After 36 years on various meds w/varied results, how can it be determined if my current migraines are due to my very tight fascia or a neuro issue? I have fibromyalgia; visit a good massage therapist and a physical therapist 1x each/mo. for bodywork and trigger point release. I'm in menopause, so I no longer have the hormonal-pattern headaches from the past. I've seen a neurologist for many years-already on low-dose Neurontin, Efffexor, w/Amerge and Fiorinal as needed. Dr. lately prescribed seizure meds. I am hesitant for new side effects. Had a clear MRI (or CT scan?) years ago. Any further direction would be most appreciated.
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Q: How does one know when to try something 'else' for migraines instead of new meds?
Answers (1)
11/21/09 11:38pm
Hi readerwoman,
Migraine is a genetic neurological disease thought to be caused by overactive neurons in our brains and genetics. "Tight fascia" may trigger a Migraine attack, while genetics and overactive neurons cause the disease... does that help clear things up in a general kind of way? In your family history there are probably relatives that have had "sick" headaches, or "sinus-like" headaches, or people just didn't talk about how their head pain felt and went to sleep in a dark room. But they were most likely Migraines. Migraine - What Is It? is a great article.
One of the real problems with Migraine disease is that we seem to go through a lot of trial and error before we find medications that work. Then once we find a combination that works, our Migraine pattern changes. Now we are back to square one. But here's the thing - sometimes on round two with medications they seem to work. I am on my second round with zonegran, and so far ok. General rule of thumb is, more than three Migraine attacks a month, it is time to talk to your doctor about preventive medication.
Anyone who has three or more Migraines a month needs to be talking with their doctor about prevention. There's growing evidence that Migraine is a progressive brain disease. A recent study showed that Migraines can cause brain damage, and that people with three or more Migraines a month are more susceptible to this damage. For more information, see Is Migraine a Progressive Brain Disease? and Yes, Migraines Can Cause Brain Damage.
Good luck
Nancy
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By readerwoman— Last Modified: 12/24/10, First Published: 11/19/09
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Nancy,
Thank you for your informative reply. I had read about the potential for brain damage. Since I seem to have a brain that functions with holes like swiss cheese, perhaps I am already an unlucky recipient. More likely a combination of med side-effects and stress.
I will continue to research the topic. Reading between the lines of your reply makes me think that because of the damage potential, it might be a good idea to at least try the new seizure med in addition to my current supports. I guess that's why the Dr. prescribed it.