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05 Jan 04 - 10:29 AM (#1086393) Subject: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Morticia I have had three in as many weeks, with only a few days respite in between. They are more severe and with a higher amount of nausea than usual.Any other sufferers out there who might know why or have been through similar? I can't pin point any life style changes that would be significant and although my stress levels were a little high, they are settling again now, so not that, I don't think.Any input would be gratefully recieved. |
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05 Jan 04 - 10:57 AM (#1086414) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: *daylia* Morticia, I do not suffer from migraines myself so I have no direct experiences to share. I do know quite a few sufferers who have found relief using various holistic methods, or a combination of allotropic/holistic methods, though. This rather extensive migraine/headache information site and discussion forum at About.com might have some helpful information for you -- Headaches 101. I hope so! All the best, daylia |
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05 Jan 04 - 11:02 AM (#1086422) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Catherine Jayne Terri.......if you haven't done already...and I know you don't like them.....but PLEASE go to the doctor..... Lots of Love Khatt |
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05 Jan 04 - 11:05 AM (#1086425) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Jeri Mine are associated with hormones, air pressure, and certain types of stress. I used to have some clue when I'd be in the 'zone' because of predictable hormonal fluctuation. Now, I'm of an age when my hormones are going batshit, so the migraines just surprise me. Air pressure: storms kick of my migraines. Sometimes before, sometimes during, and sometimes after. I think it's the changes in air pressure. Stress can do it, but not all types. I hardly ever got a headache from work: racing to meet a deadline, butting heads with people, or any sort of 'worry'. Driving long distances and lack of sleep, on the other hand, have a high probability of causeing a migraine. Diet is usually considered to be a big factor, and there are certain known 'trigger' foods such as red wine, tomatoes, and chocolate. I haven't found that food make much of a difference for me but it does for many migraineurs. Caffeine withdrawal can cause headaches, and caffeine can help make them go away. One other thing - there's such a thing as 'rebound' headaches that feel a lot like migraines. They're actually caused by various drugs used to treat headaches (anti-inflammatories, and analgesics) and can get you stuck in a cycle. If this isn't just a one-off episode, I'd check with my doctor. There are loads of prescription meds that can help prevent migraines, and one herbal preventative - feverfew. It works for me and I've never had any side effects. It's also recognized by main-steam doctors (at least in the US) as being effective. |
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05 Jan 04 - 11:13 AM (#1086431) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: harpgirl I can not go into a sauna without becoming bedridden, vomiting up my socks and being out of it for three days. Steam baths also do this to me. I can go in a hot tub or a hot bath. Wind triggers them, like standing at the bow of a cruise ship which I will never do again, and sun and wind together also do me in. I am triggered by chocolate of a certain quality and sometimes the sulfites in wines. Barometric pressure changes also do me in. If I try to avoid my triggers, I can keep them at bay for the most part. |
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05 Jan 04 - 11:17 AM (#1086436) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Peace Might help to 'head 'em off' before they take complete hold. My ex used to use ibuprofen (sp?) and gravol when she felt one coming. Then she'd lay down until the 'aura' passed. It helped her very much. (I don't think she's had one since we broke up.) Check with a pharmacist (druggist) about the combo, and it would be a real good idea for you to see a doctor. Really. Bruce M |
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05 Jan 04 - 11:28 AM (#1086442) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Gypsy My sister uses Imitrex...injectable. I am not big on drugs for my migraines, cuz they generally don't work for me. Chiropractic can help quite a bit..........are you a "migraine" personality? Try meditation, it helps. I can count on at least one good migraine a month. Ice water to drink while in a hot bath can help, if you have the time for it. |
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05 Jan 04 - 11:28 AM (#1086443) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Arnie I used to suffer regularly from migraines but now they have thankfully reduced to once or twice a year - no known reason for the reduction but I'm not complaining. However, when one strikes, the only cure for me is to take two Migraleve pink tablets (UK brand). After taking them I close my eyes for 10-15 mins (which is necessary anyway as I get distorted vision during the migraine). After 10-15 mins the migraine has gone! I'm usually left with a slight pain behind the eyeballs but this goes during the day. If I don't take Migraleve pink, the damn thing just continues for up to an hour and I feel grotty all day. Not sure if you're in the UK or US Morticia, but if in the former, try the little pink pills - they always work for me! Good luck Arnie |
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05 Jan 04 - 11:53 AM (#1086460) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Little Hawk Discontinuing the practice of drinking coffee helped me a lot. At first (after quitting coffee) you may get headaches as withdrawal symptoms, but that phase doesn't last long, and then you get far fewer of them. Chocolate seems to trigger them in me sometimes, so I mostly avoid it. I don't know, however, if those are triggers for you or not. Here's a thought. Try drinking more water. Many people get headaches simply because they are dehydrated, and the water helps your body clear itself of toxic substances. If people drank a lot more water and a lot less tea, coffee, soft drinks, sweet drinks, and alcohol, they would be a whole lot better off. Take a lesson from nature, where every creature drinks water and enjoys it to the utmost. Which reminds me...I forgot to drink some water...again! It's easy to do when your mind is busy with other things. - LH |
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05 Jan 04 - 12:02 PM (#1086470) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: wysiwyg Air pressure, eyestrain, salt intake/imbalance/underhydration, raised BP due to any factor, electrolyte imbalances.... include these as you look for clues. ~S~ |
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05 Jan 04 - 12:12 PM (#1086477) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Bat Goddess Mine were strictly raging hormonal unbalance . . . although the exact time of the month changed several times during my (many) years of perimenopause. Sometimes too much estrogen (prostaglandin F2-alpha); sometimes estrogen drop off. I haven't had a migraine now in over a year. Didn't give feverfew enough of a chance -- it probably would have worked. As it was, nothing worked except burying my head in a pillow and trying to sleep until it went away -- and it usually left me shaky the next day, too. (And I was totally non-functional with the migraine.) I took ibuprophen, but I don't think it really helped much, just made me think I was doing something. Find a "health care practitioner" you trust, figure out what your triggers are, find something that works to avoid the migraines. Linn |
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05 Jan 04 - 12:28 PM (#1086490) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: CarolC My triggers are mostly foods and hormones (the foods are corn, chocolate, coconut, peanuts, and sometimes red wine). The foods don't always trigger them right away. Sometimes they don't hit until a day or two later. I use a tincture of Chaparral, without which, it would be very diffictul for me to function in any way whatsoever. I use about 30 drops in about 12 oz. of distilled water as often as needed. It doesn't always work immediately (although sometimes it does), but it does make an enormous difference in my quality of life. In fact, I'm drinking some right now. I also make every effort to avoid the foods that bother me (except sometimes the red wine ;-) Good luck Morticia. |
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05 Jan 04 - 12:37 PM (#1086495) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: NicoleC Another cause of migraines are food intolerances. We tend to develop intolerances to the foods we eat the most of (or rather TOO much of) -- in the west, that's often wheat or gluten, sometimes corn, rice, dairy, soy or other ubiquitous foods. If you have other symptoms, such as periodic bloating, insomnia, gas, heartburn, skin blemishes and other chronic annoyances -- but headaches and migraine are the biggest clue -- you might have a food intolerance. An allergy rotation diet can help you pinpoint if and what you may have a reaction to. Start with the common ones; completely eliminate all of a food, including byproducts and derivatives found on food labels, for 7 days. (Exception: dairy takes 21 days.) If you feel worse before you get better, that's probably it. If you experience no change, move on to the next food. The most likely candidate is the food you eat every day and experience the most mental resistance to cutting out. This may not be it for you, but for folks who do find it as the source of the cause of their migraines, the cure is permanent as long as you don't eat that food. And many people with food intolerances can eat that food occassionally after a period of detoxification and overall improved diet. YMMV. |
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05 Jan 04 - 12:38 PM (#1086496) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Jeri Arnie, if what you get only lasts an hour (and is pretty severe) it sounds more like a 'cluster headache'. See: Lots of information, big words: at this site on cluster headaches Canadian O.U.C.H. (Organization for Understanding Cluster Headache.. cute) Migraines usually last at least a day. |
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05 Jan 04 - 03:31 PM (#1086531) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: mg some people on the aromatherapy list recommended getting bottles of peppermint and lavendar essential oils...take one drop of each, mix together and rub on temples....good for other headaches as well....mixed results reported...peppermint can sting..don't use morethan 1 drop and maybe test before you have a headache someday.. mg |
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05 Jan 04 - 03:44 PM (#1086537) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Sorcha I only get one about once every 4 years...thank gods! The ONLY thing I can do is get someone to drive me to trauma and get a demerol/phenergan injection...zonks me out for about 12 hours, then I'm shaky for 2 days. Another big trigger is MSG.....and it is hidden everywhere. Also, raw onions and instant tea....see the Doc, Morty. |
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05 Jan 04 - 04:02 PM (#1086549) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Walking Eagle Ummm, I hate to be the wet blanket here but have you had an MRI taken of your head lately? I say this in a most kind and gentle way because, as a cancer survivor, when one was ordered for me I nearly took off for the moon. I know the fear, trust me. But for me, the fear of not knowing was worse that the fear OF knowing. I do know the fear, oh jeezus do I. I trust you will do what is best for YOU. With kindness, W.E. |
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05 Jan 04 - 04:31 PM (#1086568) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Alice Imitrex works for me. Mine started when I was 14 years old and are mostly related to hormone cycles. In perimenopause, I had a migraine every month instead of a you know what. Sleep deprivation triggers them for me, too. Good luck. Get some Imitrex. ALice |
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05 Jan 04 - 04:52 PM (#1086589) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Peg Yes, peppermint is VERY effective for headaches if you apply it as the headache is starting. It does burn the skin a wee bit if applied directly, but usually only for a moment or two. Don't apply too close to the eyes. You can also add it to almond or olive oil to dilute it slightly... It is also effective to merely inhale the peppermint essetial oil from the open bottle and this works well for the nausea that accompanies some headaches... I agree remaining hydrated by drinking plenty of water should help; most of the headaches I get start because I am dehydrated...coffee, black tea, soda, juice; these do not hydrate! Water and herbal tea are best. |
