Wednesday, August 13, 2008 DancingThrough asks

Q: To medicate or not to medicate

I've been dealing with dizziness, headaches, and ear pain for the past few months. I just had an ENG to test my inner ears today, and will get a call from the doctor with results within the next week. He suggested before the test that I might need to start on topamax or a related drug to help deal with the headaches, etc. The problem is, I'm already on a high dosage of an antidepressant that should be helping with these symptoms, but obviously isn't. Also, I'm only 19, and he wants to avoid over medicating me as much as possible, which I really appreciate.

I'm concerned about going on more meds, but I can't imagine continuing to just "live with it" like this. My energy has greatly decreased in recent months and I am no longer able to concentrate as well on the things I love doing.

Are there other treatments besides medications, and will going on more medication at my age be bad for my health later?

Answers (1)

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Nancy Harris Bonk

8/19/08 10:13am

Hi DancingThrough,

When we get more than three or four Migraines a month (there is a difference between Migraine and headache) it may be time for Migraine prevention medication. A Migraine specialist can help you get the right diagnosis because they are the experts in this area. We have a list of patient recommended Migraine specialists you can see by clicking HERE.

What is a Migraine? It is a genetic neurologic disease that has flare ups, the attack themselves. Does you head pain get worse with activity? Are you sensitive to light and/or sound? Any stomach upset with your head pain or visual issues? Dizziness, and certainly ear pain for some can be part of a Migraine attack. Anatomy of a Migraine explains in detail the four phases of a Migraine attack. See what you think.

You may want to try keeping a Migraine diary. This allows you (and the doctor) to see what may be triggering an attack for you. Some things that can trigger, not cause, a Migraine are dehydration, changes in sleeping patterns, chocolate and the weather. Click HERE for our free downloadable diary.

Good luck

Nancy

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Q: To medicate or not to medicate

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