As a migraine sufferer since around 1992, I have had numerous experiences. I've been without migraines about 3-4 years in there somewhere, but have been steadily having problems since 1997. Anyways, since the birth of my 2nd child in July, the migraines have recently been worse. Worse as in more frequent.
My quarterly trip to the neurologist (God bless that man) diagnosed me with having to now treat it as a "chronic" illness. I honestly was scared he would reduce my Zomig (5mg) medication. He understood completely - increased my dosage and put me on Topamax for daily use.
I'm all too, too grateful! I hope that Topamax will decrease my problem to NO migraines. It's no way to live with the meds, but the alternative (awful pain, nauseausness, throwing up, the shakes, no water, no food) is worse. Thank God for doctors! The side effects of sleepiness, and weight loss (oh my gosh, this is great), and needing more water - I can definitely live with that!
I'll be updating on my progress. Here's to hoping for NO migraines one day!
-Cassaundra
I'm glad your doctor took your concerns seriously.
Most people that take preventives find that they help, but do not completely stop all migraines. Most people still need to take an abortive or rescue med from time to time.
I hope that the Topamax works for you. However, if it doesn't, or if you find you can't tolerate it, it is not the only option. There are over 100 medications used for prevention. Here is the link to this site's article about preventive meds:
Preventive medications
I'd also like you to take a look at this article about the role of different types of medications:
Preventive, abortive, and rescue medications
I hope you will join us on the discussion forum. To get there, click Migraine Forums under the orange Manage bar. Registration for the forums is separate from the registration for this page, but of course, you can use the same information to register. A lot of information and support is shared on the forums, and we would love to have you.