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05 Jan 04 - 04:54 PM (#1086590) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Morticia thanks for all your help and yes, I have now seen a doctor and am going to the hospital for some tests tomorrow... I know it's not food or hormone related because I have spent so long on that road trying to find a cause....best we can come up with is stress.My doc says classic migraine symptoms are always exactly that, i.e not a brain tumour or high blood pressure or any other nasty....we just need to find out why I'm having so many and why so severe. I've made a note of all your remedies though and will try each one.....heaven knows, I'd do pretty much anything to zap the little sucker. Once again, thanks for your help....I'm going to bed to feel a bit sorry for myself now.*G* |
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05 Jan 04 - 05:15 PM (#1086602) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Metchosin Over the years I have tried all manner of natural (no luck) and heavy duty prescription medication (bad side effects), none of which were very effective, particularly if the migraine was fully underway. My doctor also had me keep a diary of what I ate to determine any food triggers. (peanut butter seemed the only one.) What usually triggers mine are large fluctuations in air pressure. Fortunately, I do not seem to get them as often as I used to, but still have bouts of cluster ones once or twice a year. What eventually worked for me are two acetomenephen with caffiene and codiene at the immediate outset. I never have had any real significant pain or nausea and vomiting since I have started doing this, although, I'm still pretty useless sightwise until the aura passes. I'm also a bit dizzy and light headed afterwards for awhile, which could be the caffiene and codiene addition to the acetomenephen, but I would trade this anyday for the relief I have. I believe you can't get painkillers with caffiene and codiene in them without a prescription in the US, but fortunately for me in Canada, they are available over the counter from the pharmacy here. |
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05 Jan 04 - 05:48 PM (#1086636) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Sorcha I don't have any aura, or build up at all....BAM! My head is being taken off by a jackhammer.....can't imagine these every week....I would be worthless. Sometimes a constriction bandage tied tight around my head helps a little until the drugs kick in. Have to be in the dark to...light is just too painful. |
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05 Jan 04 - 06:28 PM (#1086668) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Liz the Squeak Have you had any sudden stops in the car recently? I had a migraine for a week and a headache daily for 2 more weeks when I reversed into a post. Everyone else in the car was fine. I didn't realise I had a whiplash injury for 3 weeks. They did all sorts of tests and finally put me in a neck collar - it was like turning a switch off. If you've had any sudden stops or big bumps, anything that could have thrown your neck out, it's worth mentioning to the drs. Take care dear. LTS |
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05 Jan 04 - 06:55 PM (#1086685) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Joybell I've had Migraines all my life. As a kid I thought that everyone had the visual disturbances before they vomited - as a warning! I was 17, and a student nurse, before I knew what they were. Anyway a doctor once told me that taking THREE Asprin AT THE AURA stage ie. before your system shuts down, is a possible solution. It works so well for me that I no longer get the headache, or the nausea. I just feel a bit seedy for the rest of the day. I can enjoy the aura and the "Alice in Wonderland" effect it gives me and the euphoria that goes with it. Joy |
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05 Jan 04 - 06:59 PM (#1086691) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Little Hawk Yeah, I have to be in the dark too, with something cold over my eyes, and just conk out for a few hours. I once cured a pretty bad headache (when I was a teenager) by saying to myself, "Crazy Horse wouldn't let something like this thing be stronger than him and ruin his day."...and bingo! The headache was gone totally in about 2 minutes or less! Alas...I was never able to focus clearly enough on that particular idea again to make it work for curing headaches. I'm probably just too lazy by nature. :-) I must have been very strongly focused on that day, and you have to bear in mind that Crazy Horse was a very significant figure to me, specially at that age. (It was a sort of religious experience, I'd have to say.) I am not attempting to reflect usefully or not on anyone else's personal circumstances by telling this story, but I think it's an interesting one in its own right. It was a case of mind over matter. - LH |
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05 Jan 04 - 08:46 PM (#1086749) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Sorcha But, what do you do if there is no aura, or warning signs at all? I just hit the floor in extreme pain...all of a sudden...thank the gods it's only once every few years...I never have visual stuff going on, just pain and vomiting...well, once I had total blindness for about 24 hrs....that was scary. |
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05 Jan 04 - 10:20 PM (#1086784) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Jeri I don't get warning signs either, but although sometimes I wake up with a full-blown migraine, most of mine start slow. The problem is, most of those slight headaches never turn into migraines, so taking something whenever I get a little bit of pain isn't an option. I tried it though, and it still didn't work. Good drugs are the only thing that works 100% of the time, and they basically kill the pain until the migraine goes away on its own. I had a friend who'd just go blind in one eye ('ocular migraine') - no other symptoms at all. Technical stuff: the ones with an aura are 'classical migraines' the ones without are 'common migraines'. Personally, I don't feel there's much 'common' about them. ("Oh, yeah...it's just one of those routine, head-splitting, barfing-your-brains-out, you'd-cut-your-own-head-off-with-a-dull-axe-if-it-lasted-long-enough headaches. No big deal.") |
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05 Jan 04 - 11:39 PM (#1086829) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage Migraines run in families, and they're in mine. My mother and aunt used to experience only the aura, not the actual headache. I seasonally experience something akin to an aura due to photo-sensitivity and allergies. My son is the one who suffers from the headaches, and he has had them since he was about 6 years old. He takes nightly amytripyline, but still has break-through headaches. They have the periodicity of the cluster headaches that that web site discusses, but the similarities end there. If you find something that works, I hope you'll post it for the rest of us to think about. SRS |
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05 Jan 04 - 11:44 PM (#1086830) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage P.S. the one migraine I did have caused a temporary blindness in one eye. I could only see half of things because there was a large blind spot that formed in my left eye. The headache began a couple of hours after this vision problem materialized. It was misdiagnosed as a small stroke and I operated on that misassumption for years. Then on the Diane Rehm morning talk show a couple of years ago an expert in the field of headaches was discussing this and described exactly my symptom. What an eye opener, so to speak! |
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06 Jan 04 - 12:12 AM (#1086841) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: DonMeixner Lack of sleep and stress for me. Never during a stressfull episode but always on the back side of an event. I'm probably due for one now infact. It will hit out of the blue and I'll be in total darkness for 8-12 hours with an ice mask on my face. It hurts like hell to close my eyes, the effort is just too much. If I move I'll barf. If a light goes on I'll barf,. Imitrex does nothing at all, Duraden(sp), does almost as much. I just have to wait it out, hopefully I'll fall asleep but that rarely happens. Good luck Don |
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06 Jan 04 - 12:20 AM (#1086846) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Little Hawk I definitely get the "aura" stage gradually coming on at first, and it can sometimes by headed off with aspirin and rest. - LH |
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06 Jan 04 - 01:59 AM (#1086874) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Metchosin Sorry, my suggestion obviously won't work if you don't get any warnings Sorcha. Perhaps mine are weird, but I sometimes know I'm getting one even before I get the blind spot with surrounding shiney lights and patterns. My first symptoms before the aura are sometimes extreme sensitivity to smell and taste, a change in the taste of my saliva, a sensitivity to light and sometimes my nose gets cold. I vividly remember my first one, at age 15, which my mother then termed a bilious attack? When I was in my early 20's the doctor I had at the time, told me that there was nothing wrong with me, that it was all in my head (yeah, right!) and if I just got up, opened my curtains and cleaned up my apartment, I'd be right as rain. That particular episode lasted almost a week and I recall stopping my car on the highway out to my Mother's house to do my laundry, as the doctor ordered, and vomiting out the door two or three times along the way. I also found out that when you puke up alkaseltzer, it still fizzes up to 1/2 hour after drinking it. |
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06 Jan 04 - 03:40 AM (#1086894) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,JTT I thought I was getting migraines for ages - horrifying headaches that only gave up after I puked my guts up (sorry!) and then slept for hours. I'd get them when i'd been overdoing things - working too long hours, driving frantically to deliver copy, trying to keep a set of clashing schedules. Then I discovered that I had a slight but constant sinus infection. I did a few things: sane-tised my schedules and cut back on work, started taking regular walks, and in summer sea swims, made sure to get regular sleep, kept away from cigarette smoke when possible. The main thing, though, was to wash out the sinuses with warm water with sea salt in it - this is an old cure, but it works. And when you find a headache coming on, there's a gadget sold by Vick's - a cup within a mask, essentially, which you fill with hot water and a couple of drops of Vick's or Olbas Oil, and breathe in the steam. And if a headache is coming on, it works to hit it with painkillers when it's only starting, and take to the bed for a couple of hours. It sounds impossible, but two hours' sleep can save you from 12 hours' pain. But if you've been drinking at all, *don't* take fizzy painkillers like the effervescent mixtures of soluble codeine and paracetemol. These apparently concentrate the alcohol and paracetemol together in your liver where they can damage it. |
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06 Jan 04 - 04:25 AM (#1086901) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Gurney Her Indoors has digested these posts with great interest, and has some new avenues to follow. Thanks. She is convinced that her migraines have something to do with her sinusitis, and when she gets them, she groans down the white telephone for hours. Nothing stays down, not even distilled water, so she is dehydrated too. Acupuncture made her worse! Steaming makes her worse. Drugs won't stay down. She never had one before the Change started. JTT, How do you wash out the sinuses with sea-water? Snuffle it up? Spray it up? Use a device? It is too late to swim by the time she knows. |
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06 Jan 04 - 05:25 AM (#1086928) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Arnie Jeri - thanks for letting me know that my 'migraines' are really cluster headaches - I'd never heard of these previously. They started in about 1986 and I've always described them as migraines but obviously they are not. In that case, my sympathies to all migraine sufferers 'cos they sound a whole lot worse than my condition which I find debilitating enough albeit of only short duration. Morticia - sorry to intrude on your migraine site with my cluster headache problem! Hope you find a cure or at least something that eases the pain. Arnie |
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06 Jan 04 - 06:13 AM (#1086947) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Joybell Cluster headaches are more common in men. Re knowing you are going to get a migraine - it happens sometimes with people who have epileptic fits. The change in sense of taste and smell are also sometimes found in both conditions. I knew a patient from my nursing days who was able to abort a fit by using a sort of self hypnosis. Some migraine sufferers are also able to do this but it's not an option for most of us. Dostoyevsky said his epileptic auras were the greatest experiences he ever had. That's not much consolation for those of us with migraine though is it? |
