An estimated one in seven people live with migraine, yet the condition remains widely misunderstood despite being a complex neurological disorder that can have a significant impact on people's daily lives.

To mark this year's Migraine Awareness Day on Tuesday, September 22, Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust's Headache Service will be hosting an information stand in the exhibition space at Torbay Hospital from 9am to noon, offering advice and support to patients, visitors and staff.

Members of the team will be available to discuss migraines and headaches, explain the range of treatments available locally, and signpost people to further support and information.

The specialist Headache Service supports hundreds of people across the east of the South Hams including Totnes and Dartmouth through dedicated clinics, specialist treatments and innovative digital tools designed to help patients better manage their condition.

Led by specialty doctor Kathryn Medcalf, the service was established in 2017 and provides specialist assessment and treatment for people living with migraine and other headache disorders.

Dr Medcalf said: “For far too long, people have dismissed migraines as 'just a headache' rather than being recognised as a complex and potentially debilitating neurological disorder.

"For those living with migraine it has a significant impact on their quality of life, their ability to work and lead normal day-to-day lives, and has a huge negative impact on that person's mental health.

"We want people to know that help is available. While there is currently no cure for migraine, there are a number of effective treatments that can make a real difference and, in many cases, can be life changing."

Available treatments include Botox injections, greater occipital nerve injections (GONI), oral medications and CGRP monoclonal antibody therapies, which were the first preventative medicines specifically developed for migraine treatment.

As well as providing treatment to existing patients, the team is supporting people who have been referred by their GP and are waiting for a specialist appointment.

Through the CONNECTPlus app, patients can access trusted information and self-management resources to help them better understand and manage their symptoms while awaiting assessment.

The app provides personalised information about local services, support and self-management tools, alongside access to digital resources designed to support the long-term management of headache and migraine conditions.

CONNECTPlus also links to the Trust's MY CARE patient portal, enabling patients to view hospital appointments, letters and clinical information using their NHS login.

Dr Medcalf added: “We know that migraines can affect every aspect of a person's life. Many of our patients tell us that effective treatment means they can return to work, enjoy family life and regain their independence.

"Raising awareness is incredibly important because many people are unaware of the support and treatment options available.

“We would encourage anyone affected by migraine, whether personally or through a family member, to come and speak with our team on Migraine Awareness Day and find out more about the help available."

Anyone seeking further information about migraine management and treatment can visit The Migraine Trust website at: