Episodes

  • It's the Cluster Headache Awareness Day, and Heads Up Podacst is back with a new episode. Tune in to this latest episode where our host Headache Specialist Dr Katy Munro, sits down with consultant neurologist and headache expert Dr Nick Silver from the Walton Centre UK.

    In this informative discussion, Dr Silver sheds light on the often misunderstood condition of cluster headaches. Delving into the nuances that differentiate them from migraine, they explore topics such as diagnosis, the profound impact these headaches have on individuals, and the prevalence within the population.Get valuable insights into effective acute and preventive treatments and management strategies for cluster headaches, empowering those who suffer and their loved ones with knowledge and hope.

    As a special bonus, don't miss our exclusive bonus track where you'll hear from someone who suffers from Cluster Headache. They share their personal journey, offering a poignant glimpse into the real-life impact of this disease. It's the voice of somone living with cluster headaches, giving a firsthand understanding of the challenges they face.

    For further resources and support, visit:
    - Ouch UK - Providing support and advocacy for those affected by cluster headaches.
    - The Brain Charity- Offering guidance and assistance to individuals living with neurological conditions.

    Don't miss Dr Silver's enlightening talk from the OUCH Summer conference: Link and his comprehensive overview of migraine booklet: Migraine Booklet

    **Disclaimer:**

    This podcast episode contains discussions about cluster headaches, including topics that may touch upon sensitive subjects such as mental health and suicide. While we strive to provide informative and supportive content, we acknowledge that these discussions may be triggering for some listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, we urge you to seek support from a qualified healthcare professional or your GP. For emergency call 999 helpline immediately. Your mental health and well-being are important, and help is available.

    Listener discretion is advised.

  • Heads Up Podcast brings to you Becky's story:

    Listen to the raw and unfiltered experience of someone living with cluster headaches.They share the daily challenges and profound impact this condition has on their life. Join us for a brief yet powerful insight into the reality of living with cluster headaches, giving voice to the struggles and hardships faced by those affected. Tune in for a moving account that sheds light on the human side of this often misunderstood condition.

    If you are diagnosed with migraine or cluster headache and would like to share your story on our podcast, email us on [email protected].

    WE ARE A CHARITY

    Please help us keep going in the following ways:

    Please donate to help us continue to release new episodes: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

    **Disclaimer:**

    This podcast episode contains discussions about cluster headaches, including topics that may touch upon sensitive subjects such as mental health and suicide. While we strive to provide informative and supportive content, we acknowledge that these discussions may be triggering for some listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, we urge you to seek support from a qualified healthcare professional or your GP. For emergency call 999 helpline immediately. Your mental health and well-being are important, and help is available.

    Listener discretion is advised.

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  • Delve into the intricate world of migraine science with Dr Katy Munro, Headache Specialist, and her esteemed guest, Dr Phil Holland, Reader in Neuroscience at King’s College London. In this episode ‘Migraine Science: What's Happening in the Brain? they embark on a fascinating journey through the complexities of migraine brain chemistry and pathways.

    From exploring the intersections of migraine with other pain areas like facial pain, neck, and shoulders, to busting common myths linking migraine with dementia, this episode delves deep into the cutting-edge treatments on the horizon.

    Tune in as they unravel the mysteries of the migraine brain and pave the way for new insights and advancements in understanding and treating this debilitating condition.

    If you have any questions/comments or any topics you would like us to cover in our future episodes email: [email protected].

    WE ARE A CHARITY

    Please help us keep going in the following ways:

    Please donate to help us continue to release new episodes: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

  • In this episode of Heads Up podcast, we unravel the connection between migraine and facial pain, where migraine can often manifest as debilitating facial discomfort. Join our host, Dr Katy Munro, a leading Headache Specialist, as she engages in a captivating conversation with the renowned Professor Tara Renton, an expert in oral surgery.

    Professor Renton, based at Kings College London and serving as an Honorary Consultant for both Kings College Hospital Foundation Trust and Guys and St Thomas Foundation Trust, shares her extensive knowledge on the nuanced world of migraine-related facial pain. This episode explores the intricacies of facial pain that can be attributed to migraine, sinusitis, and dental issues, providing essential insights into making the right diagnosis and knowing when it's time to seek dental care.

    Facial pain, often intertwined with migraine, can be misleading and complex. Sinusitis may present similar symptoms, further complicating the diagnostic process. By the end of this episode, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of how migraine can manifest as facial pain, the potential overlap with sinusitis, and the critical role dentists play in managing these conditions.