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06 Jan 04 - 06:54 AM (#1086966) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Dave the Gnome I am, touch wood, not a sufferer but on the point of sea water nasal washes I have started using a micro-spray called 'Sterimar'. I use it now, in conjunction with nasal steroids, to help keep nasal inflamation and recuring polyps at bay. It is a very convenient spray can that can be used anywhere at any time. Hope it helps someone! Cheers DtG |
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06 Jan 04 - 10:07 AM (#1087072) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Peg Liz has a point re; injuries. it might be time to consult a chiropractor to see if there are any spinal or muscular problems in the neck causing these headaches... |
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06 Jan 04 - 10:08 AM (#1087073) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage Gurney, I am posting the results of a Google search on neti pots. You fill it with warm water and a small amount of salt, bend over from the hips over a sink, tip your head to one side, put the spout of this thing into the upper nostril and let it wash through your sinuses and drain out the other side. Between what washes out and what you can dislodge by blowing your nose after it runs through, you can clean a lot of crud from your poor aching sinuses. Don't make the water too hot, and don't use too much salt. My ex gave me one of these, and it took me a while to get up the nerve to try it. But my kids use it willingly every so often when they have sinus problems, and it does help. SRS |
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06 Jan 04 - 10:52 AM (#1087113) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Jeri Arnie, I'm glad I was able to help. I don't think cluster headaches sound much better than migraines. Although they don't last as long, they appear suddenly and the pain sounds much more intense. For those who can't take pills, there are some medications and treatments that you spray up your nose. The neti pot looks very interesting. I get irritated sinuses frequently, and I also used to get sinus infections every time I had a cold. This thing wouldn't have prevented or cured the sinus infections, but it sure would have helped me get over them and ease some of the irritation. Now that someone's mentioned sinus infections and migraines, I've remembered this. When I became aware I was getting serious head pain, 'migraine' wasn't the first diagnosis. First, it was a cracked maxillary molar on that side of my head. The tooth was repaired, but I still had the pain. It was then I was diagnosed with a sinus infection and polyp in the maxillary sinus on that side of my head. That was treated, but I still got the headaches. I have a completely unprovable (and perhaps whacko) theory that the pain sort of 'trained' the nerves to over-react and make the blood vessels dilate and cause the headaches. Non-sentient post-traumatic stress syndrome or something. Would the sinus and tooth problems have kicked this headache stuff off (if that's actually what happened) if they were minor enough that I wasn't really aware of them? I think so. I was aware I'd had a cold, but not that I had a sinus infection or polyp - I didn't really have pain, just a feeling of stuffiness. I was aware the tooth was screwed up, but if I didn't chew on that side or get cold liquid near it, it didn't hurt. |
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06 Jan 04 - 11:05 AM (#1087120) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage My Neti pot is like the first one on the list, the little white ceramic pot that could easily be confused with a single-serving restaurant tea pot! |
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06 Jan 04 - 05:56 PM (#1087392) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Hawker Morticia, My migraines stopped suddenly after the removal of one ovary and a hysterectomy, I went into premature menopause and once I had got over the 'Change' have NEVER had a migraine since, it may well be hormone related? I send you healing thoughts and hope that you find some help from all the suggestions, I sympathise with you. Regards, Lucy |
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06 Jan 04 - 09:41 PM (#1087554) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: LilyFestre Ohhhhhhhhh...I feel for you...migraines are THE WORST. I don't know specifically what sets them off in me but I do know that complete silence and darkness are my friend. I'd say try to sleep if you can....but I know I never can...the nausea just won't allow for it. To fine relief, I do 2 things...and don't laugh because it does seem to relieve the pain. #1. I concentrate on my toes. Why? Because they don't hurt. #2. Stick your finger down your throat and puke. I know, I know...it's gross and disgusting...but honestly, once that is over I feel about 90% better and am able to sleep the rest of it away. I can only speak for myself, but whether I wait until Mother Nature takes her course or if I induce it myself...the pain remains. Why wait? I'm not a medical professional and would suggest that you seek help there....these 2 things are what works for me...with any luck, maybe they will provide some relief for you too. Be well. Michelle |
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06 Jan 04 - 10:22 PM (#1087570) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage My son curls up in a ball, covers his forehead, and sleeps. Often a two or three hour nap takes care of it. If he throws up, that helps it go away faster, but he throws up maybe one out of 10 headaches. Sometimes if he gets motrin early enough it goes away with a power nap or with no nap at all. About 1/4 of the time he puts himself to bed and just stays there the rest of the night and is fine by morning. He usually gets these in the late afternoon or evening. My photo-sensitivity is worst in the morning. Don't know what the difference might be. SRS |
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07 Jan 04 - 02:57 AM (#1087673) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Morticia I think the time issues are interesting.....when I get a migraine, it is remarkable, irespective of what I do, if it is gone in much before 3/4 days and on those occasions, I wouldn't call it a migraine, I would call it a tension headache.No less painful, but mercifully short lived. |
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07 Jan 04 - 03:17 AM (#1087676) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: mouldy I've had them for 40 years, and was initially told by the doctor that they were sinus-related. They're not. Feeling stuffy is just one of the symptoms I sometimes get, and I can't stand to sleep in a stuffy room anyway. I can't drink alcohol because it's one of my triggers. Chocolate late at night sets me off, usually during the early hours, as does eating a meal very late at night. Biscuits can be a beggar late at night too. Cheese doesn't seem to bother me, but I can't take rich milky drinks late on. Another problem I have is the addition of hormonal factors into the mixture, although hopefully that will "sort out" soon. I also have neck and shoulder problems, mainly on the right side, thanks to dancing border morris opposite a large bloke, meeting the strength of his sticking straight on, and giving back as good as I got. Often headaches "settle" into my neck and head and take some removing. They then present as cluster headaches. If I do any work involving raising my arms above shoulder height or squeezing, such as pruning shrubs, it shoots right up into my head and neck. Sometimes the day after a heavy squeezebox session sees me with problems. Lengthy driving sessions too, with my arm raised on the steering wheel and the unconscious gripping of the wheel. I also have slightly high blood pressure, which I now have tablets for...tablets that are also used to treat migraine! My headaches are fewer now, and seem to go off quicker with treatment. My teenage daughter had a problem, and was put onto propanolol for a year or so. It really reduced the frequency of her headaches. She still gets them, but mainly when she's been overdoing it. They can last a few days, but like me, when the tablets don't work, she's learnt to grit her teeth and get on with it. They aren't the full-blown "classic" migraines with the aura. They're just nauseus one-sided headaches that lurk around your system for days, coming and going. Andrea (who usually gets on the phone to Tig and gets her to come and give one of her wonderful massages). |
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07 Jan 04 - 06:45 AM (#1087788) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Two_bears Morticia: I have had migranes for years. and have been prescribed Midrin, and later Zomig for them. What helped me more than anything was keeping a log of the food I ate, then after a migrane, I would note when the migrane happened in the log, then continue with my log. After two months of keeping the log; I noticed that I had eaten wheat products a day or so before the migrane. I eliminated all wheat from my diet (no cereal with wheat bran, no bread, no pasta, etc and my frequency of migranes reduced dramaticaly. My most recent migrane was mid November. Your migranes may be from another cause, or you may have the same or different food trigger. I hope this helps. |
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07 Jan 04 - 06:53 AM (#1087795) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Two_bears > Didn't give feverfew enough of a chance -- it probably would have > worked. I tried feverfew; but only took one dose of it. I had an alergic reaction to Feverfew and had to toss the capsules. My mouth and throat started tingling, then my throat started swelling. If you want to try feverfew; be my guest; but listen to the signals from your body. |
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07 Jan 04 - 06:59 AM (#1087800) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Two_bears > some people on the aromatherapy list recommended getting bottles of > peppermint and lavendar essential oils...take one drop of each, mix > together and rub on temples Please use caution when applying pure essential oils directly to the skin. Most people have no problem with pure lavender oil applied to the skin; but most people report a severe burning sensation where peppermint essential oil was applied to the skin. |
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07 Jan 04 - 09:27 AM (#1087896) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: The O'Meara I've had classic migraines since I was a kid. They got much worse after Vietnam. I think the problem in dealing with them is that both physical and psychological factors are involved. An excellent psychologist told me "You get migraines from wanting to run away and not doing it." I'm pretty sure they are stress triggered, although not necessarily "caused" by stress. Even that is tricky. For example many migraines happen on a weekend when you should be relaxed and not stressed. But the fact is you are still revved up psychologically form the week befoire but now you are just sitting around and not doing anything and the steam builds up until the migraine happens. Or a migraine can be a way to check out of a stressful situation for awhile, and so on. It used to be that conventional wisdom said that a child would "grow out of them" after adolescence.I expect that's true in many cases since adolescence is extremely stressful and when that stress is gone the headaches would diminish. But the pain and the other symptoms are physical and very real, caused by expanded blood vessels in the brain. The only thing that helped for me was a painkiller and euphoric called Fiorinol. The trouble was that while I started out taking them when I got a migraine, I progressed to taking them for any headache in case it might become a migraine, then to taking them in case I might get a headache, and then I was hooked big time. With the help of shrinks and MDs at a Veteran's hospital I got off the stuff and started taking verapamil, which is a med originally for angina but found to lower blood pressureand and prevent migraines in some people. That was in 1985 and I still get the aura and visual problems occasionally but no full blown migraines since then. So the gist of this windy war story is try verapamil and see if you can figure out your stress business. I really do hate long-winded war stories. But that reminds me of the time I was surrounded by hostile natives and I was armed with nothing but... O'Meara |
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07 Jan 04 - 07:41 PM (#1088368) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: mouldy One thing my mum used to say was that you get migraines when you have time to have them, ie: AFTER stress. The best thing I ever took was in S. Africa. Knowing that mine were possibly partly stress related as well, I was given Migril (ergotamine) and Stopayne (Aspirin, Paracetamol, Meprobamate). I was floating, and only occasionally had to take a second dose! Unfortunately they are not available in the UK as Meprobamate is not used anymore here, being addictive. Pity. Andrea (whose BP check today showed an improvement!) |
