Sources of evidence

Even during an attack, no specific impairment of function would be expected with no disabling loss of function of the limbs and no cardiovascular impairment. Between attacks the person would be expected to function normally apart from sensible adjustments to lifestyle to avoid known trigger factors. Therefore further evidence would not usually be required.

There is a small increased risk of stroke in migraine sufferers. The rare cases that experience severe effects such as unconsciousness or paralysis are likely to be under the care of a neurologist particularly as other more sinister causes of the symptoms need to be excluded.

Amended April 2008