I have had migraines for the past 40 years. What I could fight through thirty years ago, is impossible today. The Relpax can be taken twice a week, but after that, alternate pain medications barely take the edge off (yet the meds are powerful). Needless to say, by the time the migraine subsides, it takes another day to recover before wondering when do I have to face this again? I live four hours from any major medical facilities and have seen a number of neurologists over the years who have prescribed many medications that have not worked. Currently, my general physician oversees my care as we have no neurologist. My GP is wonderful, but even he realizes the limitations involved in working on my case. I continually see my life becoming more and more impacted by my disease-causing me to miss work-miss social activities with friends-not be able to exercise-miss my kid's activities, etc. I am seeking input from others that have found beneficial experiences that I can bring to my doctor. I can ask for a referral to try other resources and then proceed through the lengthy insurance process. Please, your input would be so appreciated!
Ok, I think it is time to see an expert, a Migraine specialist. This doctor is the expert who treats one disorder - ours - Migraine disease and headache disorders. You can think of it like this: when a pipe under the kitchen sink breaks, you call the expert - a plumber. You could call a handyman who will fix the broken pipe, then fix the drain, the cabinets and paint the room if needed. But he isn't the expert you need for your broken pipe. Neurologists may be fine doctors, but treat so many different conditions like MS, stroke, and epilepsy, it's hard for them to be experts in any one area. It's important to note that neurologists aren't necessarily Migraine and headache specialists. A Migraine specialist is a expert who only treats people with Migraine and headache disorders. Keep reading for information on: Migraine and Headache Specialists - What's So Special? Then you can take a look for a Migraine specialist on our patient recommended list.
An ideal situation would be to see your Migraine specialist once or twice, come up with a Migraine management plan, then work with a local neurologist or PCP who will be able to continue it locally. How does that sound?
Thanks for the note. However, I've become a bit apprehensive about trying doctor after doctor without some personal recommendations. I saw a neurologist (with specialty in migraines) and it was very disappointing. I do feel the need to try again, but know how much work it will be getting there, going through referrals, insurance, collecting information, etc., and I'd like to have some hope that the experience would be positive.
silvermoon,
I fully understand what you mean about personal recommendation. Did you notice that our listing is of PATIENT RECOMMENDED specialists? Every doctor on that list has been recommended by their patients with the exception of only two or three whom I added because they were recommended by my specialist.
Some of us have, unfortunately, found that there are some doctors out there who say they have a specialty in Migraine when, in reality, they treat patients with all kinds of injuries, diseases, and illnesses, and don't now all that much about Migraine. Obviously, I don't know if that's the case wtih your doctor. I just wanted to point out that it happens.
LIke Nancy, I don't know what to suggest to you other than getting to a good Migraine specialist. That was certainly the turning point for me in getting my Migaines under control.
Teri