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07 Jan 04 - 09:14 PM (#1088418) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: rock chick I suffer from cluster migraine, and have done so for years, these last for 4 days, I know on the 5th I will be fine, I have had a MRI and there was nothing there (no puns please ;o) the only relief I get is from a drug called MAXALT, this is brill, but it's so tempting to use every time one comes on and this in itself is not a good thing, so every now and then I go cold turkey and suffer. I can have up to 3 a month, that's a long time in bed. I am convinced these are caused by stress, and hormones. To be honest different medicines work for different sufferers. I hate taking any medication, but then if you are suffering, then to be honest anything goes. Try everything and anything. I keep hoping I will grow out of them!!!!!!!!!!!! Some hope. |
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07 Jan 04 - 10:12 PM (#1088443) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage On the more general topic of headaches, I used to get them all of the time, mostly sinus-types, and when I stopped eating or drinking dairy products they went away. I only get that type of headache for a day or two after I've eaten something with milk or cheese. I miss cheese and yogurt, but I don't miss the headaches! |
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07 Jan 04 - 11:02 PM (#1088453) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Metchosin mouldy, I used to be prescribed something similar called Wigraine here in Canada. It contained ergotamine, caffeine and belladonna, among other stuff and you were supposed to keep repeating the prescribed dosage every 1/2 hour? until your symptoms subsided. And yeah, you could float. What I do remember clearly, one time, after a particularly bad bout when I took a total of 3 Wigraine over the course of an evening, was my husband sittting up all night holding my hand, pleading to take me to the hospital. A dose of 3 caused the symptoms of a severe panic attack and my heart raced so badly that we were worried I was going to drop dead. Scary stuff. Hormones may not play a big part with mine, as I had a hysterectomy about 17 years ago, (boy, did that knock the hysteria out of me! *BG*) and I discontinued hormone replacement about 5 years ago, but my pattern of migraines still continues, although I have noticed an increase in whiskers on my chin. Stress? Life is stress, I embrace it, I don't think I would even relish a small room, totally stress free. |
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08 Jan 04 - 08:58 AM (#1088637) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Donuel The 3 things that do work: At the very first inkling of a migraine, take an unbearably hot shower and 3 aspirins. It will interrupt the vascular pattern of shrinking and swelling of cerebral blood vessels and bypass the headache. (do not put this off for even 30 minutes or it will not work) If your body readily reacts to left handed synthetic narcotics like Vicodin it will control a migraine even in midstream. (some people have no receptors for these mirror image narcotic molecules) Should you live long enough they will dissipate in your 40's and fifties. While the pain will not be present, the cycle of vasular constriction and other abnormalities associated with migriane will still be present. Its not really a good thing to be of diminished capacity and not be fully aware of it! (Something good to know) Should you suffer from migraines your blood vessels are quite used to swelling and shrinking. You will be able to consciously control them through self imposed deep relaxation to the point you can lower your diastolic pressure by 10 points and your systolic by 20. Being attuned to this is an individual matter of self awareness. |
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08 Jan 04 - 10:26 AM (#1088677) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Jeri Donuel, regarding left handed drugs, I've never heard of them. I remember a science fiction novel that involved the protagonist being in a mirror-image world and couldn't digest any food because it was all left-handed. What a great thing for diets! (Or is that what Olestra IS?) The right-handed drugs work well enough for me. The hot shower: I always suspected that might work, but I have little chance of getting in in less than 30 minutes. The only thing that lets me know I may be headed for a migraine is when I can't get warm. If it happens in the winter, it's hard to identify a vascular reason for the coldness as opposed to just being cold. I've tried taking a hot bath when I have a migraine, but 10 minutes out and I'm frozen again. A couple of people I knew who suffered the worst migraines were in their 60s. It's probable that increased age will mean diminishing headaches, but I don't think it's universally true. As to conscious control of blood vessel constriction/dilation, yes, I do think that's possible, and probably much easier than people believe. I had surgery on my finger under a nerve block and for some bizarre reason, they chose to do this in an operating theater and hook me up to various monitors. They wouldn't let me watch the surgery and I was bored out of my skull, so I played with my heart rate. Got it down to about 50, but as soon as I quit paying attention, it went right back to what it would normally have been. Migraines often involve blood vessels in a localized area (I believe) so it's hard to target them. There's no machine you can hook up to tell you if you're doing anything right. The irritation caused by blood vessel dilation probably wouldn't go away fast enough to be able to feel success. It just might be that if one could target and constrict the right vessels, and keep it up long enough, it would have a lasting effect, since (unlike messing with heart rate), they're just being put back to normal. |
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08 Jan 04 - 12:12 PM (#1088738) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Morticia I have lived that long Donuel and am about to hit exactly mid forties....if anything they have become much more problematic since I hit forty. I haven't been proscribed anything that will stop them, ever....and I've tried lots of different drugs ( not sure whether they were left or right handed though).....the best the doctors could come up with was controlling the pain....and that with drugs which leave me with horrible side effects so eventually I don't know what is migraine and what is drugs, a bit like the rebound headaches Jeri was describing earlier.I have to wean myself off the one to check out the other.That's what I've been doing today but only lasted til four until I couldn't take the pain anymore. |
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08 Jan 04 - 02:10 PM (#1088822) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Jeri Morti, I've found that when the migraine has given up and I'm left with a re-bound headache, an 800 mg Ibuprophen tablet will work. They help with migraines (if my stomach complies) but they can completely get rid of the rebounds. Metchosin, my doctor experimented on me with Cafragot (not sure I spelled that right) - a combination of ergotamine and caffeine. I was supposed to take up to 6 pills. I think that's the equivalent of a whole pot of coffee, if not more. I'm not particularly caffeine tolerant. I got up to three and my heartbeat went whacko (pre-ventricular contractions - not life-threatening but very distracting), I got a SEVERE case of heartburn and I was bouncing off walls (and I get manic when I have a headache anyway, much like a cluster headache sufferer). Plus, it had no effect whatsoever on the headache. |
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08 Jan 04 - 02:13 PM (#1088828) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,Lyle Don't know how good this is, but the "Old Farmers Almanac" for 2004 (page 140) says this: "Feel a headache coming on? Pinch yourself. Specifically, put the squeeze on the webbed area between the thum and first finger of either hand. Hold it for 30 seconds. Pressure applied here will stimulate nerve impulses to the brain and relax blood vessel dilation. Your headache won't have a chance to settle in." Doesent cost anything and doesn't take long, so it is worth a try! Lyle |
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08 Jan 04 - 10:20 PM (#1089156) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: alison well mine started when I was about 19.... only used to get them about twice a year...... this year...... admittedly a stressful one..... started to get them every two months..... then I had a car crash in June and suddenly got 6 in a month and thought..... time to do something about this... doctors recommended migraine tablets for the rest of my life... I thought "stuff that for a picnic"..... anyway went to a naturopath and through herbal homeopathy he has me back to about one every three months... with a view to getting rid of them completely..... basically mine are stress and hormone related I get auras.... and once the lights go I have 30 mins before the migraine hits... so if I zonk myself on panadeine and head off to a dark room to lie own immediately the tablets have time to work and I can usually get rid of the worst of it Nurofen also works pretty well...... from a reflexology point of view, when it happens find the most sensitive spot on your big toe (relates to your head, could be either foot)...... and squeeze really hard... it will hurt like hell... and hold the pressure there until the pain in your toe subsides hope you feel better soon Morti slainte alison |
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09 Jan 04 - 03:12 AM (#1089242) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: mouldy Metchosin - the migril I have doesn't have all the extras in. It may have caffeine, but the main active ingredient is the ergotamine. You can take them every half hour at first, but the "safe dose" is 4 in any one attack and 6 per week. Ergot is what LSD comes from. It was the stopayne that had the meprobamate. Meprobamate is a tranquiliser. As it wasn't considered a good thing to use by the powers that be, being addictive I believe, it became restricted. I think you might have been able to get it on private prescription some years ago, but my daughter and I have been through the British National Formulary (she's a pharmacy graduate), and there's nothing around with it in. My GP told me to take 1600mg of ibuprofen at onset. He told me the current thinking is to hit it early and as hard as possible. He said that it was safe to do as hospitals use far higher doses than is normally prescribed, or recommended on the medicine packets. My daughter has confirmed that occasionally the doses set are actually sub-therapeutic. Anyway, all I got was rampant heartburn, so I had to phone the local pharmacy and ask when I could take something else. I had to wait yet another 6 hours. I can't take the migril now I am on beta-blockers, but I am not getting so many headaches anyway, although they used to hang around for days, and by the end I'd given up on the painkillers. (I also used to get sick of being told off by my daughter and warned about rebound headaches - apparently codeine, maybe by being an opiate, is a beggar for causing them). I just hope the GP doesn't take me off the pills if my bp stays down. It'll be back to the headaches again, I'm sure! (And it's down to 140/90 now, which is better than it has been for ages). Andrea |
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09 Jan 04 - 11:01 AM (#1089419) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Jeri Andrea, maybe your doctor would consider keeping you on beta blockers regardless of your BP. Beta blockers are also (at least in the U.S.) used to prevent migraines. This is highly-technical, but please see (PDF file) Pharmacological Management for Prevention of Migraine at the U.S. Headache Consortium website. |
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09 Jan 04 - 02:44 PM (#1089582) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Zhenya I was surprised to see the thread got this far with no mention of Excedrin migraine. This non-prescription medicine works well for me, and has a lot less severe side effects than things like Imitrex, which I've also tried. It's just a combination of aspirin, Tylenol, and medicinal caffeine. I try to take one as soon as I can tell a migraine is really going to establish itself, but it even works on the entrenched really severe ones you sometimes wake up with. Through trial and error, I've found that for me, it seems to work best to take one pill with at least 8 ounces of water, wait about 30-45 minutes, then eat a fairly substantial meal. (The pill takes the edge off the nausea.) If I take it with the meal, I get more side effects. If I don't eat, or don't have much water, it just seems to be a lot less effective. The directions on the box say to take two, but I would probably just try the one first, which may be enough. You can always take the second one later if you need it. Two other things I've heard about and tried that seem to help with very mild migraines (is that an oxy-moron?): - Hold your hands under the hottest water you can stand for several minutes (probably similar to taking a hot shower right away.) - Pull gently on your earlobes. Sounds strange, but it helps. I think it has something to do with acupressure points. I read about a device you could buy to put on your ears to do this for you, but I've never actually found it in a store. |
