Learn / Understanding Migraine
Section 1
Understanding Migraine
What migraine is, what happens in the brain, the different types, and why it deserves to be taken seriously.
10 articles
The basics
What migraine really is
Migraine is a brain disorder of how sensory information is processed, not simply a bad headache.
01 · 5 min read
The four phases of a migraine attack
An attack often begins a day or two before the pain, and its effects can linger after it ends.
02 · 4 min read
Types of migraine
With or without aura, episodic or chronic, plus vestibular, menstrual, hemiplegic and other forms.
03 · 5 min read
Migraine by the numbers
How common migraine is, how much it affects lives, and how often it goes under-treated.
04 · 4 min read
Inside the migraine brain
What happens in the brain during migraine
A plain-language tour of the trigeminal nerve, CGRP, the brainstem, the hypothalamus and sensitization.
05 · 6 min read
Why some brains are more sensitive
Genes set the stage, but nutrition, energy metabolism and environment shape how migraine behaves.
06 · 4 min read
Conditions that often travel with migraine
Dizziness, fainting and POTS, sleep problems, mood, neck and jaw pain, concussion and heart health.
07 · 5 min read
When migraine becomes chronic
How episodic migraine can progress, and why too much rescue medication can make headaches worse.
08 · 5 min read
Getting the right help
Being taken seriously: stigma and getting help
Why migraine is often minimized, and how to get the care and support you deserve.
09 · 3 min read
When a headache needs urgent care
Warning signs that mean you should seek emergency medical care right away.
10 · 2 min read
Keep exploring
Common Stressors
The lifestyle, nutritional, hormonal, musculoskeletal and neurological factors that fill the migraine bucket.
The Mastering Migraine Approach
Dr. Harcourt’s four-pillar approach to care: nutritional, hormonal, musculoskeletal and neurological, built on a foundation of lifestyle.
Research library
Every study, review and guideline cited in the Mastering Migraine courses.
Mastering Migraine is an educational resource and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Always talk with your own doctor before changing medications, starting supplements, or beginning a new treatment.
