Severe Headaches and difficulty in breathing

Dear Ask The Doctor: During school time, as usual I would copy the notes and stuffs. At one time, I will get headache and my breathing would be impossible. I tried to breathe hard but I just couldn't. The next thing that will happen is my whole body will become numb. My blood circulation will be stopped and it would be so hard to focus in real life. My whole body will become weak and I will fall down on the floor. The pain is so hard I couldn't even bear it. The weird thing is I never fainted before in my life. After half an hour, everything would be normal again. And I would feel very very sleepy for about 4 hours. The thing is; I'm only 14 years old and this thing has occurred 3 times already. Do you know what is happening? Thanks so much.

Dear Harris: It is possible that what you're experiencing is a migraine episode. These headaches are due to changes in the brain and surrounding blood vessels. Migraine headaches typically last from 4-72 hours and vary in frequency from daily to less than 1 per year. The headaches are usually preceded or accompanied by warning symptoms (Auras), flashes of light, blind spots or tingling in arms and/or legs, nausea, vomiting, hypersensitivity to light and sound. Fatigue and muscle tension are also common. I suggest that you get an evaluation by a neurologist in order to determine the best treatment option which includes medications (pain-relieving and preventive), lifestyle changes that can help ease the pain (muscle relaxation, meditation, yoga, get enough sleep, avoid wine, chocolate and cheeses).