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10 Jan 04 - 08:01 AM (#1089916) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,JTT Morticia - Stilly River Sage has described exactly how to do the salty water snuffle thing; it doesn't have to be seawater, though seawater from a clean source is best - hot water with salt (preferably sea salt) will do. It clears out your sinuses, and also takes down the swelling; I've seen someone's face go from being swollen right out on one side to being almost normal within minutes of doing it. Lyle's pinching of the web between thumb and forefinger interests me, because that's one of the acupuncture points a Chinese doctor used to treat my infected sinuses. (The others were the top of the head, the middle of the hairline on the forehead, just over the sinuses beside the nose, and beside the hipbone at the side of the stomach.) But the most important thing for me is prevention: don't get into that crazy workworkwork state, eat enough raw fresh fruit and vegetables and enough cooked fruit and vegetables, and walk every day with the dog. And *get enough rest*. Don't get into that state where you're so wired up that you can't sleep without the radio on. Speaking of which, anyone look at that Dog Dancing video I flagged at all? It's really sweet. I was laughing, with sentimental tears rolling down my face, while watching it. |
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10 Jan 04 - 01:40 PM (#1090021) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Morticia JTT, I've tried both of those things, with no joy, as well as many of the fixes recommended in previous postings.I am eating lots of fresh veg and stuff, drinking lots of water and went for a longish walk this morning.The pain started to taper off yesterday afternoon ....this afternoon I am right back in as much pain as I was when I started this thread all those days ago. I don't know quite what's going on, but I know it's getting really old now. |
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10 Jan 04 - 02:49 PM (#1090060) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,JTT Morticia, if it's lasting this long you should go to the doctor. Most likely it's either a classic migraine or a long-standing sinus infection, and either of these need stronger medicine than what people are suggesting. For instance, I had one long series of sinus headaches which were cleared right up by two courses of strong antibiotics; a friend has true migrains and takes prescription pills when she gets one that only work on migraines, not on other headaches. Also, it's best to ease your mind of the worry that it might be something more serious. Head for the doc on Monday morning and clear this up - we'll be thinking of you. Commendations on your sensible approach to this. |
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21 Jul 04 - 08:06 PM (#1230978) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,Only one I have only had one migraine in my entire life. I was 12 years old. I remember it like it was yesterday. It was the worst and only headache I have had in my entire life. I remember everything going black. I took 2 bayer asprin and laid down and went to sleep. When I woke up the headache was gone. I have not had one since and I am in my mid 30's now. I am starting to get mild throbbing headaches now and wonder if I am going to start getting migraines now? |
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22 Jul 04 - 12:43 AM (#1231127) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: mg I just got a library book called Miracle Cures by Jean Carper. She talks about feverfew..chewing three leaves a day..or300 mg of the tablet..start with one and go up to three...says side effects few and mild...check it out obviously before trying. approved in canada for migraines. Also talks about peppermint oil applied externally to forehead (can sting skin..bad in some people) for tension headaches. mg |
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22 Jul 04 - 04:12 PM (#1231631) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: the lemonade lady I had migraine for many years. Three days of severe pain and vomiting every month about a week before my period, and being told by my then husband that I was a malingerer and swinging the lead etc. Bastard. Anyway I tried homeopathy for a while which sometimes worked, Bryonia I think. Then I found that leaving my husband relieved the pain somewhat! When I do get a twinge (bearing in mind that I am now 48 and having many hot flushes a day etc., so the hormonal aspect of this affliction doesn't come into play any more really) I take good old simple Anadin Extra. It's brilliant. 8-) Sal |
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22 Jul 04 - 05:04 PM (#1231683) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: patriot1314 I can sympathise with fellow sufferers, I've had cluster headaches for years now. I can be fine for months or even years, but when they strike! oh boy! My headaches don't last for very long, 40 minutes would be a long one, but the pain is intense. Two things have worked for me. I had a course of "Bowen Technique" from a qualified practitioner and I was fine for about 5 years. Earlier this year I had a cluster period again which coincided with a strain on my neck muscles. I saw an Osteopath and had a few appointments where my neck was gently manipulated and..... touch wood..... I've been fine since. I hope this helps anyone who suffers from the same thing. |
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20 Aug 04 - 12:18 PM (#1252166) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,Dr.Dzugan Hi, I decided to share with you my personal experience with patients who suffered many years from migraine. Two articles were published in Life Extension Magazine (August and September 2004). Just read them. You will not regret about it. Dr. Dzugan P.S. Migraine is curable! I have no a single patient who still has migraine. |
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20 Aug 04 - 02:12 PM (#1252289) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: kendall I used to suffer from migrains back when I smoked and was married to someone I didn't like. So, I got divorced22 years ago, quit smoking 7 years ago and havn't had one since. |
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19 Jan 05 - 02:07 AM (#1382027) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull Be aware that flourescent lights can cause migrains, if you work in an office with flourescent lights, try changing it to a normal light, see if it helps. Also AVOID the cheap poor quality energy saving light bulbs. I got one from the local pound shop a few weeks ago for my sitting room, I started getting REALLY bad headaches, chucked the lightbulb in the bin, and they stopped! problem with the cheap energy saving bulbs is they give off a very slight, almost undetectable flicker, stick to good quality well known makes, such as Phillips or Osram etc. If you have flouresecent lights at work, and they can't/wont change them, you can get coloured lenses for glasses, see a good optician for advice, even if you dont need glasses to see properley, you can get plain lenses, they are like sunglasses, but slightly tinted blue. As with any medical problem, its best to try to see wahts causing it, instead of just taking strong drugs, ie for example, I'm allerigiced to MSG, its a food additive, E 621, and is used a lot in processed food, try to eat only fresh food, ie nothing processed or out of packets. Or ask your doctor to do an allergy test. |
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19 Jan 05 - 10:59 AM (#1382315) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage So you didn't toss the bulbs out in the garden with the bicycles? :) Good advice, John. SRS |
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19 Jan 05 - 11:56 AM (#1382360) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut EXCELLENT READING: A MYSTERY NOVEL - "CLARE'S HEAD" BY CATHERINE BUSH. It's about 2 sisters who have migraines. Set in Toronto. Very well written and quite fun to read when you are a migreur yourself and can identify with the descriptions of migrianes in the book. Yes. Migraines. Horrid beasts, aren't they. This morning it was like having a pit bull terrier attached to the left side of my head. I shook it off with a MAXALT. Good effective drug. I no longer have the pit bull, but it will still take a while before I can drive a car to get to a studio gig. Since last summer, I've hardly had a single day without a migraine! I keep a calendar. I label my migraines - 0 (for not interfering with life and no medicine required), 1 (for bad, requiring medicine), 2 (for evil (meaning I cancel things left right and centre), and 3 (hell - that's the screaming vomitting up the medicine hide under the sheets duct tape the curtains closed and hope to die kind of migraine). Unfortunately I've got way too many 2s and 3s happening. The doctor has just started me this past weekend on a calcium inhibitor, hoping to ward off them off before they start. HHeerree''ss crroossiinngg aallll finnggerrs aanndd ttooeess. ~b.w. |
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20 Jan 05 - 12:08 AM (#1382906) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: The Fooles Troupe A recent TV news article mentioned that a person with a small hole in the heart had an operation to fix this which cured migraines. The blood returning from the body was mixing with the re-oxygenated blood and the resultant 'toxins' were what was causing the migraines. Must be true - it was on TV. |
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20 Jan 05 - 08:55 AM (#1383123) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut TV is surely more reliable then the www!!! :-) Anyway, here's an article sent to me (thank you Tony B) about exactly what Foolestroupe is talking about. Mind you, it's from the BBC, and I've always thought that British hearts were a little bit more interesting (just ask Liz the Squeak!) than our common little North American ones: MIGRAINE LINKED TO HEART DEFECT One in 10 Britons suffer migraines Doctors are examining whether migraines are linked to a common heart defect. One in four people have a valve-like hole, which can be closed using keyhole surgery, but it is twice as common among a type of migraine sufferer. The study by Kings College Hospital in London and the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital will look at whether correcting the defect cures migraines. Some 6m people in the UK have migraines, costing the economy £750m a year in lost production. The heart defect, called a patent foramen ovale (PFO), often produces no symptoms. This study could revolutionise the understanding and treatment of certain migraine headaches Ann Turner In the womb, the opening is necessary to allow efficient circulation of blood and oxygen before the lungs start functioning. After birth, it should fuse to produce a wall, or septum, separating the two atrial chambers. Sometimes, however, this does not occur correctly. Particles The theory is that closing this hole will ensure blood going through the heart is always filtered through the lungs on the way to the brain - thus removing chemicals that are thought to play a role in causing migraine. The operation takes less than an hour and is carried out under light general anaesthetic. A tube is inserted through a vein in the groin and worked through the blood vessels into the heart. A patch is then used to block the hole. Researchers are now looking for volunteers who suffer migraines with aura - one of the most severe types of the condition. Lead researcher Dr Andrew Dowson, director of the headache service at Kings College Hospital, said: "While there are many migraine treatments that help control symptoms, as yet there is no cure for migraine. "If the trial supports our theories about a migraine-PFO link, it could be the most significant development in treatment for over a decade." Action Dr Peter Wilmshurst, consultant cardiologist at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, who was one of the first doctors to make a link between the two conditions, said he hoped the study would help them improve understanding of migraines. "It should help us to define the appropriate course of action for patients who experience migraine attacks and also have a PFO." And Ann Turner, director of the Migraine Action Association added: "It is impossible for someone who has never experienced a migraine to understand its significant impact on a sufferer's quality of life - not just the attacks themselves, which are so painful and debilitating, but the constant fear of the next attack. "This study could revolutionise the understanding and treatment of certain migraine headaches, but we must remain cautious until the trial is completed." A spokeswoman for the Migraine Trust added: "At this stage it's much too early to have a clear picture on the efficacy of this procedure. "There are many different types of migraine and many types of research into its possible causes. We will be watching all new research very closely." Belinda Linden, of the British Heart Foundation, said: "There have been many reports about migraine affecting patients who have heart conditions such as a hole in the heart. Interestingly, there is also some evidence that migraine attacks can improve following successful treatment for a heart defect. "These observations highlight the need improve understanding about the mechanisms that both trigger and relieve the migraine attack. "Ultimately the findings may also help us understand more about migraine affecting the millions of people in the UK." HEY, WHAT ABOUT THOSE OF US OVER HERE IN CANADA, EH??????? ~b.w. |
