What type of migraines can cause a neurological deficit and are therefore disqualifying?

Migraines that cause a neurological deficit are particularly significant because they can produce symptoms that mimic more severe neurological conditions, such as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or strokes. This type of migraine is associated with aura symptoms that may result in motor, sensory, or visual disturbances, leading to functional impairments during an episode.

Due to the unpredictable nature and severity of these deficits, individuals experiencing migraines with neurological deficits may be at increased risk during activities that require a high level of cognitive and motor function, such as driving or operating machinery. As such, these cases can be deemed disqualifying in contexts that prioritize safety, ensuring that those affected are not putting themselves or others at risk by engaging in activities that demand full neurological function.

Chronic migraines and migraines with aura may present challenges, but they do not inherently qualify as disqualifying conditions unless they specifically result in neurological deficits during attacks. Cluster migraines, while extremely painful, do not typically cause the type of temporary loss of neurological function that is relevant to this assessment. Thus, identifying migraines that directly lead to neurological deficits is essential in determining fitness for duty in certain roles.