Heads Up

National Migraine Centre

Headache Specialists from the UK charity National Migraine Centre discuss everything migraine and headache related. This podcast is set up to help give support and advice to those suffering with this largely misunderstood condition.

Throughout this podcast you will hear from guest speakers and experts in the medical field, as well as from migraineurs themselves sharing their experiences.

Send us your questions or any comments to info@nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk.

The Heads Up podcast is provided for general information only. It is not intended to amount to medical advice on which you should rely or to advocate or recommend the purchase of any product or to endorse or guarantee the credentials or appropriateness of any health care provider. The National Migraine Centre is not responsible for the views of those featured on this podcast and does not endorse, approve, or certify their recommendations or opinions, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. No material within this podcast is intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of information provided in this podcast.

Do not begin a new medical regimen, or ignore the advice of a medical professional, as a result of information expressed in this podcast, this website or from any of the sources of information to which we may link. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the National Migraine Centre makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this podcast. Any hyperlinks or references are provided for your convenience & information only. We have no control over third party websites and accept no legal responsibility for any content, material or information contained in them.

Play

Open in

23 episodes
Avg 51 min
English

Episodes 23

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

S8 · E5
October 18 · 59 min
Ep 5. Chronic pain at midlife: A world menopause day special
What does chronic pain really mean, and why can it feel harder to manage in midlife? For World Menopause Day, our host Headache Specialist Dr Katy Munro is joined by Dr Barbara Phipps, a GP working with people living with persistent pain, to explore chronic pain at midlife. Together, they discuss why pain can persist, how the nervous system can become more sensitive over time, and why pain does not always mean ongoing damage. They also discuss the hormonal changes of menopause, alongside sleep, stress, movement and the many pressures people face at midlife. A central theme is the importance of being heard. Katy and Barbara talk about why women's pain is sometimes not taken seriously, and how the words used in healthcare can affect how people understand and manage their pain. Additional links: https://www.imsociety.org/ https://themenopausecharity.org/ www.livingproof.org.uk http://www.flippinpain.co.uk
S8 · E4
September 15 · 48 min
Ep 4. Menstrual Migraine: The hidden hormone link?
In this episode of Heads Up, host Dr Katy Munro, headache specialist at the National Migraine Centre, is joined by Dr Rebecca Walker, a GP with an extended role in headache medicine and menopause care. Together they unpack menstrual migraine and the powerful role of hormones. They explain how migraine often changes at puberty, during pregnancy and through the menopause transition, and why women are three times more likely than men to experience it. Practical takeaways include how to track headaches alongside your cycle, which contraceptive options are safe with and without aura, and when combined pills, progestogen-only methods or coils may help stabilise hormones. They also review treatment options from anti-inflammatories, triptans and newer gepants to anti-sickness tablets, lifestyle measures, supplements and non-drug neuromodulation devices. Additional Links: Dr David Kernick and Exeter Headache Care: https://exeterheadachecare.co.uk/ Dr Aziza Sesay and S6 E4: https://www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk/understanding-migraine/heads-up-podcast/ Nerivio: https://www.nerivio.co.uk/ Cefaly: https://www.cefaly.com/ Dr Salwa Kamourieh and S2 E10: https://www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk/understanding-migraine/heads-up-podcast/ MyHeadache app: Apple AppStore: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/myheadache/id6746536132 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.avegenhealth.hm.dhp302.prod&hl=en_GB https://www.headacheaudit.org.uk/migraine-audit NICE: https://www.nice.org.uk/ S5 E4: http://headsup.libsyn.com/exploring-new-anti-cgrp-treatments-for-migraine
S8 · E3
August 19 · 1 hr 20 min
Ep 3 Heard, not dismissed: Making the most of your migraine or headache appointment
Getting the right support for migraine or headache can sometimes feel difficult. How can you prepare for an appointment, make sure your concerns are heard, and get the most out of the time you have with your healthcare professional? In this episode of Heads Up podcast, our host Dr Katy Munro is joined by Dr Lauren Wellburn and Dr Surangi Mendis, all three headache specialists at the National Migraine Centre, with extensive experience helping people living with migraine and other headache conditions. In this episode they share practical advice on preparing for appointments, keeping a simple headache diary, explaining your symptoms and treatment history, and being clear about what you want from your care. They also discuss what to do if a treatment isn't working, when it may be helpful to seek a second opinion, and why it's important to understand what happens next. The episode explores some of the barriers people can face when accessing headache care, including language, health literacy, race, gender, cultural attitudes and wider health inequalities. Additional information: https://migrainetrust.org/live-with-migraine/healthcare/visiting-your-gp/ https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/what-to-ask-your-doctor/ https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/racial-disparities-in-migraine-care https://www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk/headache-diary/
