Can there be a connection to my life long sentence with migraines and my newly diagnosed Chiari Type I Malformation? Also, is there a reason why my meds for my migraines no longer seem to effectively stop my migraines? Could the nerves be blocking the pain receptors? Any advice? On November 4th I had a severe TIA lasting 2 1/2 hours my entire right side was unresponsive. I was hospitalized in CCU for 4 days and released with a diagnosis of Complex Migraine Syndrome. Two weeks ago my neurologist tried a nerve block and that only seemed to aggravate the situation more. I was is severe pain for a week. Now it hurts to move my neck at all. It feels like there is a rod in my neck and a ton of bricks on top of my head. My right hand and shoulder feels like there is hot water running though it or either it goes completly numb. I also feel like there is a knife between my shoulder blades. I have trouble sleeping, and hurt all the time. He has referred me to a neurosurgeon. I live in Mississippi, but I was wondering if there were a better place I should be going to. Any ideas? Thanks. Merry Christmas, Wishing you a great new year. Alisha McCrory 
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Q: Chiari Type I Malformation & Migraines
Alisha,
Many people with Chiari Malformation have problems with Migraines and headaches. It's not quite clear what the connection is, but there is one.
I'm not sure what type of Migraine meds have stopped working for you, but this isn't unusual. Sometimes, we have to change the medications we take because our bodies stop responding to our usual meds. Sometimes, after a while, the old meds are effective again. Since you've had a TIA, most doctors will recommend that you not use triptans (Imitrex, Maxalt, Zomig, etc.) or ergotamines (DHE and Migranal).
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.
Happy New Year and good luck,
Teri
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