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June 1, 2024, marked the first day of Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, a national observance to recognize and raise awareness of the neurological disease and headache disorders. The

debilitating issue affects 16% of all Veterans receiving care in Veterans Health Administration (VHA).  

VHA and Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS) host many services, programs, and treatments to aid Veterans who suffer from different types of headache disorders, including the

development of the VHA Headache Center of Excellence. As we observe Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, it is crucial to understand the significant impact these conditions can have on

individuals and Veterans, with more than half of adults developing a headache at least once within the last year. 

From Oct. 1, 2007, to Sept. 30, 2022, almost 1.9 million Veterans were diagnosed and treated within VHA for migraines and headaches.  

As Veterans, it is important to know the affects burn pits can have on migraines and headaches. Living near burn pits and having burn pit duties during deployment was associated with being: 

Living near burn pits and not having burn pit duties during deployment was associated with being:  

Migraines are a neurological condition characterized by intense, throbbing headaches that can last for hours or even days. Headaches are a common occurrence for many people and can range

from mild to severe in intensity.  

Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.  

There are two general types of headache disorders: primary headache and secondary headache.  

There are many different forms of primary and secondary headaches. The most common primary headaches include tension-type headache, migraine headache and cluster headache. Secondary

headaches can include posttraumatic headache, cervicogenic headache, and drug induced headache.  

All disorders can be debilitating and can interfere with daily activities, work, and relationships, leading to decreased quality of life and productivity.  

Migraines and headache disorders can develop for many different reasons. Some contributing factors of a headache include:  

If you struggle with headaches and migraines, try to keep a headache log. It is not uncommon to have more than one type of headache and the headache log is crucial to determine issues and

treatment. 

Some headache treatments are meant to immediately halt a headache when it develops. These can be pills, injections, dissolvable tablets, medical devices, or nasal sprays. It is best to use

these treatments as soon as the headache begins.  

Preventive treatments are those that you use on a regular basis to reduce headache frequency and decrease severity of symptoms. These can include medications, devices, or even some non-drug

options like mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, or other treatment options. Your provider may suggest a preventive treatment if you have frequent headaches that affect your work,

family, or social activities. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment for you. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with migraines or headaches, it is important to seek help from a health care provider. There are a variety of treatment options available, including

medications, lifestyle changes, and alternative therapies that can help manage symptoms and prevent future attacks.  

During a VA appointment, the provider will ask certain questions for diagnosis. Do the best you can to describe your headache pain by using descriptive works like:  

Make sure to give an accurate description of your treatments, medical and family headache history, and impacts on life. The frequency you experience a headache is crucial for diagnosis and

treatment.   

Learn about the VHA Headache Center of Excellence here. This program aims to provide Veterans with the highest-quality headache care.