Oh boy.... Do I get migraines... I was hospitalized not 7 days ago for another one. I have had them ever since I was 12. I have seen doctors all across this country, as I have moved a lot, and I have read every item I can get my hands on. You may get lots of conflicting info, as everyone has different experiences, however, this is what I have discovered in over 25 years of migraines. One thing to keep in mind here, as I will be mentioning a lot of meds, is that my doctor has been working with me for years, and we have developed a trust where he is willing to keep me supplied with an arsenal of meds. I use different combinations of meds for different types of migraine. You will need to trial and error what meds will work for you, get samples of things first, and be prepared for them to possibly not work, or work wonderfully! Oh, and I am unable to use Imitrex or any of its littermates, as I have a violent almost allergic reaction to it. However some people swear by it!
Learn to Identify the different types you may have, I get several varieties. Most common is the least painful, and is caused usually by food or drink ingredients. primarily ASPARTAME! Avoid that stuff like the plague! it is horrible for you anyways, but if you are prone to migraines, it can be a powerful and almost immediate trigger! Wines, (primarily reds due to the tannins) heavily aged cheeses, chocholate, and caffiene, are all triggers for me. I do not have the self control to give up all my favorites, so I have learned to be careful, and all things in moderation. Since these are the most common, I have learned to deal with them with medication, Fioricet is always my first choice, Then I move up the potency ladder until I find the level that works, Amitriptaline, Phenergan, and finally Oxycodone and lorazapam. If that doesnt do the trick, its off to the emergency room
another variety of migraine for me, is of course stress or muscle related. these hit at various times of the day, and in a different section of my head, but can be just as debilitating, but I find I can control these myself with medication, Fioricet (with or without codeine,) and flexoril are my arsenal for those.
The rarest, and worst type for me, are the 'Aura' migraines. (deep shudder) These I can not find the trigger for, and I think it is probably a combination of things. The Aura is an alteration of my ability to see. Often a silvery spot in my line of vision that may grow to partially or completely block my sight. It is painless, but frightening since 1. I cant see, and 2. I know the pain is coming! 3. during this type, I also often loose the power of intelligent speach! I think I am saying things ok, but my brain substitutes other words and I dont even know it. I have learned to not even attempt to drive, or possibly even walk, but to get immediate help from a loved one who understands what is going on. When this type hits, I dont bother with the little meds, I go straight for the big guns and go to bed.
Making your family aware of how they can help you, and setting up a system will possibly be able to help you deal with these in as subtle a fashion as possible. I have very room darkening shades, a few favorite movies that I use to calm and put myself to sleep. I also will often take the hottest shower I can stand, aiming the water at my neck and head. This helps to dilate the blood vessels, and is incredibly effective! I have a plaque on my front door that is cutesy, but on the reverse says "Shhhh Headache in progress" and everyone quietly respects it, and goes away!
Depending on the type and frequency of your migraines, dont be afraid of meds, they can be your best friend, and end a migraine in 6-12 hours. (if not immediately, if you can take things like Imitrex) I have avoided having to take daily meds so far, but I fear the time may yet come.
Avoid the doctors who treat you like it is all in your head, or condescending. Send them packing, and find a different one. Migraines are a real medical issue, and are caused by the constriction of blood vessels in your brain. This can not only cause pain, but behavioral changes! Dont try to make important decisions, or drive if you can avoid it! I havent wrecked yet, but I have had close calls until I figured that one out!
I hope I have been able to help, I have endless more input, but feel I have offered enough to start, if you have other questions, I can maybe help more. Please feel free to email or PM me if you want.
Good Luck!
