura and its visual, sensory, language, motor, brainstem, and retinal symptoms. Read more here. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for providing medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. For women, men, and children who suffer from migraine disease, Migraine Heroes is your go-to resource for understanding, managing, and overcoming migraine attacks. We cover all types of migraines and related headaches, including primary and secondary migraines, chronic migraines, and cluster migraines. We dive deep into the complexities of migraine with aura and migraine without aura, as well as rarer forms like hemiplegic migraine, retinal migraine, and acephalgic migraine (silent migraine). Our discussions also extend to cervicogenic headaches, ice pick headaches, and pressure headaches, which often mimic migraine or contribute to overall migraine burden.

  4. Aug 5

    9 Ways to Reduce Screen Migraines Without Unplugging

    Screens are often unavoidable but that doesn’t mean your eyes and brain have to stay overwhelmed all day. In this episode of Migraine Heroes Podcast, host Diane Ducarme shares nine realistic ways to make computers, phones, and tablets easier on a migraine-sensitive nervous system—without giving up work, communication, or productivity. You’ll learn: 💻 How simple screen adjustments can reduce visual strain and sensory overload 💻 How dark mode, reduced motion, clearer text, and better positioning can create a calmer digital environment 💻 How voice tools, movement, and screen-free transitions can give your brain regular opportunities to recover You don’t need to unplug completely. Small changes can help you use technology in a way that asks less of your eyes and nervous system. 🎧 New episodes every Monday and Wednesday 🔗 Discover our work on migraineheroes.com References: Current Understanding of Photophobia, Visual Networks and Headaches (Noseda et al., 2018): This review explains how visual and pain networks contribute to photophobia and headache. Read more here.Migraine and Light: A Narrative Review (Artemenko et al., 2022): This review examines how light can trigger discomfort and intensify migraine symptoms. Read more here. Digital Eye Strain: Prevalence, Measurement and Amelioration (Sheppard & Wolffsohn, 2018): This review covers the symptoms, causes, assessment, and management of digital eye strain. Read more here.Detection and Discrimination of Flicker Contrast in Migraine (Karanovic et al., 2011): This study examines how people with migraine detect flicker and experience visual discomfort. Read more here. Blink Rate, Incomplete Blinks and Computer Vision Syndrome (Portello et al., 2013): This study links incomplete blinking during computer use with increased eye discomfort. Read more here. Evening Use of Light-Emitting eReaders Negatively Affects Sleep, Circadian Timing, and Next-Morning Alertness (Chang et al., 2015): Evening eReader use delayed sleep and reduced next-morning alertness compared with printed books. Read more here.Recommendations for Daytime, Evening, and Nighttime Indoor Light Exposure (Brown et al., 2022): This consensus paper recommends light levels that support healthy sleep, alertness, and circadian rhythms. Read more here.Blue-Light Filtering Spectacle Lenses for Visual Performance, Sleep, and Macular Health in Adults (Singh et al., 2023): This review found limited evidence that blue-light-filtering lenses improve eye strain, sleep, or visual performance. Read more here.Animation From Interactions and Reduced Motion (World Wide Web Consortium): These accessibility resources explain how websites can limit nonessential animation for motion-sensitive users. Read more here.Using the Prefers-Reduced-Motion Query to Prevent Motion (World Wide Web Consortium): This guide shows how websites can respond to reduced-motion settings. Read more here.How Sleep Works: Sleep Phases and Stages (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute): This guide explains REM and non-REM sleep and how sleep cycles repeat throughout the night. Read more here. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for providing medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. For women, men, and children who suffer from migraine disease, Migraine Heroes is your go-to resource for understanding, managing, and overcoming migraine attacks. We cover all types of migraines and related headaches, including primary and secondary migraines, chronic migraines, and cluster migraines. We dive deep into the complexities of migraine with aura and migraine without aura, as well as rarer forms like hemiplegic migraine, retinal migraine, and acephalgic migraine (silent migraine). Our discussions also extend to cervicogenic headaches, ice pick headaches, and pressure headaches, which often mimic migraine or contribute to overall migraine burden.