S8 · E2
June 25 · 56 min
Ep 2. Chronic migraine: recovery through pain reprocessing therapy
In this inspiring episode of Heads Up podcast, our host Dr Katy Munro is joined by Amy Mowbray and Lily Earle, two women who transformed their lives after years of living with chronic migraine and debilitating symptoms. Together, they share their personal recovery journeys and discuss how brain training, pain reprocessing therapy, somatic tracking and self-compassion helped them break free from cycles of fear, sensitisation and disability. Amy and Lily explain how understanding the brain-body connection changed their relationship with pain, reduced anxiety around migraine attacks and helped them regain confidence, independence and joy. They also offer practical insights into techniques that listeners can explore for themselves. This conversation is filled with hope, compassion and evidence-informed discussion, reminding anyone living with chronic migraine that recovery is possible. Disclaimer: The Heads Up podcast is provided for general information only. It is not intended to amount to medical advice on which you should rely or to advocate or recommend the purchase of any product or to endorse or guarantee the credentials or appropriateness of any health care provider. The National Migraine Centre is not responsible for the views of those featured on this podcast and does not endorse, approve, or certify their recommendations or opinions, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. No material within this podcast is intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of information provided in this podcast. Do not begin a new medical regimen, or ignore the advice of a medical professional, as a result of information expressed in this podcast, this website or from any of the sources of information to which we may link. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the National Migraine Centre makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this podcast. Any hyperlinks or references are provided for your convenience & information only. We have no control over third party websites and accept no legal responsibility for any content, material or information contained in them.
#1
June 1 · 45 min
Ep 1. Chronic migraine - facing challenges together Nicola and Dominic Gribbin
What does it take to kayak the entire British coastline solo while your partner manages chronic migraine from a motorhome on shore? In this first episode of series eight of Heads Up, Dr Katy Munro sits down with Nicola and Dominic Gribbin for an honest and inspiring conversation that covers far more than adventure. Nicola has lived with migraine since childhood, from episodic attacks during school exams at sixteen, to chronic daily migraine and the added challenge of vestibular migraine. She shares her decades long journey through medications, including the pitfalls of codeine and the life changing arrival of anti CGRP treatment Vyepti, alongside the things that have helped her most: hypnotherapy, coastal meditations, and the unexpected creative outlet of writing her debut fantasy novel. Silent Curse. Dominic is a TV cameraman and Nicola's husband of over two decades. He reflects on what it really means to be a partner to someone living with chronic pain, talking openly about flexibility, relationship dynamics and choosing to stay positive. Together they are preparing to take on a 2,300-mile kayak circumnavigation of mainland Britain, raising funds for the National Migraine Centre, Parkinson's UK and the Atrial Fibrillation Society. Follow their journey on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@EdgeofBritain Donate here: https://givewheel.com/fundraising/15091/edge-of-britain/ Disclaimer: The Heads Up podcast is provided for general information only. It is not intended to amount to medical advice on which you should rely or to advocate or recommend the purchase of any product or to endorse or guarantee the credentials or appropriateness of any health care provider. The National Migraine Centre is not responsible for the views of those featured on this podcast and does not endorse, approve, or certify their recommendations or opinions, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. No material within this podcast is intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of information provided in this podcast. Do not begin a new medical regimen, or ignore the advice of a medical professional, as a result of information expressed in this podcast, this website or from any of the sources of information to which we may link. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the National Migraine Centre makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this podcast. Any hyperlinks or references are provided for your convenience & information only. We have no control over third party websites and accept no legal responsibility for any content, material or information contained in them.
S7 · E7
April 2 · 24 min
Ep 7. Pregnancy and Parenthood