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20 Jan 05 - 10:39 AM (#1383201) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,Mr Red - not yet TT I get migraines from cold weather - usually frost and worse - but not if I wear my cap. I don't drink (without protest and dilution) Bulmers cider or any other excresence that I know would say "with added sugars and sweeteners" because it usually means aspartame which is well known to be a cause. So beware non-sugars unless you know what they are and you have kept your diary of food/migraines. Red wine is another contributer - but the ruile of thumb is usually "the darker the alcohol the more congeners" which basically means more indigestible alcohols. Hair of the dog does work (according to the New Scientist) but don't expect miracles. With alcohol I dilute to get the fluids, drink plenty of weater after and a cheese sanwich before bed. Oh and no more than two pints on the first night of a festival. By Sunday I don't seem to suffer but maybe going home so would not risk the blood alcohol level. Cheese and chocolate do not seems to figure in my migraines. I also find adrenaline helps temporarilly like dancing, singing publically - even the levels generated by ............ since you asked for advice ............... NOOKIE |
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24 Mar 05 - 06:54 PM (#1443031) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Gurney Hi folks. I've revived this thread in hopes that it will help someone. On one of these migraine threads, someone (sorry, cant remember who, can't remember which thread) told us of a gadget that his family used to rinse out their sinuses, but it was then unobtainable in NZ. Last Christmas Judy heard of a variant, bought it, used it, and hasn't had a migraine since, or even a cold. As she was getting a 4-day migraine every two weeks or so, you'll guess what a difference that made to her life, and mine too. The apparatus is marketed by NeilMed Products, Inc, or NeilMed Pharmaceuticals, which I suspect is a US firm. It is called NeilMed's Sinus Rinse and comes as a squeeze bottle kit with a few satchets of powder and a comprehensive pamphlet. It cost NZ$10. Peanuts. Judy makes up her own mixture, it is only salt and bicarb in boiled water, and she uses it as casually as her toothbrush. 30 secs daily. Part of her routine. More often if she suspects the onset of a headache. I suppose it will only help those sufferers whose migraines are triggered by sinus problems, but it must be worth a try for anyone. Hope this helps. Chris. |
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24 Mar 05 - 06:58 PM (#1443037) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: harpgirl great news, chris. I'm going to lay in a supply if I can. |
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24 Mar 05 - 07:37 PM (#1443067) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage I don't know if I'm the one who mentioned it here, but we use a device like that. The gadget is very low tech and is called a Neti Pot. Warm water and a little salt is all that goes into it. SRS |
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24 Mar 05 - 08:47 PM (#1443121) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Gurney Sage, I think it was you who mentioned it. A sort of a small stainless-steel 'teapot' from the description. Yep, that's it, Sage. Thanks. Still not available here. |
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24 Mar 05 - 11:26 PM (#1443198) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage I'm glad to read that it's so helpful. We've used it with sinus conditions such as colds and allergies, but my son get's migraines, so I'll mention it to him next time he's down with one. I'll report back. SRS |
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25 Mar 05 - 12:27 AM (#1443230) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: robomatic When I was in college I'd come down with a major headache about once every month or two. The solution that worked was to ride my motorcycle at high speed into town, about 30 miles. Usually by the time I got into town the headache would be dissipated. It was the act of being forced to concentrate on the process of the ride that did the trick. My father, the single most intelligent person I've known at first hand, was able to eliminate headaches by thinking them away. In other words, his power of concentration needed no activity on which to focus. He bought me a Consumer Reports publication, "The Headache Book". These days I just hit myself on the head with the book. |
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25 Mar 05 - 02:48 AM (#1443267) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: open mike i had a roomate with migraines once and she was prescribed coca cola or coffee--it seems the caffeine is a vaso dialator...and eases the pressure built up in constricted blood vessels...seems like a particulary difficult condition..i hope all who suffer from it find relief!! |
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25 Mar 05 - 11:01 PM (#1444013) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Margaret V A little over a year ago I simultaneously gave up caffeine and started using a neti pot. I have FAR fewer migraines now (probably about 75% fewer) and virtually no more sinus infections. So I'd recommend trying one or both of those things to anyone suffering migraines. Mind you, the caffeine-withdrawal headache in the first two or three days is no picnic, but for me it was entirely worthwhile. Margaret |
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26 Mar 05 - 04:55 AM (#1444089) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Gurney Judy's howebrew mixture is a one-quarter teaspoon of jollop to 250ml of boiled, lukewarm water. The jollop is half-and-half sea salt / bicarbonate of soda. Again, very cheap. You can't use it just before bed. Give it a half-hour. |
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01 Apr 05 - 07:46 AM (#1448873) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut I just got back from a trip to western Canada. Alberta gave me migraines (chinooks, mountainous altitude). Saskatchewan was SO MUCH better (cold, sunny, flat prairie). Then I cam back to Ontario, the weather changed from sunny to rainy, and WHOMP one of the worst migraines of my life. I was in tears and couldn't lift my head off the pillow. Like a jack hammer drilling into the left side of my head. I'm on beta blockers. I take Maxalt. I'm in line for an MRI. These are nasty. ~b.w. |
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01 Apr 05 - 08:16 AM (#1448905) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: the lemonade lady I may have said this before but i swear by Anadin Extra. I had this dreadful pain and vomiting once a month, for 3 days in a row. I must admit it happened less frequently when I left my then husband! Sal |
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01 Apr 05 - 08:43 AM (#1448943) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut Anacin? Tried it. Didn't work for me. As for the other remedy....no, I don't think so. :) ~b.w. |
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01 Apr 05 - 07:08 PM (#1449587) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,leeneia I have suffered from wicked headaches for many years. They seem to have more than one cause. One problem with headaches is that doctors seem to call any headache which is seriously painful a migraine. This may be incorrect. For example, one night I woke in such pain that sat up in bed and wept. And then, somehow, it came to me that the great pain was merely a cramp in one of the muscles that attaches my head to my neck. What a relief to know that it was not air pressure, sinuses, something I ate or an emotional problem. Now when I sense that muscles are involved, I use Aspercreme. A nurse recommended it to me, and she knew what she was talking about. When my neck and shoulders feel like someone is tightening them with a winch, I rub Aspercreme in. It often helps. Also, it can't upset your stomach. Black Walnut, you spoke of a jackhammer drilling into the left side of your head. Try Aspercreme for that. There is a group of long, thin muscles that attaches to your skull at your temples, and if they are stressed, that may create that drilling sensation. Another thing I can tell you is that no prescription medicine has ever done a thing for my headaches. Dropping air pressure, especially a wet, cold front is a factor, too. One night River City had a tornado (talk about low pressure!) and I had to be taken to the hospital. (Turned out I had migraine plus the flu.) I asked a fellow sufferer about that night, and she said, "I thought I was going to die!" Anybody know why low pressure causes such problems? |
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07 Apr 05 - 11:24 AM (#1454444) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut Thanks Leeneia. I'll keep that on my list of suggestions. I like to try just one thing at a time. Today it's Maxalt + coffee. The doctor says that my migraines are 'in stasis'...as in when one goes, another cometh. Waiting for the MRI...not much music happening in my life these days. ~b.w. |
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07 Apr 05 - 12:23 PM (#1454490) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Pauline L I have found that my triggers for migraines include sinus congestion and changes in barometric pressure. I'm incredibly sensitive to the latter. I have numerous allergies and yesterday was our first heavy pollen day. I've got a splitting headache and enervating asthma. Thanks, SRS, for the suggestion about Neti Pot. It sounds like something I used to use at my ENT doctor's office. It was not a panacea but it helped. So far, the only non-drug treatment I've found which helps is mild exercise, like walking, indoors during pollen season. |
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07 Apr 05 - 01:29 PM (#1454561) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,Frug I have suffered from migraine attacks for years since I was a kid of about 5. I used to collapse with the pain. They have followed me throughout my life and then developed into cluster headaches, basically migraine in bunches. I can assure you that these are the most disruptive and unpleasant things that have ever happened to me healthwise. I have tried acupuncture ( after all the pills that is!!) with some success. Most recently I went through a period of cluster migraine 49 days every bloody day. The Doc eventually put me on Beta Blockers which appear to have had an effect and I am now migraine free.............but for how long? Mine are usually triggered by tiredness and stress, however given my work pattern and responsibilities I don't see how to avoid them, I don't get the warning signs, ho hum!! Frank |
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07 Apr 05 - 02:25 PM (#1454610) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Mr Red Nasal sprays and the like probably work because one cause is the inflamation of sinuses. Another reason is the anti-histamines. I only just found-out that histamines are alcohols and present in dark drinks as congeners &/or associated with them. My doctor prescribed anti-histamines and I didn't take them because despite my questioning he reckoned there would be no contra-indications. Till I got the box, plastered with warnings about driving &/or drinking and taking the tablets. Maybe one before bed might do the trick. Asprins can but asprin and alcohol are not a good conbination - not that I noticed. Certainly drinking to replace fluids during the night instead of flooding my stomachhe feels better. As for migraines without apparent cause - don't get em since the responsible job went out the window. Though I am careful if I have a sniffle to were a wooly hat during sleep. Lets face it the rest of the body is lagged but not the head and in the winter if the capilliaries get cold they shut down in most of the body which in the head starve the brain of oxygen and thus gives you a headache. It "helps" rather than cures - staves off the "almost". |
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07 Apr 05 - 02:56 PM (#1454650) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,Saulgoldie I don't have a migraine right now, but I probably will if I don't get a good night's sleep sometime soon. But I sure wisht I could get a "100." |
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01 May 05 - 05:23 PM (#1475979) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,autoharpy I just want to say the Neti Pot is changing my life! I can breath! No headaches in the morning! |
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01 May 05 - 05:34 PM (#1475986) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST Good news. Helps one's disposition. |
