Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Linke Leader Heidi Reichinnek Discloses Debilitating Migraine, Urges Openness in Politics

She says a strong medication she sometimes relies on impairs concentration during official duties.

Overview

  • Reichinnek told the Rheinische Post that migraine "burdens me massively" and forces difficult choices about keeping appointments despite symptoms.
  • She described using a very strong drug during severe attacks that reduces her ability to concentrate.
  • In April, she cited an active migraine during a ZDF Markus Lanz appearance when she could not answer a question, which drew ridicule from critics.
  • Reichinnek called for a more open approach to illness and disability in political life, arguing the Bundestag does not reflect people with chronic conditions.
  • Reporting cites RKI data estimating migraine affects 14.8% of women and 6% of men in Germany, with additional shares classified as probable migraine.