Spotlight Series | Heads Up Podcast What happens when cluster headache and pregnancy collide? In this episode, Daisy joins our host Dr Katy Munro to talk honestly about managing attacks during pregnancy and with a toddler, navigating medication decisions, and the importance of specialist support for anyone planning a family. For more information visit: National Migraine Centre: www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk OUCH UK: www.ouchuk.org https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/headache-cluster/ Heads Up Episode on Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: https://headsup.libsyn.com/headaches-during-pregnancy-and-breastfeeding *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. The Heads Up podcast is provided for general information only. It is not intended to amount to medical advice on which you should rely or to advocate or recommend the purchase of any product or to endorse or guarantee the credentials or appropriateness of any health care provider. The National Migraine Centre is not responsible for the views of those featured on this podcast and does not endorse, approve, or certify their recommendations or opinions, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. No material within this podcast is intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of information provided in this podcast. Do not begin a new medical regimen, or ignore the advice of a medical professional, as a result of information expressed in this podcast, this website or from any of the sources of information to which we may link. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the National Migraine Centre makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this podcast. Any hyperlinks or references are provided for your convenience & information only. We have no control over third party websites and accept no legal responsibility for any content, material or information contained in them.
S7 · E6
March 31 · 36 min
Ep 6. When pain meets the Law
Spotlight Series | Heads Up Podcast Cluster headache can affect every part of a person's life, including their rights at work. In this episode, our host Dr Katy Munro is joined by Mike Smalley who has had Cluster Headache since the age of 14. Drawing on his experience as a former union representative, Mike discusses what the Equality Act 2010 means for cluster headache patients as this is recognised as a disability and what protections are available. Mike is an admin on a patient support forum. For more information: http://www.facebook.com/groups/clusterheadacheuk https://ouchuk.org/reasonable-adjustments https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/headache-cluster/ *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. The Heads Up podcast is provided for general information only. It is not intended to amount to medical advice on which you should rely or to advocate or recommend the purchase of any product or to endorse or guarantee the credentials or appropriateness of any health care provider. The National Migraine Centre is not responsible for the views of those featured on this podcast and does not endorse, approve, or certify their recommendations or opinions, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. No material within this podcast is intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of information provided in this podcast. Do not begin a new medical regimen, or ignore the advice of a medical professional, as a result of information expressed in this podcast, this website or from any of the sources of information to which we may link. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the National Migraine Centre makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this podcast. Any hyperlinks or references are provided for your convenience & information only. We have no control over third party websites and accept no legal responsibility for any content, material or information contained in them.
S7 · E5
March 29 · 47 min
Ep 5. Searching for Answers
Spotlight Series | Heads Up Podcast Isobel West has lived with cluster headache since the age of fifteen. Misdiagnosed for years and left to advocate for herself, she eventually found her way to the correct diagnosis at twenty-one. Now she is channeling that experience into a PhD at Kings College London, investigating the brain mechanisms behind the condition through studying human post-mortem brain tissue donated by individuals who lived with cluster headache and generously donated their brains to research, in collaboration with King's College London. In this episode, she joins our host, Dr Katy Munro, to talk about what it means to be both a patient and a researcher, why diagnosis takes so long, and what her work could one day mean for others living with cluster headaches. https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/headache-cluster/ https://ouchuk.org/advice-line *The reference to the study Isobel quoted is here: Frederiksen HH, Lund NL, Barloese MC, Petersen AS, Jensen RH (2020) Diagnostic delay of cluster headache: A cohort study from the Danish Cluster Headache Survey. Cephalalgia 40(1):49–56. 10.1177/0333102419863030. DD of 18.8 years in age of onset below 20 yrs DD of 5.4 years in age of onset 20-40 yrs DD of 2.1 years after 40 yrs.* *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. The Heads Up podcast is provided for general information only. It is not intended to amount to medical advice on which you should rely or to advocate or recommend the purchase of any product or to endorse or guarantee the credentials or appropriateness of any health care provider. The National Migraine Centre is not responsible for the views of those featured on this podcast and does not endorse, approve, or certify their recommendations or opinions, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. No material within this podcast is intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of information provided in this podcast. Do not begin a new medical regimen, or ignore the advice of a medical professional, as a result of information expressed in this podcast, this website or from any of the sources of information to which we may link. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the National Migraine Centre makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this podcast. Any hyperlinks or references are provided for your convenience & information only. We have no control over third party websites and accept no legal responsibility for any content, material or information contained in them.
