Dr Raj Arora has issued a vital health alert directed at anyone who experiences migraines, urging immediate action and caution against self-diagnosis. The medical professional stressed that not every migraine presents identically, and consequently, not every purported solution is suitable for every individual.
Why Proper Diagnosis is Crucial
In a recent social media video, Dr Arora advised those struggling with the condition to consult a healthcare provider before investing in "supplements, gadgets and quick fixes" marketed as cures. "Before you add another item to your basket here's what you really need to know," she stated. "Not every migraine is the same, and not every 'solution' is right for you - sometimes the wrong product can even make things worse."
She acknowledged the prevalence of migraine-related content and hacks across social platforms but emphasised the importance of seeing the broader medical picture. "The bottom line is a migraine is a form of a headache," Dr Arora explained, adding that new onset migraines with unfamiliar symptoms, such as a persistent throbbing headache, warrant prompt attention.
Recognising When to Seek Help
"If it's consistent, you feel sick with it, you have an aura... or you feel like you are dizzy with it or you're vomiting with the headache - anything that is happening that is new, it's important you don't just put it down to a migraine," she continued. Dr Arora elaborated that migraines require accurate diagnosis, warning sufferers against self-assessment as there "could be something else going on."
She concluded with clear guidance: "If you've got headache symptoms, it's important you don't just put it down to a migraine. You should go and see your GP and get a formal diagnosis."
Patient Experiences and NHS Guidance
In response, one migraine sufferer shared: "My GP was amazing. As a migraine sufferer herself, she completely understood and put me on the right pathway for treatment." Another individual commented: "I agree, I suffer with them and been diagnosed with them, however most medication don't work on me. The only thing that zaps it is Nurofen and for the dizziness that comes with it I take vertigo tablets which stops the vomiting, I started getting them at 13. They are awful, sometimes you get no warning."
The NHS provides detailed information on migraines, noting they typically last between two hours and three days. Some symptoms, like extreme fatigue, can begin up to two days before the headache starts and may persist after it ends. Frequency varies greatly, with some experiencing migraines several times weekly and others rarely. Menstrual migraines are common, and many find symptoms improve with age.
When to Consult a GP
The NHS advises seeing a GP if:
- Your migraines are severe, worsening, or lasting longer than usual
- You have migraines more than once a week
- You find it difficult to control your migraines
- You regularly get migraines before or during your period
Seek an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 if, during a migraine:
- It lasts longer than 72 hours
- Aura symptoms persist for over an hour at a time
- You are pregnant or have recently given a baby
This comprehensive alert underscores the necessity of professional medical evaluation over reliance on unverified remedies, ensuring migraine sufferers receive appropriate and effective care tailored to their specific condition.
