This hits really close to home for me.
I had severe migraines that would last for days over a 6-month period. I’d suffered periodic migraines from the age of 15 but this was something new where even when I didn’t have a “proper” migraine I still had a constant dull headache.
Nearly lost my job even after seeing the company doctor who noted that allowances needed to be made for my sick leave. Saw a neurologist, got an MRI, kept going to the doctor, and no diagnosis came out of it. I eventually had a seizure for the first time in my life and was rushed to hospital.
Finally, got a diagnosis of chronic daily migraines and was put on medication that has controlled them, but the damage it did to my career set me back by years. I was a high performer prior and then I was suddenly blacklisted from promotions because of my sick leave.
My heart really goes out to people struggling with the same pain who have yet to find something that works.
I’m not surprised to see the number of people suffering from regular migraines. They seem really common, it would be interesting to know how that has changed over time, and any triggers (my first guess would be screens).
It sucks you were blacklisted due to sick leave. One benefit of me jumping jobs every couple of years is there’s no history for people to complain about!