S7 · E4
March 27 · 41 min
Ep 4. What's Going on in the Brain?
Spotlight Series | Heads Up Podcast What happens in the brain during a cluster headache attack? In this episode, our host Dr Katy Munro is joined by Dr Phil Holland, a leading headache neuroscientist and previous guest expert on the podcast, to dig into the science behind one of the most extreme pain events the human body can experience. They explore why attacks follow such striking seasonal and daily patterns, the relationship between cluster headache and sleep, the role of brain neuropeptides like CGRP and PACAP, and what emerging therapies targeting these pathways could mean for patients. If you have ever wanted to understand the biology behind the pain, this is the episode for you. For more information please see the links below: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/people/philip-r-holland https://www.georgeinstitute.org/news-and-media/news/hope-for-cluster-headache-community-as-psilocybin-trial-funded https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/headache-cluster/ *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. The Heads Up podcast is provided for general information only. It is not intended to amount to medical advice on which you should rely or to advocate or recommend the purchase of any product or to endorse or guarantee the credentials or appropriateness of any health care provider. The National Migraine Centre is not responsible for the views of those featured on this podcast and does not endorse, approve, or certify their recommendations or opinions, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. No material within this podcast is intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of information provided in this podcast. Do not begin a new medical regimen, or ignore the advice of a medical professional, as a result of information expressed in this podcast, this website or from any of the sources of information to which we may link. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the National Migraine Centre makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this podcast. Any hyperlinks or references are provided for your convenience & information only. We have no control over third party websites and accept no legal responsibility for any content, material or information contained in them.
S7 · E3
March 25 · 55 min
Ep 3. Navigating Adolescence
Spotlight Series | Heads Up Podcast Frederick was eleven when diagnosed with cluster headache. Now seventeen and heading to university, they join our host Dr Katy Munro alongside their mum Rachael, OUCH's Officer for Children and Young People, to talk about growing up with one of the most painful conditions known to medicine, sharing tips on how they manage and information about support for families. For more information visit the links below: www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk https://ouchuk.org/advice-line https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/headache-cluster/ *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. The Heads Up podcast is provided for general information only. It is not intended to amount to medical advice on which you should rely or to advocate or recommend the purchase of any product or to endorse or guarantee the credentials or appropriateness of any health care provider. The National Migraine Centre is not responsible for the views of those featured on this podcast and does not endorse, approve, or certify their recommendations or opinions, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. No material within this podcast is intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of information provided in this podcast. Do not begin a new medical regimen, or ignore the advice of a medical professional, as a result of information expressed in this podcast, this website or from any of the sources of information to which we may link. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the National Migraine Centre makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this podcast. Any hyperlinks or references are provided for your convenience & information only. We have no control over third party websites and accept no legal responsibility for any content, material or information contained in them.
S7 · E2
March 23 · 28 min
Ep 2. The Youngest Patients
Spotlight Series | Heads Up Podcast Alexander was two and a half years old when the attacks began. In this episode, he and his mum, Mel, join our host and a headache specialist, Dr Katy Munro, to share what it is like to be a child with cluster headache, from the experience of the excruciating attacks and the fight for diagnosis to navigating treatment and family life. A rare and important conversation about the impact on the youngest patients. For more information visit the links below: www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk www.ouchuk.org https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/wards-and-departments/departments/clinical-specialties/neurology-information/clinics-and-wards-used-neurology-service/headache-clinic/ https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/headache-cluster/ *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. The Heads Up podcast is provided for general information only. It is not intended to amount to medical advice on which you should rely or to advocate or recommend the purchase of any product or to endorse or guarantee the credentials or appropriateness of any health care provider. The National Migraine Centre is not responsible for the views of those featured on this podcast and does not endorse, approve, or certify their recommendations or opinions, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. No material within this podcast is intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of information provided in this podcast. Do not begin a new medical regimen, or ignore the advice of a medical professional, as a result of information expressed in this podcast, this website or from any of the sources of information to which we may link. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the National Migraine Centre makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this podcast. Any hyperlinks or references are provided for your convenience & information only. We have no control over third party websites and accept no legal responsibility for any content, material or information contained in them.