    If you or someone you know grapples with migraine, facial pain, or sinusitis, this discussion is a must-listen.

    If you have any questions/comments or any topics you would like us to cover in our future episodes email: [email protected].

    Important Links:

    http://trigeminalnerve.org.uk/

    http://orofacialpain.org.uk/

    WE ARE A CHARITY

    Please help us keep going in the following ways:

    Please donate to help us continue to release new episodes: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

  • Join us on this special episode of the Heads Up Podcast as we mark Migraine Awareness Week. In a heartfelt tribute to those who battle migraines, we spotlight three remarkable women and their journeys of resilience. Tune in and lend your support to #MigraineVoices, because together, we can shed light on the silent pain that so many endure.

    Visit the National Migraine Centre's website and learn more about the life changing anti-CGRP treatments available. Book an appointment to see a headache specialist.

  • This episode features two renowned experts in the field of headache medicine, Dr Katy Munro, and Dr Rebecca Walker, as they delve into the fascinating world of anti-CGRP treatments for migraine.

    They explore the science behind anti-CGRP and its role in migraine pathophysiology, shedding light on how these innovative treatments work to prevent and alleviate migraine attacks. They discuss the therapeutic benefits, potentially low side effects, and the overall efficacy of these treatments, providing valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers.

    Learn more about the evolving landscape of migraine management and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, anti-CGRP treatments such as eptinezumab (Vyepti), the gepants like rimegant (Vydura) and other upcoming treatments.

    Whether you are a migraine sufferer seeking new treatment options, a healthcare professional eager to stay up to date with the latest advancements, or simply someone interested in the fascinating world of neurology, this episode offers a comprehensive and accessible exploration of anti-CGRP treatments for migraine, complemented by a poignant patient experience that highlights the transformative power of these therapies.

    Visit the National Migraine Centre's website to learn more about the life changing anti-CGRP treatments available.

  • Welcome to another episode of Heads Up podcast, where we explore the latest insights and techniques to help you achieve optimal health and wellness. In today's episode, we'll be discussing hypnotherapy for migraine and primary headaches with our host, Headache Specialist Dr. Katy Munro, and our special guests, Dr. Nazeli Manukyan and Dr. Ann Williamson, leading experts in the field.

    In this episode, we'll explore the science behind hypnotherapy as a potential solution for managing and preventing migraines. Dr. Manukyan and Ann will share their insights on the effectiveness of hypnotherapy, as well as some practical tips and techniques that you can use to try it out for yourself.

    And that's not all - as a special bonus, we'll also be including a 5-minute relaxation teaser as a bonus track (released with the episode), so you can experience the benefits of hypnotherapy firsthand. Whether you're a migraine sufferer or just looking for some new ways to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being, you won't want to miss this episode.

    So sit back, relax, and join us for an insightful and informative conversation on hypnotherapy for migraine and primary headaches.

  • Take a moment to unwind and de-stress with our 5-minute relaxation teaser. Led by retired GP Ann Williamson, a certified hypnotherapist and expert in mind-body wellness, this session is designed to help you relax and find inner calm. you'll be guided through a series of techniques to release tension, let go of worries, and connect with a deeper sense of peace and tranquility.

    Whether you're looking for a quick break during a busy day, or simply want to unwind before bed, this relaxation teaser is the perfect way to reset your mind and body. So find a comfortable position, put on some headphones, and let yourself drift into a state of deep relaxation. You deserve it!

  • Series 5 new episode is out now!

    Our host, leading Headache Specialist Dr Katy Munro discusses Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) with Professor Alex Sinclair and Dr Susan Mollan. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), also known as benign intracranial hypertension or Pseudotumor cerebri, is a rare condition with an unknown cause or causes. The condition is associated with raised fluid pressure around the brain.

    Expert guests: Professor Sinclair is a Professor of Neurology at the University of Birmingham, and Head of the Metabolic Neurology Research Group. She is an international figure in translational research in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH), headache and traumatic brain injury. Dr Susan Mollan, is an Honorary Professor at the University of Birmingham and a Consultant Neuro-ophthalmologist at University Hospitals Birmingham. She is an International Senior Examiner for the Royal College of Ophthalmologists.

    If you have any questions/comments or any topics you would like us to cover in our future episodes email: [email protected].

    WE ARE A CHARITY

    Please help us keep going in the following ways:

    Please donate to help us continue to release new episodes: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

    Links mentioned in the episode

    1. https://www.iih.org.uk/

    2. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/intracranial-hypertension/

  • Heads Up podcast is back with Series 5

    Our host, leading Headache Specialist Dr Katy Munro discusses managing brain fog experienced by people with migraine and other primary headaches with Dr Sabina Brennan, a neuroscientist, psychologist, and author of the book 'Beating Brain Fog: Your 30- Day Plan to think Faster, Sharper, Better'.

    If you have any questions/comments or any topics you would like us to cover in our future episodes email: [email protected].

    WE ARE A CHARITY

    Please help us keep going in the following ways:

    Please donate to help us continue to release new episodes: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

    Links mentioned in the episode

    1. 'Beating Brain Fog: Your 30- Day Plan to think Faster, Sharper, Better' by Dr Sabina Brennan

    2. 'Managing your migraine' by Dr Katy Munro

    3. For more information or to book a remote consultation with leading UK headache specialists contact us https://www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk/

  • The last episode of Heads Up Podcast Series 4 is a festive edition featuring Headache Specialist and host Dr Katy Munro and four migraine warriors Lily, Amy, Jessica, and Abi discussing living life with chronic pain, and some tips on managing the condition during this festive time. Follow the journeys of our guest migraine warriors:

    Amy: @the_migraine_life Abi: www.abistevens.com Jessica: @jessbullanderson.art

    WE NEED YOUR HELP!

    This year, we have faced devastating financial losses as the terrible impact of the pandemic has hurt us. Our income has collapsed and, without your help, our future is in doubt.

    Please donate now to save the National Migraine Centre before it’s too late!

    Spare just one more gift this festive season!

    Link: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/JustOneMoreGift

    Your donations will help us continue treating people with migraine and create more podcasts.

  • Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) is a condition that impacts children and adults. In this episode featuring our guest, Dr Bethan Myers, Consultant Haematologist at University Hospitals, Leicester, and host Headache Specialist Dr Katy Munro discusses the impact of MCAS on people with migraine.

    In the last segment of the episode, Anna shares her struggle with MCAS and migraine.

    The episode discusses:

    MCAS and Long Covid MCAS and Ehlers Danlos MCAS and hypermobility

    Useful links:

    https://www.mastcellaction.org/ https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/health-a-z/mast-cell-diseases/ https://tmsforacure.org/

    We need your support.

    Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

  • Have you ever got a headache after eating a large scoop of ice cream? There are a number of other primary headaches and this episode is all about these different headaches.

    Our hosts Headache Specialists Dr Katy Munro and Dr Jessica Briscoe discuss cough headaches, sex headaches, ponytail headaches, new daily persistent headaches, ice-cream headaches, and many more in this episode.

    Some useful links:

    https://ichd-3.org/other-primary-headache-disorders/ https://www.bash.org.uk/

    Heads Up Podcast is produced by the National Migraine Centre a charity that needs your support to carry on making more podcasts for the migraine community.

    We need your support.

    Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

  • This Migraine Awareness week, we have our host Headache Specialist GP Dr Katy Munro with GP & Menopause Specialist Dr Louise Newson discussing migraine during perimenopause and menopause.

    This episode features discussions on hormonal changes and its impact and use of HRT for women with migraine. Stay tuned till the end to hear Marissa's migraine experience during the perimenopause phase and the treatments that helped her.

    For more information: https://www.menopausedoctor.co.uk/

    We are a charity and we need your support.

    Donate here : https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

  • This special episode features Headache Specialist Dr. Katy Munro and Lydia Yadi, Senior Commissioning Editor, Penguin Business discussing the book Managing your Migraine, as part of the Penguin Life Expert Series, the motivations behind this comprehensive guide for people with migraine.

    Know more about the book and other health titles that will be coming soon as part of the Penguin Life Expert series.

    Managing Your Migraine is the practical go-to guide for understanding migraine. Dr Munro will give you expert advice on:

    · Understanding your migraine phases and triggers
    · The impact of food, exercise and sleep on migraine
    · Rescue plans for acute attacks
    · Migraine preventers
    · Migraine in children
    · Managing your mental health with migraine

    If you're a person with migraine or know someone struggling, this book will provide helpful strategies for alleviating your symptoms and managing your migraine. Drawing on her medical expertise, her own personal experience with migraine, and the stories of her patients, Dr Munro will empower you to get to know your own migraine and build an effective treatment plan that will help you live your life more fully.

    'Managing Your Migraine' by Dr Katy Munro BM MRCGP DRCOG, headache specialist GP at the National Migraine Centre will be published on the 26th of August by Penguin Life.

