Full Question:

One of the triggers for my migraines is exercise. However, two of my medications are causing a significant weight gain. They are Seroquel and Neurontin. In the last six months I have gained over 30 pounds with no changes in my diet. I know the extra weight will only cause more health problems, but exercise causes migraines. Help. Lori.

Answer:

Dear Lori;

It's not unusual for exercise to trigger Migraines, unfortunately.

What's fortunate is that there are so many options for preventive therapies now. Some do have the potential side effect of weight gain, but certainly not all of them. There are now over 100 medications and supplements that can be used for Migraine and headache prevention. The frustration of trying to find what works for us can make it seem as if we’ve tried it all, but with so many possible preventives, it’s literally impossible to have tried them all. See Migraine preventive medications – too many options to give up! for more information.

It's time to sit down and talk with your doctor about the weight gain issue and changing medications. If your doctor isn’t able to help you, it may well be time to consult a Migraine and headache specialist. It’s important to note that neurologists aren’t necessarily Migraine and headache specialists. Take a look at the article Migraine and Headache Specialists - What's So Special? If you need help finding a Migraine specialist, check our listing of Patient Recommended Migraine and Headache Specialists.

Good luck,
John Claude Krusz and Teri Robert

To review other questions from our Ask the Clinician Column,
 browse the Ask the Clinician archives.

If you need help finding a Migraine and headache specialist,
 visit our listing of Patient Recommended Specialists.

About Ask the Clinician:

Dr. Krusz is a recognized expert in the fields of headache and Migraine treatment and pain treatment. Each week, he and Lead Expert Teri Robert, team up to answer your questions about headaches and Migraines. You can read more about Dr. Krusz or more about Teri Robert.

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