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01 May 05 - 06:27 PM (#1476009) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Ebbie Way up there WYSIWG mentioned "electrolyte imbalances.... " Along that line- I recently got an email ofering "Quick Cures" and among a whole list it said: "Did you know that drinking two glasses of Gatorade can relieve headache pain almost immediately -- without the unpleasant side effects caused by traditional "pain relievers?" Oh, if getting rid of pain were only that simple! The pain and frustration some of you periodically experience is appalling, and you have my utmost sympathy. |
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06 May 05 - 12:30 PM (#1479470) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: JennyO I used to get migraine-like headaches around the time of my period - apart from them being worse, I could always tell they were not an ordinary headache when I would take the usual headache medication and it didn't work. What did work every time was Naprogesic (Naproxen Sodium), which was sold as a medication for period pain. These days, all I have to worry about is whether I will get the 100th post - well someone might as well have it :-) |
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06 May 05 - 02:13 PM (#1479528) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Mr Red I used to get headaches from cold weather and I was always careful when I washed my hair (evaoration and cooling) especially not going to sleep with wet hair. I seem to have mine under control - but it is difficult to gauge how bad they were. Pain is so subjective. Oestrogen controls blood flow in the arteries as witnessed by hot flushes (or flashes if you prefer). Is that relevant? Capiliaries would be affected first. |
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07 May 05 - 03:50 AM (#1479885) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: fiddler Terri, INvest 50 squids in a magnet! I never got migranes - although some said they were - I had persistant headaches! Hell not on legs. a:href="http://www.ecomagnets.com/bioflow.htm">http://www.ecomagnets.com/bioflow.htm Not taken any drugs or haheadaches since! - I suppose I shouldn't have said that should I!!!!! Andy |
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07 May 05 - 05:42 AM (#1479917) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: JennyO Oestrogen controls blood flow in the arteries as witnessed by hot flushes (or flashes if you prefer). Is that relevant? Capiliaries would be affected first. Mr Red, I suspect that this could be relevant to my experience. I don't have enough medical knowledge to be sure though. At the time I was just glad to find something that worked! Jenny |
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07 May 05 - 08:56 AM (#1479977) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut I started on a new (my third first line trial) drug last week, and I haven't had a migraine for FIVE WHOLE DAYS!!!! It's heaven. I can think. I can work. I can plan. I can drive. It's totally amazing! ~b.w. |
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07 May 05 - 12:03 PM (#1480053) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Rumncoke I had migranes in my younger days - they stopped when I divorced my first husband. I also stopped drinking black coffee, so it is difficult to say precisely what happened to stop them. I still find feverfew self sown in the garden, have peppermint essence in the drawer with cookery things - but I have only ever had a migrane once since then. It was not the same, as I used to get a flashing lattice, but this was being half blind. I can voluntarily lower my blood pressure - I am overweight and have been using the trick to annoy medical professionals for decades. My blood pressure without the trick is good - I checked at the gym, but it is excellent at hospital and clinic. I do it quite regularly - it is a cure for insomnia. I don't get ordinary headaches and my calm good humour is remarked on. Anne |
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07 May 05 - 01:09 PM (#1480085) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Pauline L Estrogen can be related to migraines. I used to get migraines as part of PMS. bw, I'm so glad you found something that works. What is it? |
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07 May 05 - 02:00 PM (#1480103) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,JTT Another sinus rinse, sold by Boots chemists and available online in various places, is Sterimar. Apparently what salt water does is this: the salt causes the mucous membranes in your sinuses to dry out a bit, so your nose runs like a tap, taking down the miserable congestion and cooling off the nice muggy bacteria-encouraging temperature. If it's a true migraine, your doctor might give you something called Imagrin (or maybe it's Imigran), which kills any headache in about an hour and 10 minutes - *if* you take it when the headache has only begun recently. If you leave it too long, you can't take anything because your digestion shuts down and anything you take comes back again. Prevention: there's a good tai chi exercise that consists of holding your neck gently and revolving your elbows backwards 32 times, forwards 32 times, then alternately backwards (left then right) 32 times, then *gently* pushing the neck to loosen up the tight muscles. Another good option is to go for a professional neck and head massage. |
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10 May 05 - 09:40 AM (#1481602) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: JennyO Rumncoke, I'm really curious to know about your trick for lowering your blood pressure. I could probably use something like that. If you don't want to say it here, you could send me a PM. Jenny |
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11 May 05 - 01:26 AM (#1482210) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST Start your mornings with a full glass of aged-sulfated-red-wine - and a bit of aged chedder-cheese on sourdough bread.
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11 May 05 - 11:10 PM (#1482982) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST If you try to follow the above posted "diet" you may surely die from a migraine.
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22 Jun 05 - 08:54 AM (#1506849) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut Pauline, it's a low dose of amitriptyline. After trying other things with no effect whatsoever, this one is working. I still get the occasional migraine, but rarely a bad one. I've been to the local migraine clinic at WCH and was told to stay on it for up to a year, then see if I can decrease or go off it for good. The side effect I don't like is a dry mouth which makes singing a bit more difficult, but the side effect I do like is a great night's sleep. ~b.w. |
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22 Jun 05 - 03:04 PM (#1507186) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Morticia glad to hear that is working for you, BW.......I tried it but hated the doped up feeling I had the following morning...although the fact I was up to 100mg before it worked might have had something to do with that |
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23 Jun 05 - 09:32 AM (#1507953) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut I'm on way less that that, Morticia. Only 40mg. And I still feel groggy in the morning. It seems to improve over time, however, and so much better than the daily migraines that plagued me over the fall and winter. I'm off coffee, too, only decaf. So I can't rely on that to shake me out of my sleep. I'm so glad to be rid of that addiction, though. If I drink even half a cup of real coffee I get really wired now. ~b.w. |
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23 Jun 05 - 10:45 AM (#1507994) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,Stilly River Sage My son has had migraines (that we now can look back and call migraines) since he was five or six years old. When he was about 8 we finally realized what they were, and he has used amytriptaline, gradually increasing the dose to keep them more or less at bay (we have referred to those as "breakthrough" headaches--meaning there always will be some, but we don't want to take so much of this stuff to completely block them but have the side effects you discuss). He's at 35mg now and doesn't get headaches very often. They tend to occur more during high allergy season. SRS |
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27 Jun 05 - 01:47 PM (#1511060) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut It must be horrible for a child to have migraines. They don't have the words to say what hurts, or where, or how badly. It's difficult enough for adults to describe their pain. I'm glad to hear that the amytriptaline is working for him, and I hope it keeps working for a good long time. The term "breakthrough" is a very good one. ~b.w. |
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28 Jun 05 - 12:30 AM (#1511402) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage He gets a certain look and we know he's coming down with one. Darken the room, and sometimes taking a warm shower helps (with a low-light lamp instead of regular bathroom lighting). Photo sensitivity is a big part of his, and I have a lesser form of migraine that seems to be purely photo sensitive. Morning light, driving into the sun, kills me. SRS |
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28 Jun 05 - 08:24 AM (#1511556) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: fiddler ah good old Amitryptelye (never could spell it) yup I have boxes of it sat there since I bought the magnet, I've used it the past few weeks when work (and life stress) got a bit too much it is also an anti depressant. It doesn't make me groggy. I still swear by teh magnet. Web site quoted above or pm me - I'm not on commission only happy feelings. Hasn't helped the blood pressure - weight loss and fitness are probably the only cure Andy |
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27 Jan 07 - 01:55 AM (#1949374) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST how safe is amylotriplene for children in age grouop 10 years pl advise. mktiwari@jrd.jindalsteel.com |
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27 Jan 07 - 09:34 AM (#1949563) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,ib48 aspirin |
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27 Jan 07 - 10:40 AM (#1949612) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Sorcha Guest 1:55, for pity's sake, ask your Dr that. |
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27 Jan 07 - 11:41 AM (#1949669) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut Exactly what I was going to write, Sorcha. Do NOT play around with meds. Ask you doctor, or pharmacist at the very least. ~b.w. |
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27 Jan 07 - 01:47 PM (#1949779) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Slag All, I emailed Guest that very advise. Who goes asking for medical advice on the BS section of a Folk Music chat room??!!!!. Ask a doc. Go to the clinic. I don't know if there are any MDs who are members or visitors but even if there are any, no one is going to diagnose or evaluated in a chat room!!! |
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27 Jan 07 - 03:06 PM (#1949845) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Jean(eanjay) Stress causes grinding of teeth and this can cause severe headaches. A visit to the dentist would be worthwhile because teeth grinders can be fitted with a biteguard to wear at night. It worked for me (not very attractive though!). |
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29 Jan 07 - 10:03 AM (#1951200) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut Are TMJ headaches the same as migraines? I've had both, and they weren't really similar in any way. The biteguard by the way only made the TMJ worse for me, and I "cured" my agony - I stopped playing the flute. My jaw muscles were ruined during surgery to take out 4 wisdom teeth, and since we couldn't fix the muscles, I had to stop doing the thing that caused the most pain. It was a difficult choice to quit playing an instrument I loved, but I did, and haven't had any TMJ pain since. ~b.w. |
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29 Jan 07 - 10:47 AM (#1951238) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Jean(eanjay) I'm not sure if they are the same but as well as the excruciating pain you feel nauseous and have to rest so the symptoms are similar. |
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29 Jan 07 - 03:08 PM (#1951511) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,ib48 Decapitation usually does the trick |