  5. Aug 3

    Why You Wake Up With a Migraine: 5 Overnight Triggers You May Be Missing

    Have you ever gone to bed feeling fine, only to wake up with a migraine already in progress? In this episode of Migraine Heroes Podcast, host Diane Ducarme explores five hidden overnight factors that may contribute to morning migraine attacks—including disrupted sleep, breathing changes, jaw tension, fasting, and caffeine or medication patterns. You’ll discover: 🌙 Why migraine attacks can begin while you sleep 🌙 How five common overnight triggers may contribute to morning pain 🌙 What the timing and symptoms of your migraine may reveal about its cause Understanding what happens overnight can help you identify patterns, support your body more effectively, and start your day with fewer surprises. 🎧 New episodes every Monday and Wednesday 🔗 Discover our work on migraineheroes.com References: Migraine and Sleep Disorders: A Systematic Review (Tiseo et al., 2020): This review examines the two-way relationship between migraine and common sleep disorders. Read more here.Insufficient Sleep May Alter Cortical Excitability Near the Migraine Attack (Mykland et al., 2023): This study explores how insufficient sleep may change brain excitability around a migraine attack. Read more here: Circadian Features of Cluster Headache and Migraine (Benkli et al., 2023): This review examines daily and seasonal headache patterns and their links to the circadian clock. Read more here.Association Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Migraine (Chen et al., 2025): This cohort study found a higher risk of migraine among people with obstructive sleep apnea. Read more here.Improvement of Morning Headache in Adults With Obstructive Sleep Apnea After Positive Airway Pressure Therapy (Seo et al., 2023): Morning headaches improved after three months of positive airway pressure therapy. Read more here.Association Between Primary Headache and Bruxism (Réus et al., 2021): This review evaluates the relationship between bruxism and primary headache disorders. Read more here.Fasting and Headache (Ebbert & Natbony, 2025): This review explores how fasting and missed meals may contribute to headache and migraine. Read more here.Dehydration and Headache (Arca & Halker Singh, 2021): This review examines how dehydration may contribute to headache and whether hydration can help. Read more here.The Impact of Caffeine Consumption on Migraine (Makhlouf et al., 2026): This review examines how caffeine intake, withdrawal, and overuse may affect migraine. Read more here.Are Some Patient-Perceived Migraine Triggers Simply Early Manifestations of the Attack? (Karsan et al., 2021): This study suggests that some perceived triggers may actually be early migraine symptoms. Read more here.Medication Overuse Headache (Nguyen, Dergalust & Nanda, 2025): This review explains how frequent use of acute medication can worsen headache patterns. Read more here. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for providing medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. For women, men, and children who suffer from migraine disease, Migraine Heroes is your go-to resource for understanding, managing, and overcoming migraine attacks. We cover all types of migraines and related headaches, including primary and secondary migraines, chronic migraines, and cluster migraines. We dive deep into the complexities of migraine with aura and migraine without aura, as well as rarer forms like hemiplegic migraine, retinal migraine, and acephalgic migraine (silent migraine). Our discussions also extend to cervicogenic headaches, ice pick headaches, and pressure headaches, which often mimic migraine or contribute to overall migraine burden.

  6. Jul 29

    Why Low Blood Pressure Could Be Contributing to Your Migraines

    Could low blood pressure be quietly lowering your migraine threshold? In this episode of Migraine Heroes Podcast, host Diane Ducarme explores how reduced circulation, dizziness, fatigue, and brain fog may all be part of the same migraine picture. You’ll learn why “normal” blood pressure does not always mean your body is getting the steady support it needs. You’ll discover: 💡 Why low blood pressure can set the stage for a migraine attack 💡 How to spot signs that poor circulation may be affecting your head, energy, and focus 💡 One simple at-home way to better understand your monthly blood balance This episode helps you listen to your body’s quieter signals, so you can support your circulation, energy, and migraine resilience with more clarity. 🎧 New episodes every Monday and Wednesday 🔗 Discover our work on migraineheroes.com References: Migraine and Cardiovascular Disease: What Cardiologists Should Know (Sacco & Kurth, 2023): This review summarizes the relationship between migraine and cardiovascular disease, highlighting shared vascular mechanisms and the increased risk of stroke and other cardiovascular events in some migraine patients. Read more here.Trajectory of Blood Pressure After Initiating Anti-Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide Treatment in Migraine Patients (de Vries Lentsch et al., 2023): This study examines changes in blood pressure following the initiation of CGRP-targeting migraine therapies, contributing to the understanding of their cardiovascular safety profile. Read more here.Blood Pressure and Headache Occurrence (Plinta et al.): This research explores the observed inverse relationship between blood pressure and headache prevalence, suggesting that individuals with higher blood pressure may report headaches less frequently than expected. Read more here.Headache Is Associated with Low Systolic Blood Pressure and Psychosocial Problems in Adolescents (Córdova et al., 2021): This study found that adolescents with headaches were more likely to have lower systolic blood pressure and greater psychosocial challenges, highlighting potential links between vascular and psychological factors. Read more here.Vascular Regulation and Migraine Mechanisms (Kurth, Tzourio, et al.): This body of research investigates how vascular function and regulation may contribute to migraine pathophysiology, helping clarify the connection between migraine and cardiovascular health. Read more here. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for providing medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. For women, men, and children who suffer from migraine disease, Migraine Heroes is your go-to resource for understanding, managing, and overcoming migraine attacks. We cover all types of migraines and related headaches, including primary and secondary migraines, chronic migraines, and cluster migraines. We dive deep into the complexities of migraine with aura and migraine without aura, as well as rarer forms like hemiplegic migraine, retinal migraine, and acephalgic migraine (silent migraine). Our discussions also extend to cervicogenic headaches, ice pick headaches, and pressure headaches, which often mimic migraine or contribute to overall migraine burden.