S7 · E1
March 21 · 47 min
Ep 1. Cluster Headache, Chris Addison shares his story
Spotlight Series | Heads Up Podcast Cluster headache has been called the most painful condition known to medicine. Comedian and actor Chris Addison, known for The Thick of It and In the Loop, knows that firsthand. In this episode, he joins our host Dr Katy Munro, Senior GP Headache Specialist at the National Migraine Centre, to share his experience of living with cluster headache. This is the first of seven Spotlight episodes launching on Cluster Headache Awareness Day, exploring every dimension of the condition, from childhood and pregnancy to the science of what happens in the brain during an attack. Specialist support and effective treatment is available. For more information visit the links below: www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk www.ouchuk.org https://clusterbusters.org/ https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/headache-cluster/ OUCH Summer Conference is in Birmingham on June 14th https://ouchuk.org/civicrm/event/info?id=41 *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. The Heads Up podcast is provided for general information only. It is not intended to amount to medical advice on which you should rely or to advocate or recommend the purchase of any product or to endorse or guarantee the credentials or appropriateness of any health care provider. The National Migraine Centre is not responsible for the views of those featured on this podcast and does not endorse, approve, or certify their recommendations or opinions, and information from this podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. No material within this podcast is intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of information provided in this podcast. Do not begin a new medical regimen, or ignore the advice of a medical professional, as a result of information expressed in this podcast, this website or from any of the sources of information to which we may link. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the National Migraine Centre makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this podcast. Any hyperlinks or references are provided for your convenience & information only. We have no control over third party websites and accept no legal responsibility for any content, material or information contained in them.
S6 · E6
Dec 23, 2025 · 1 hr 13 min
Mast cell activation syndrome and migraine
*:first-child]:mt-0"> In our final Heads Up episode of the year, our host Dr Katy Munro is joined by GP headache specialist Dr Cyriac Athappilly and Dr Tina Peers, an expert in mast cell activation syndrome, to explore the fascinating and often under‑recognised connection between MCAS and migraine. Together, they unpack how mast cell activity can influence migraine triggers, discuss the shared symptoms that can complicate diagnosis, and share insights on practical approaches to managing both conditions. Tune in for an engaging, information‑packed conversation that could shed light on new ways to understand and manage your symptoms. Listen and share Heads Up on all leading podcast platforms, and browse our archive for more expert‑led discussions on migraine and headache management. From all of us at the Heads Up team, wishing you a restful, healthy and happy festive season. Useful links: https://www.drtinapeers.com/mcas https://www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk
S6 · E5
Oct 31, 2025 · 43 min
Endometriosis and migraine- a personal story (Part2)
*:first-child]:mt-0"> Join headache specialist Dr Katy Munro for part two of this discussion exploring the connections between endometriosis, adenomyosis, and migraine. In this episode, Dr Munro speaks with patient advocate and campaigner Victoria Hardy, who shares her personal journey of living with these conditions. Her story offers an honest account of the challenges of diagnosis, the impact on daily life, and the importance of being heard and believed within the healthcare system. Together, they consider practical strategies for managing symptoms, the value of integrated care, and the crucial role of awareness and advocacy in improving the experiences of those affected by these often-overlooked conditions. Connect with Victoria: @ginge_unhinged For further support and reliable information, visit: Endometriosis UK: https://www.endometriosis-uk.org Endometriosis Southcoast: https://endometriosissouthcoast.com/ Endometriosis Foundation UK: https://www.theendometriosisfoundation.org/ National Migraine Centre: https://www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk
S6 · E3
Oct 24, 2025 · 45 min
Endometriosis, Adenomyosis & Migraine - exploring the links. Part 1
Join headache specialist Dr Katy Munro as she hosts a lively conversation with Dr Aziza Sesay from Talks with Dr. Sesay. This episode unpacks the complex connections that migraine has with endometriosis and adenomyosis, conditions that affect women and which are widely misunderstood and overlooked. Discover how these conditions intertwine, why greater awareness matters, and practical insights to better recognise and manage symptoms. Whether you're living with these challenges or caring for someone who is, this episode offers expert knowledge combined with empathy and real-world guidance. For further support and information contact Endometriosis UK More links: They are not bad words: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSk7lelMQaE