    You can now pre-order the book from the following retailers:

    Amazon

    Waterstones

    WHSmith

    Foyles

    Bookshop.org

  • This episode features our host Headache Specialist Dr Katy Munro and guests from Flippin' Pain Team, Prof Cormac Ryan, Professor of Clinical Rehabilitation at Teesside University, and physiotherapist, Felicity Thow discussing chronic pain, its impact, and management.

    Did you know?

    30-50% of people in the UK live with persistent pain which negatively impacts their physical and mental health, social and home lives, and the ability to stay at work.

    To know more about the Flippin' Pain Campaign and understand about persistent pain and various treatments click here https://www.flippinpain.co.uk/

    We are a charity and we need your support.

    Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

  • This is part two of our Migraine and Acupuncture episode featuring headache specialist Dr Katy Munro and special guest Dr Mike Cummings, Medical Director of the British Medical Acupuncture Society.

    For more information on acupuncture for migraine see the links:

    https://www.medical-acupuncture.co.uk/ https://acupuncture.org.uk/

    Our host, Headache Specialist Dr Katy Munro's book 'Managing your Migraine' part of Penguin Life Series is releasing on 26th August. The book is available to pre-order from Amazon https://amzn.to/3yaiu5t

    If you have any questions/comments or any topics you would like us to cover in our future episodes email: [email protected].

    WE ARE A CHARITY. Please help us keep going in the following ways:

    Donate to help us continue to release new episodes: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

  • This is the first part of this two-part episode. Part two will be out next week featuring Dr Katy Munro and special guest Dr Mike Cummings, Medical Director of the British Medical Acupuncture Society.

    Our hosts Headache Specialist Dr Katy Munro and Dr Jessica Briscoe discuss various evidence-based holistic treatments for the management of migraine. We are also joined by acupuncturist Nicola Court who talks about acupuncture therapy for migraine patients and shares her experiences.

    A special thanks to Allie Munro, for giving voice to the story of one of Nicola's patients, sharing their experience with migraine.

    Dr Katy Munro's book 'Managing your Migraine' is an informative and educational read with a lot of information on holistic treatments. The book is available to pre-order from Amazon now https://amzn.to/3yaiu5t

    For more information on acupuncture for migraine see the links:

    http://www.nicolacourt.co.uk/ https://acupuncture.org.uk/

    If you have any questions/comments or any topics you would like us to cover in our future episodes email: [email protected].

    WE ARE A CHARITY. Please help us keep going in the following ways:

    Donate to help us continue to release new episodes: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

  • This episode features our host Headache Specialist Dr Katy Munro and guest Dr Shin Beh, the founding Director of UT Southwestern’s Vestibular Neurology and Neuro-Visual Disorders Clinic (Dallas, Texas, US).

    Together they discuss:

    different features of Vestibular Migraine in both children and adults Ménière's disease Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) Chiari Malformation Vertigo in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Migraine lifestyle management, supplements, and diet for Vestibular Migraine the role of histamine in Vestibular Migraine

    For more information read Dr Beh's book: "Victory over Vestibular Migraine: the action plan for healing & getting your life back."

    If you have any questions/comments or any topics you would like us to cover in our future episodes email: [email protected].

    WE ARE A CHARITY. Please help us keep going in the following ways:

    Donate to help us continue to release new episodes: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

    If you have any queries or concerns about your headaches or medications please discuss them with your GP or a Headache Specialist.

  • We are back with Season 4!

    This episode features our host Headache Specialist Dr Katy Munro and guest Dr Pooja Dassan, a Consultant Neurologist at Imperial College Healthcare Trust with expertise in obstetric neurology, discussing different types of primary and secondary headaches and their management during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

    For more information on medications you can take during pregnancy and breastfeeding visit
    https://www.medicinesinpregnancy.org/About-Us/

    For more information on cluster headaches contact OUCH UK here https://ouchuk.org/

    If you have any questions/comments or any topics you would like us to cover in our future episodes email: [email protected].

    WE ARE A CHARITY. Please help us keep going in the following ways:

    Donate to help us continue to release new episodes: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup

    **This episode was recorded in January 2021 and does not address the recent Astra Zeneca vaccine concerns. For any queries, consult with your GP.

    **Disclaimer

    The information provided in this podcast is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by the Heads Up Podcast and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the podcast or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

    If you have any queries or concerns about your headaches or medications please discuss them with your GP or a Headache Specialist.