Episode notes
Episode 55 of The Health Exchange Podcast dives into the science, stigma, and real-world impact of migraines with neurologist Dr. Philip O’Carroll and pain management specialist Dr. Richard Paicius. Dr. Rutland leads a wide-ranging conversation on why migraines are not “just headaches,” but complex neurological and inflammatory events shaped by genetics, hormones, brain signaling, and lived experience. The episode explores how migraines are misdiagnosed, why women are disproportionately affected, and how central nervous system sensitization, trauma, and emotional stress can drive chronic pain. From breakthrough CGRP medications and Botox to nerve blocks and emerging psychedelic therapies, the doctors explain how modern, precision-based treatments are transforming care—while emphasizing that empathy, accurate diagnosis, and coordinated, whole-pers ...