Symptom 12. Cognitive Difficulties: The Impact of Migraines on Mental Functioning
Imagine you’re mid-sentence and suddenly, words evade you. Or you walk into a room only to forget why you’re there. These instances of forgetfulness and mental fog are not mere accidents of a distracted mind but can be another manifestation of migraines.
Let’s paint a picture. You’re in the middle of a critical work presentation, your mind impeccably organized with facts and figures. Suddenly, you find yourself struggling with recollection, your train of thought interrupted. Or maybe you’re engaged in a riveting conversation, but your words are coming out slower, your responses delayed.
It’s not just about forgetfulness or slow responses. Migraines can make it difficult for you to concentrate, making you feel like you’re trying to think through a thick, confusing fog. Multitasking becomes an uphill task, and your cognitive agility might seem like it’s left the building.
These cognitive symptoms often add to the misery of a migraine. They can persist during the attack and may even linger afterward, making it hard for you to resume your normal activities. This disruption to mental function can affect your work, your studies, your relationships, and your overall quality of life.
Yet, amidst this unsettling experience, there’s a reminder of the profound ways migraines affect us. It’s not just about a headache but a constellation of symptoms that alter your bodily functions, right down to your cognitive processing. (12)
