Migraine Heroes

Stress

Member Stories and Migraine Science episodes about Stress.

Patricia smiling in a sunhat and blue top against a soft green background.

Patricia

63 years old, USA

Self-reported migraine

At start:

20 days/month

After 10 months:

1 day/month

What changed

Went from near-daily headaches escalating into migraines tied to suppressed anger and physical tension, to a full migraine-free month and rediscovered hobbies like piano and crochet.

"Life is so much simpler because I always had pain to work around."

Migraine TypesHormones

In today’s episode I interview Diane Ducarme who shares her expertise on migraines, including a holistic approach that combines Western science and Eastern medicine to understand and treat this complex condition. She explores the intricate connections between hormones, stress, gut health, and migraines, emphasizing the body's logical nature and its ability to heal when given the right support. Through personalized nutrition and comprehensive tracking, Diane has helped numerous women not only manage their migraines but also improve their overall health and fertility. Her approach highlights the importance of listening to one's body and addressing root causes rather than just treating symptoms. Episode Highlights: - Diane's skiing accident that significantly impacted her health which was catalyst that pushed her to work in health and wellness. - A comprehensive overview of migraines, explaining their duration, location, and accompanying symptom. - The connection between hormonal fluctuations and migraines. - How hormonal changes can trigger migraine attacks and the relationship between estrogen drops and liver toxin processing. - How stress impacts migraines along with cortisol and its role in triggering migraine attacks. - Vagus nerve and gut-brain axis, how digestive issues and gut health can directly impact migraine occurrence. - Diane's holistic approach to treating migraines and helping improve fertility outcomes.

Listen66 min
Migraine TypesHormones

In this episode of The Hotflash inc Podcast journalist and host Ann Marie McQueen Ann Marie sits down with Diane Ducarme, founder and CEO of Migraine Heroes, to uncover the root causes of migraines and discuss how a holistic, science-backed approach can lead to relief and resilience. Diane blends Western medicine, Eastern healing practices, and advanced technology to tackle migraines at their core. With an MBA from Harvard Business School, a background in science and engineering, to her studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Diane shares how her unique perspective – and attention to detail – is revolutionizing migraine care. 💬 Top Quote: "We need to stop silencing pain and start listening to it. Migraines are not just headaches—they are a call for balance in the body and mind." – Diane Ducarme Episode Highlights: ✅ The real reason why migraines are misunderstood in Western medicine ✅ The connection between trauma, the gut-brain axis, and migraines  ✅ How perimenopause and hormonal shifts exacerbate migraine attacks  ✅ Why traditional treatments often fail—and what to do instead  ✅ How adding functional foods (not eliminating) can heal your body  ✅ The power of the vagus nerve and emotional healing in migraine relief  ✅ How the Migraine Heroes app is helping people regain control of their health

Listen40 min
Steph and Alex smiling together with a small brown dog against a soft green background.

Steph & Alex

31 years old, UK

Self-reported migraine

At start:

21 days/month

After 10 months:

9 days/month

What changed

Steph went from a 12-year pattern of frequent migraines to a 60–70% pain reduction and confidently setting a wedding date; Alex left her job to prioritize her health and is already seeing results after a few months.

"It really is life-changing."

HormonesGut-Brain

Migraines can be debilitating, especially when triggers like hormones, stress, and anxiety come into play. In this episode, we explore the root causes of migraines, from early signs and common triggers to how hormonal shifts during PMS and menopause affect women. We dive into liver health, managing anxiety, and yin activities to help keep migraines at bay. Tune in for insights on how to support your body naturally through hydration, digestive health, and stress management to find lasting relief from migraines. Hosted by Leanne Vogel.

Listen50 min
HormonesGut-Brain

## **There is hope on the other side of migraines!** By combining Western science, Eastern medicine, and technology, Diane Ducarme helps individuals understand the root causes of migraines and reclaim their lives. We discuss: - What exactly is a migraine? - Why are migraines more common in women? - What triggers migraines most often? - Impact of contraceptives on migraines - Impact of foods, caffeine and alcohol on migraines - Is exercise a help or a hindrance for migraines? - How do you manage migraines effectively?

Listen30 min
Gut-BrainStress

In this episode, we explore the intricate connection between trauma and migraines with our special guest, Dulcie, a trauma-focused counselor and expert in polyvagal theory. Dulcie brings her extensive knowledge and experience to shed light on how our nervous system shapes our responses to past traumas and influences our present experiences. From childhood adversity to chronic pain, we delve into the profound impact of unresolved trauma on our daily lives and overall well-being. Highlights: - The Nervous System and Mental Health: Discover how the nervous system is shaped by trauma and its profound influence on our mental health. - Understanding the Vagus Nerve: Learn about the vagus nerve, its role in trauma, and its connection to our overall well-being. - Defining Trauma: Explore the various types of trauma and what constitutes a traumatic experience. - Trauma in Children: Understand how trauma is defined in children, the physical signals to look out for, and the importance of early detection. - Coping Strategies: Discuss common coping strategies that develop in childhood and continue into adult life, such as people-pleasing, shutting down, and constant environment scanning. - Treating Trauma: Learn about effective strategies to treat trauma, make the nervous system more flexible, and how to stay present in the moment. - Polyvagal Theory: Dive into polyvagal theory and its crucial connection to understanding and healing trauma.

Listen38 min
Jaya sitting with her young daughter and a small white dog against a soft green background beside the episode title.

Jaya

41 years old, USA

Self-reported migraine

At start:

17 days/month

After 5 months:

5 days/month

What changed

Went from hiding migraine pain on video calls at work to having the energy to exercise, play with her daughter, and being open with her manager about the diagnosis.

"I found progress by being open with what I was experiencing... and being open with those around me."

Dulcie standing in a light blue blouse against a soft green background beside the episode title.

Dulcie

39 years old, Canada

Self-reported migraine

At start:

28 days/month

After 1 month:

2 days/month

What changed

Dulcie went from daily pain to many pain-free days, needed less medication, and could spend more time working and reading.

“Don’t just accept that this is normal for you.”

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