S6 · E2
Sep 26, 2025 · 58 min
Neuromodulation for migraine treatment: Latest update
Join Dr Katy Munro, senior GP headache specialist and host of Heads Up, as she welcomes Dr Salwa Kamourieh, consultant neurologist at University College London Hospitals. In this episode, they review the latest advances in neuromodulation treatments for migraine, both non-invasive and invasive including Cefaly, STMS, Nerivio and other innovative devices. Dr Munro and Dr Kamourieh unpack the evidence on efficacy, practicalities for usage, key patient groups, and the costs and accessibility of these treatments across the NHS and private sector. They also offer insights on best practice for cluster headache and paediatric patients. For listeners interested in exploring device options, the National Migraine Centre currently offers a 15% discount on the Cefaly Enhanced device via this link: https://www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk/news/could-a-device-be-part-of-your-migraine-treatment-plan/ Heads Up is produced by the National Migraine Centre, the UK charity dedicated to improving headache care. If you appreciate our work, please consider supporting us with a donation here. Useful links: Cefaly: https://bhr.co.uk/ Nerivio: https://www.nerivio.co.uk/ sTMS Mini: https://eneura.com/about-stms-mini-uk/
S6 · E2
Jul 4, 2025 · 57 min
Aura, visual snow and light sensitivity: making sense of migraine symptoms
In this episode, host headache specialist Dr Katy Munro is joined by Dr Francesca Puledda, consultant neurologist and researcher with a special interest in migraine and complex visual symptoms. Together, they explore what happens in the brain during aura, how to recognise and understand visual snow syndrome, and why light sensitivity can be such a challenging symptom for people living with migraine. They also discuss the different types of aura, the latest research, and practical tools that may help, including specialist lenses and filters designed to reduce visual discomfort. This episode is brought to you by the National Migraine Centre, a charity providing expert care for people with migraine and headache. If you find the podcast helpful, please consider making a small donation to help us keep it going. Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/national-migraine-centre
S6 · E1
May 16, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
Nutrition, Gut Health and Migraine: What's the Link?
In this first episode of series six of Heads Up podcast, our host Dr Katy Munro is joined by nutritionist Emma Ellice-Flint, a qualified nutritionist with a special interest in migraine and women's health. Together, they explore the complex relationship between migraine, gut health, and diet—covering everything from common food triggers to allergies, nutritional myths, and practical advice for making confident choices around food. This episode is brought to you by the National Migraine Centre, a charity providing expert care for people with migraine and headache. If you find the podcast helpful, please consider making a small donation to help us keep it going. Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/national-migraine-centre Learn more about Emma Ellice-Flint's work at https://emmasnutrition.com/about/ Dr Katy Munro is also the author of Managing Your Migraine, a practical guide to understanding and living with migraine. Available here
May 7, 2025 · 25 min
Bonus episode: Celebrating six years of Heads Up
In this special bonus episode, host Dr Katy Munro is joined by National Migraine Centre's operations director Charlotte Burr, chief executive Dan Tickle, and clinical & communications director Swati Raina, the producer of Heads Up. Together, we reflect on the podcast's six-year journey and the growth of the charity behind it. We share insights into the clinical services available for people living with migraine and headache conditions, and how National Migraine Centre has become a trusted place for expert advice, treatment options, and long-term support. Whether you're newly diagnosed or navigating chronic symptoms, this episode highlights how you can access the right help - and why no one should have to suffer alone. Click to book an appointment Listen to more episodes Support our work
S5 · E12
Dec 20, 2024 · 1 hr 31 min
Ep 12. Migraine and the role of pharmacists
Heads Up – Series 5 Finale Episode In this extended and festive final episode, Dr Katy Munro, GP and Headache Specialist, explores the crucial role pharmacists play in the migraine and headache treatment journey. First Half: Our host Dr Katy Munro is joined by experienced prescribing pharmacists David Kelly and Nadeem Shah from North England. They share their insights into supporting people with migraine and headaches, what patients need to know before approaching a pharmacist, and how pharmacists can be a vital first point of contact. Second half: Dr David Watson, GP Headache Specialist in Aberdeen, and pharmacist Abigail Duthie lead a pharmacy project in Scotland. It highlights the public education campaign. This project was in collaboration with the Migraine Trust & the NHS Grampian.This discussion is tailored to pharmacists, highlighting their essential role in diagnosis and treatment cycles for migraine and headache care. As we wrap up Series 5, we wish you a wonderful festive season and look forward to returning with Series 6 in the new year. If you'd like to support the podcast, please consider making a small donation https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/headsup and leaving a review on your favourite podcast platform. Thank you for listening and supporting Heads Up!

Showing 1–20 of 23 episodes