When You Can’t Find the Words: Migraine, Brain Fog, and Language Aura

Have you ever known exactly what you wanted to say, but suddenly could not find the words?

In this episode of Migraine Heroes Podcast, host Diane Ducarme explores why migraine can disrupt language, memory, and mental clarity. We look at the difference between common migraine brain fog and a possible speech or language aura, including the warning signs that should never be ignored.

You’ll discover:

🧠 Why familiar words can suddenly feel unreachable during a migraine

🧠 How to distinguish cognitive slowing and brain fog from a possible language aura

🧠 When sudden speech or language changes require immediate medical attention

This episode will help you better understand what may be happening in your brain and respond with greater clarity rather than fear.

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References:

• Clinical Features of Migraine With Aura: A REFORM Study (Thomsen et al., 2024): This study describes the frequency, duration, and progression of different migraine aura symptoms. Read more here.
• Underestimated Phenomena: Higher Cortical Dysfunctions During Migraine Aura (Petrusic et al., 2013): This study shows that language, memory, recognition, and movement-planning difficulties may occur during aura. Read more here.
• Cognitive Dysfunction During Migraine Attacks: A Study on Migraine Without Aura (Gil-Gouveia et al., 2015): This study examines temporary cognitive difficulties during migraine attacks without aura. Read more here.
• Cognitive Assessment During the Phases of a Spontaneous Migraine (Ray et al., 2024): This study tracks cognitive performance before, during, and after spontaneous migraine attacks. Read more here.
• Mapping the Migraine: Intracranial Recording of Cortical Spreading Depression in Migraine With Aura (McLeod et al., 2025): This case report directly recorded cortical spreading depression during a migraine aura. Read more here.
• Stroke Symptoms and Warning Signs (American Stroke Association): This guide explains the B.E. F.A.S.T. warning signs that require immediate emergency attention. Read more here.
• Migraine With Aura (International Headache Society): These criteria define migraine aura and its visual, sensory, language, motor, brainstem, and retinal symptoms. Read more here.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for providing medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.

For women, men, and children who suffer from migraine disease, Migraine Heroes is your go-to resource for understanding, managing, and overcoming migraine attacks.

We cover all types of migraines and related headaches, including primary and secondary migraines, chronic migraines, and cluster migraines. We dive deep into the complexities of migraine with aura and migraine without aura, as well as rarer forms like hemiplegic migraine, retinal migraine, and acephalgic migraine (silent migraine). Our discussions also extend to cervicogenic headaches, ice pick headaches, and pressure headaches, which often mimic migraine or contribute to overall migraine burden.