Is it a Stroke or Hemiplegic Migraine?

I have had many women in our group discuss how concerned they have been, including myself, if they are having a stroke and having a hemiplegic migraine. Or if they are experiencing a stroke but not having a hemiplegic migraine. Both are very scary and there is a definite way to distinguish between the two.

The main difference between hemiplegic migraine and stroke is that the aura symptoms (visual, motor or sensory disturbances), of hemiplegic migraine come on gradually, whereas a stroke and its related symptoms will occur suddenly.

When a hemiplegic migraine is occurring, the aura symptoms will occur gradually and usually begin with some sort of visual symptom. Sensory symptoms, such as tingling or numbness will then follow the visual symptoms. These symptoms will always occur gradually, one at a time, and in sequence. However, with a stroke, all of the symptoms that are similar to those with hemiplegic migraine occur suddenly and simultaneously.

A stroke and hemiplegic migraine do have overlapping symptoms, including numbness or paralysis on one side of the body, communication difficulties, vision problems, headache, and dizziness. However, the symptoms of a stroke which do not occur with hemiplegic migraines include drooping of the mouth (especially when smiling), hallucinations, trouble breathing, seizures, and behavioral changes, such as agitation. The differentiating factor, therefore, is the sequence of the symptoms of hemiplegic migraine symptoms: visual, sensory, motor and language.

Since hemiplegic migraines can increase the risk of stroke, it is important to know the similarities and differences. Always seek immediate medical care when experiencing symptoms you are unsure about.