  7. Jul 27

    Migraine revealed at Menopause: Samantha's Journey

    The Symptoms Her Doctors Kept Missing For years, Samantha was told her headaches simply weren't bad enough to be migraines, until menopause changed everything. She opens up about the attack that put her on the floor, the diagnosis that finally had a name, and the unexpected thing she learned about herself along the way. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for providing medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. For women, men, and children who suffer from migraine disease, Migraine Heroes is your go-to resource for understanding, managing, and overcoming migraine attacks. We cover all types of migraines and related headaches, including primary and secondary migraines, chronic migraines, and cluster migraines. We dive deep into the complexities of migraine with aura and migraine without aura, as well as rarer forms like hemiplegic migraine, retinal migraine, and acephalgic migraine (silent migraine). Our discussions also extend to cervicogenic headaches, ice pick headaches, and pressure headaches, which often mimic migraine or contribute to overall migraine burden.

  8. Jul 22

    When Even a Ponytail Hurts: The Hidden Connection Between Scalp Pain and Migraine

    Why does something as small as brushing your hair or tying a ponytail suddenly feel painful? In this episode of Migraine Heroes Podcast, host Diane Ducarme explores the hidden link between scalp sensitivity and migraine — and why this pain is not “in your head,” but often a sign of an overwhelmed nervous system. You’ll discover: 💡 Why your scalp can become so sensitive that even gentle touch feels unbearable 💡 How migraine can make normal sensations painful through central sensitization 💡 One simple at-home practice to help calm your nervous system and ease scalp overwhelm This episode helps you understand what your body is trying to tell you — so you can respond with more gentleness, awareness, and support. 🎧 New episodes every Monday and Wednesday 🔗 Discover our work on migraineheroes.com References: The Development of Cutaneous Allodynia During a Migraine Attack (Burstein, Cutrer, & Yarnitsky, 2000): This study explains how allodynia can develop during a migraine attack through progressive sensitization of pain pathways. Read more here.Prevalence and Characteristics of Allodynia in Headache Sufferers (Bigal et al., 2008): This population study found that allodynia is common in migraine and is linked with greater headache frequency, severity, and disability. Read more here.Allodynia in Migraine (Lovati et al., 209): This paper explores how allodynia develops in migraine, linking it to central sensitization and migraine progression.. Read more here.Cutaneous Allodynia in Migraine: A Narrative Review (Mínguez-Olaondo et al., 2022): This review summarizes the mechanisms, risk factors, diagnosis, and clinical importance of cutaneous allodynia in migraine. Read more here. An Association Between Migraine and Cutaneous Allodynia (Burstein et al., 2000): This study showed that many people with migraine experience painful sensitivity to normally non-painful touch during attacks. Read more here. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for providing medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. For women, men, and children who suffer from migraine disease, Migraine Heroes is your go-to resource for understanding, managing, and overcoming migraine attacks. We cover all types of migraines and related headaches, including primary and secondary migraines, chronic migraines, and cluster migraines. We dive deep into the complexities of migraine with aura and migraine without aura, as well as rarer forms like hemiplegic migraine, retinal migraine, and acephalgic migraine (silent migraine). Our discussions also extend to cervicogenic headaches, ice pick headaches, and pressure headaches, which often mimic migraine or contribute to overall migraine burden.

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Are you doing everything right—avoiding triggers, taking meds—yet still waking up with migraines that steal your days? You’re not alone, and you’re not broken. The Migraine Heroes Podcast is your lifeline to real, lasting relief beyond pills, guesswork, and frustration. Hosted by Diane Ducarme, who helped over 500 women finally reclaim their lives, this podcast dives into the real reasons behind your migraine symptoms—blending brain-based science with the natural healing wisdom of Eastern medicine. It's designed for chronic migraine sufferers like you, in quest for real answers. You will: - Learn how to use brain-location insights to decode your symptoms - Discover functional food strategies to restore your nervous system - Hear inspiring real-life stories from migraine heroes who found freedom. Tune in every Monday and Wednesday and tap into a fan-favorite episode now and start your journey to natural healing—because your body already holds the answers.

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