Migraine Headaches Support Group

Migraine is a neurological disease, of which the most common symptom is an intense and disabling episodic headache. Migraine headaches are usually characterized by severe pain on one or both sides of the head and are often accompanied by photophobia (hypersensitivity to light), phonophobia (hypersensitivity to sound) and nausea.

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tuxedomck 04/02/2015

I have had issues with headaches since I was a child. Recently they have been getting worse and happening more often. Sometimes migraines, sometimes not. Now in addition to that I am feeling a sort of heaviness in my head, on both sides. The headaches and migraines are usually just on one side. But the pressure surrounds my entire head. The other night I had some inner ear pain as well and dizziness/lightheaded- this is new.

I feel like nothing works. No OTC meds, Imitrex doesn't help, I eat a perfectly clean diet, and just tried accupuncture. I just called my dr to figure out what to do next, but was told that she is out of the office the entire month. I have no idea what to do now. I am at a loss. I also suffer from several other mood disorders, and so these headaches hinder any progress I make with those.

YvetteK 04/02/2015

A general primary care doctor is not someone you should have treating your migraine headaches. They are not up on the latest treatments available. It doesn't surprise me that you were prescribed imitrex. It was the very first triptan on the market (an abortive). Now there are a lot more. I can't take imitrex. For me, it would be like taking a tic tac.

Who you should be seeing is a headache specialist. NOT just a neurologist. Neurologists get some training in headaches, but that is not their specialty. Look for an actual headache specialist. Do some research on your computer and try to find one close to you. You will be surprised how many doors will open for you in terms of treatment.

Good luck

tuxedomck 04/02/2015

Thank you so much for your response.

How to I find a headache specialist?? I've been searching the web but i'm at a loss. I live in the DC metro area.

thelmanlouise 04/02/2015

A suggestion would be to call your health insurance and see who is covered as a Headache specialist/Neurologist. Your primary care office may be able to give you some suggestions even in your Dr. absence. Someone should be covering while your doc is away.
As YvetteK said, there are many meds out there now that can help you to ease Headaches and help prevent them.
Good luck,
Carol

YvetteK 04/02/2015

There is a website called mychronicmigrain.com You can also search using phrases like: Headache specialist DC, or Headache Center Washington DC. You will definitely find someone who treats just headaches and migraines.

No one should live like this, and PC docs just don't know enough. I swear, you will find relief with the right doctor.

tuxedomck 04/03/2015

Thank you. I have found 2 that are accepted by my insurance. i will contact them next week after I see my psychiatrist. I have been switching around meds a lot as well, so that could be another reason. Thanks!

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