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29 Jan 07 - 04:06 PM (#1951551) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Slag World Health Org released a statement a few years age that said to the effect that "Migraine" is one of the most debilitating diseases there is. The net effect of a grand mal migraine is blindness (due to both increased light sensitivity and vaso-dialation in the occipital lobe), quadraplegia because "you ain't going nowhere, baby" up to and including the bathroom (keep that bottle handy), and unremitting pain, some of the worst known to man. People have committed suicde to escape and most who have the bad ones have seriously considered it. Yup, throw in nausea and you got a real pinic. Migraine usually has MULTIPLE triggers; flickering lights (include neon, TV, anything that strobes), TMJ, molds, neck pain, wine and various foods (alas, chocolate too), stress, and too often, no known reason! Frustrating is what relieves them or fails to relieve them. I've had people tell me, "Yeah, I used to get migraines but all I do is take an Excedrine at night and that ends the problem." FOR THEM! It makes me doubt that they were ever really diagnosed with the condition. However different things work for different people. Ergotamine "works" but not if you have chronic migraine. It can poison you and give you Burgess' Disease where your toes and fingers rot off. And you get "rebound headaches" when you stop taking it. I heard the head of the UCSD Pain Clinic state that all rebound and chronic migraine is caused from continuing to take pain killers. My case: I occasionally got migraine as a kid and a teen but I thought all headaches were the same. Asprin never worked and I'd just tough it out. They seldom lasted more than a day. Then for some unknown reason at age 31 I got one that lasted almost a month. I finally concluded that "this was not normal" and went to a neurologist. Heck! I might have a brain tumor! No, I had Chronic Migraine. I tried various meds. This first migraine lasted ( at various stages of intensity) about 3 months. I got over it finally and thought " good, no more headaches" That lasted about a monthe and the next one lasted about 6 months. Since then, (I'm 58 now) the most time off I get is 2-3 weeks, maybe once a year. I have meds that lessen the severity but they are never gone. For many years I would go in to the Dr.'s office once or twice a month for 125 mgs of Demerol w/ Phenergan or Vistoril 50mgs. There goes a couple of days. That would break the pattern and I'd have 2 or 3 days relief, then wham! I've done elimination diets, bio-feedback, Tooth guard ( yea, TMJ to boot!) all to no avail. Today I take Imitrex for the one's that don't want to let up under painkiller. I get 10 of those a month and I don't really want to take them as there is a real risk of heart attack. Other wise I take #4 Codiene w/ asprin every 4 or 5 hours. This allows me to function, like right now. I always read labels very carefully for the one thing that will always trigger a grand mal migraine and the is MSG (mono sodium glutimate, one of the more pernicious poisons known to man). This is the stuff in much Chinese cooking and it is marketed as a "flavor enhancer". It is used in brain studies on labortory animals to kill certain portions of the brain. Great stuff. If I chance to encounter it ( usually because it was unamed and listed as "flavorings") it's a trip to the Doc's for Demerol. I have stories, but don't we all. My advice? Find what works for you. Don't leave home without it. Find a Doc who really knows what terrific pain is involved. So many Dr.s simply do not believe that it could be as painful as they are. You don't want one of those Docs. Make sure that he is available and will promptly give you whatever you need to take the pain away. Most of all, you may feel alone but you are not alone. We who suffer KNOW what you are going through. One last note. My lady love also suffers with Migraine too, though not quite as chronically as I. However she has what are being called ischemic episodic migraines. The blood vessels in her occipital lobe swell so tight that blood fails to circulate and little by little these portions of her brain are dying. From her migraines she has stroke-like symptoms and has residual effects that have lasted over a year. They effect her muscular response and speech and vision. She was at first diagnosed with MS because of the scarring on her brain but further work came up with the present diagnosis. I suppose you could say, in a very real sense that some migraines have the potential to be fatal. |
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30 Jan 07 - 12:41 AM (#1951998) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: alison since I last added to this thread I have discovered the joys of laser accupuncture. Basically my doctor puts a few needles in my hands and feet (relaxation points - you almost drift off to sleep after a few minutes), then she spend 30 mins working around my neck, shoulders and upper spine with laser probes (just feels like a warmth) now I get a migraine about every 6 months ie I still get the flickering eyes warning - but my treatment is now 2 disprin at the onset (+ 1 maxolon is recommended - but I don't get the nausea) and I get no headache at all.................. much better than the 8 nurofen plus I used to have to take. If the migraines start to get more frequent again I just book in for a "top up" session wonderful slainte alison |
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30 Jan 07 - 09:03 AM (#1952318) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut Slag: you said, "I heard the head of the UCSD Pain Clinic state that all rebound and chronic migraine is caused from continuing to take pain killers." They may have said this but while it is probably the overwhelming factor, it is not totally true. I know because I have chronic migraine and the neurologists have totally ruled out drug rebound. All they can say is that for some reason my brain turned on the "migraine switch" and my body says I have to have them and they won't stop. It's like a roller coaster - up and down up and down. But sometimes there is a whole wonderful day without a migraine - like yesterday - I had a FABULOUS day and got out to a concert at night and smiled the whole evening long. ~b.w. |
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30 Jan 07 - 09:09 AM (#1952327) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,Don Last I have had a migraine for 3 days now. Hot showers and drugs is the only relief. I found that anything in the onion family will trigger a migraine. I unfortunatly had some leek soup last week. |
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30 Jan 07 - 10:10 AM (#1952387) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut Onions! They're in just about everything! Wheat and cheese are my main food triggers, so I know the feeling you must have of trying to find a decent meal out of the house. ~b.w. |
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30 Jan 07 - 11:31 AM (#1952502) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST It took me 45 years to discover the common migraine trigger of onions. I used to take 18 asprin a day until a doctor gave me percocet. They are now managed to the point I can actually interact and be productive during a migraine episode although the after effects of the migraine in the form of residual memory deficits is still present. To have allowed me to endure pure agony every 14 days for 45 years without the aid of an effective pain killer I find virtually criminal. |
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30 Jan 07 - 04:08 PM (#1952830) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut It can be s difficult to sort out food triggers, especially the ones that are in many different kinds of foods. My triggers aren't the typical coffee, chocolate, so it took a long time to sort out. But 45 years - yikes! ~b.w. |
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05 Feb 07 - 11:01 PM (#1958596) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Slag Don Last, you might want to check out any foods (natural or otherwise) that have sulfur in them (onions, garlic, dried fruits, etc.) as that may be your trigger. Black Walnut, we're tracking the same page, my friend. At times I wish every Doctor could suffer just one grand mal migraine for about four days. I guarantee their attitude would change re painkillers. |
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06 Feb 07 - 01:44 AM (#1958656) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage GUEST, if you're still hanging around waiting for an answer about amitriptyline, it has worked very well for my son, who started taking it when he was about 8 years old. He is 14 now. His migraines went undiagnosed for at least a couple of years before that and he got them several times a month. He gets breakthrough headaches every so often but (knock wood) lately he hasn't gotten them more than once every few months. He's good at recognizing their approach and if we can get him a motrin, a dark room or something to cover his face, and some sleep (even a power nap will help) then he can get through it pretty well. He started with a very low dose (10mg) and it increased to 25mg for a while. For quite some time now 35mg has been sufficient (we get our Rx mail order so the doctor has to write two prescriptions, one for 10 and one for 25, to be taken together each evening). This drug, taken at much higher levels, is an effective antidepressant. At this low dosage it doesn't affect mood, but it definitely prevents the migraines. SRS |
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07 Feb 07 - 09:26 PM (#1960656) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut SRS that's such good news about your son - such an increased sense of control. I had an interesting run-in with a food trigger tonight. I discovered - too late - that there is wheat in Swiss Chalet 'fresh cut' French fries! Go figure... ~b.w. |
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08 Feb 07 - 02:53 AM (#1960787) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Stilly River Sage We felt so guilty when it was finally diagnosed--when he was little and it seemed like there should be nothing wrong, why he wouldn't just come to the dinner table to eat? I'd make him come sit at the table, try to coax him to eat, and he'd almost go so far as to rest his head on his plate--now we know that the best thing for him was what he was trying to do on his own--sleep it off. Now a days, when this kid looks sleepy during the day I just send him to take a nap. Whether migraine or power nap, it only does him good. SRS |
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08 Feb 07 - 04:27 AM (#1960845) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: Charmain There are doubts about the idea of trigger foods reating to migraines - some doctors now think the foods are craved before migraine due to hormonal imbalances - much as in pregnancy (the hormonal effects of chocolate are well documented and the it is often quoted as a trigger by many sufferers) So rather than being a cause the cravings are another symptom of the migraine. My partner suffers migraines - he has one right now as it happens... He is fortunate though in that he has a definate early warning when his left eye goes cmpletely blind and then about half an hour later the sight returns and the headache begins - his normal way of dealing with this is to take very strong painkillers when the sight goes and that minimises the headache when it arrives. With the nausea often ginger and peppermint teas can help or smelling neat peppermint essential oil It may well be worth getting hormone levels checked out as these can be the route cause. Homeopathy can also be an excellent solution if you can find a good practitioner. Good Luck... |
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08 Feb 07 - 05:38 AM (#1960895) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: GUEST,JTT The trigger for me is overwork, or overdoing it in any way. For instance, last week, I worked a week of nights, then drove from Dublin to Connemara in the rush hour, taking seven-and-a-half hours in total. That night I got a raging migraine. Immigran (on prescription) is the only thing that works when I have the migraine - as well as walking, to keep the pills down and keep the blood moving, and hot-then-tepid-then-hot showers. If it gets me fully before I get the Immigran, there's no hope, because one's digestion shuts down with a full-blown migraine, and the pill just sits there until vomited up. But if I realise before I'm in the full throes, there's software called Pzizz (it's $60 but it's worth it) which generates auto-hypnosis snooze and sleep recordings. You put them on your iPod and play them over earphones, and they're really helpful for getting into a deep, relaxed sleep. I think the problem with overtiredness may be that I get to sleep all right, but I'm so tense that I'm clenching my jaw and (the dentist tells me) grinding my teeth, and this puts the neck and jaw muscles into a rictus. Then I wake up with the start of the headache, but I'm so exhausted that I mutter "'Twill be better in the morning" and plunge back into an exhausted, tense sleep. The tense muscles cause the veins leading up through the neck into the brain to tense, and voila! migraine. |
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08 Feb 07 - 09:06 AM (#1961082) Subject: RE: BS: Migraine sufferers, advice please? From: black walnut Re: triggers. Hey, when I consciously avoid wheat and cheese like the plague, and then eat wheat that I don't know is there - by not realizing that Swiss Chalet coats their fries in wheat - and then get a mega-migraine from it right away...well, it's hard to say that I was 'craving' wheat and therefore ordered those fries instead of the baked potato. There are a lot of theories out there about migraines, but that's not one that I buy. This whole experience has taught me how much people do NOT know, rather what they DO know. ~b.w. |