I self diagnosed myself with Hypnic headaches. Middle of the night Migraines started about 7 years ago in my mid 60s. I at first thought it must be sleep apnea but I passed my sleep test. I had a CT of my head and was seen by a Neurologist- all was normal. By the time I saw the Neurologist a few years ago, I was already treating myself with one Excedrin at bedtime. It works very well but if I forget to take it - I wake up 2-3 in the morning with the Migraine. Like other posts - I have to get out of bed and sit up - I, at that point take an Excedrin and the headache subsides. That is the only time I take abortive meds. The Neurologist suggested that I may have rebound headache, but since I only usually take the Excedrin as a preventative, I do not agree.
I think few doctors know and understand Hypnic headaches. They are terrible!
I also get Airplane headache - usually with a rapid descent in altitude - I usually just take a couple Aleve before descent which prevents. I also get an occasional mild regular migraine. The Neurologist did not think any of these were related. Other than the headaches, I am healthy, normal weight, very active and not on any meds.
Additionally- I usually take the Aspirin free Excedrin to avoid stomach issues.
I hope posts like these help more people and that there is more research into the problem