They have me on a fentynal patch that just keeps getting increase and me more addicted. How can I get off these, but still get some relief. I am at a loss on where to go or how to get treatment that isn't non narcodic. I just need help to get the right answers and not get the run around. There just doesn't seem to be anyone that can help.
kim
Hello, Kim,
I'm sorry you're in such a tough situation. The best suggestion I can offer is to get yourself to a good Migraine specialist. Many of us - myself included - have found that to be the key to starting to make progress with managing our Migraines.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.
There aren't enough specialists, so I don't know if there will be one very close to you. When I first needed a specialist, my husband and I drove eight hours each direction to get to one. It was honestly very well worth it.
I doubt that you're addicted to the fentanyl patch since you're using it for pain. You may be dependent upon it, but that's not the same thing. Unfortunately, it may be causing you to have other headaches called medication overuse headaches, which occur when we take opioids or other medications to relive Migraines or pain more than two or three days a week. You can read more about that in Medication Overuse Headache - When the Remedy Backfires.
Please know, Kim, that you're not alone. We're right here to support you. Please let us know if there's other information you need, if we can do anything for you, or if you just need to talk?
Teri
Kim,
You don't say where you live, and the Mayo has clinics in different places, so I don't know quite what to suggest other than to keep looking for a specialist, even if it means some travel. I waited nine months for my first appointment, but it really was worth it.
Happy holidays to you too!
Teri
I am sorry, I thought I mentioned it. Anyway we live outside of Phoenix about 1.5 hrs. and as large as it is, it only has 2 migraine specialists in the valley. At this time (and for the past 3 years) they are not taking new patients. So we go from day to day! I really hope for good wishes for all during their holidays times.
K,
When was the last time you checked with the headache center at the Mayo in Scottsdale? And did you check specifically with the headache center there, not the neurology department? There are at least three specialists there, Dr. Dodock, Dr. Vargas, and Dr. Schwedt. They're all wonderful, and I was certain at least some of them were taking new patients.
Teri
I have information and applications to be called when they are available, with Dodock and Vargas. I will have to look into Schwedt. Our insurance has now changed and that we will have to check them out. Thank you for your help and someday maybe they will find answer for the reasons. Best wishes...
kim
Dr. Schwedt is well established, but hasn't been at the Mayo very long. You might find that you can get an appointment more easily with him.
You're welcome, Kim. Wish I could do more. Please keep me posted, and let me know if there's anything else I can do?
Best wishes and happy holidays to you and your family,
Teri
I'm in the same boat, but without any narcotics. Next week, Botox (1st treament) ANOTHER MRI and then a reading. Wed, Thur and Fri. Oh and I work full time. HOW? Its nuts. I take zanaflex and when I have to take one at work, I fall asleep at my desk. :/
I have been on: Topamax (dopamax), Elavil (made me mean), Relpax (no real relief noted), Namenda (vivid gruesome nightmares), Cymbalta (now), Verapamil (no relief noted), Occipital Nerve blocks (seem to help occular but massive neck pain and cant lie on back and still headaches), accupuncture (once, complete out of pocket expense with no relief, but people say I needed to go more), maxalt (no help), midrin (no help), treximet (no help) and I have Sumavel Dose Pro shots that do work great., but limited to two a day. I've also been in PT.
On top of these, I have phenegram and take that with 2 benedryl and 2 advil. Its a nice concoction and helps, but only for a while.
I've been in the ER with dilotted and I've been in clinic with Depakote drip. Depakote did NOTHING but cost me 700.00 and Dilotted is nice, but the only way to get it is in ER. It gave me the most relief for a few days.
I am living a dehabilitated life, missing many events, work, etc. I am thinking if my hrs were reduced, for a while to get me on track, that could be quite helpful. If not, maybe disability is in sight. I can barely function. I went home last Friday and was in bed until Sunday. Even Sunday, I still had a headache.
If I have a couple drinks, I feel so much better. But drinking is not the answer. Why cant I get relief?
My husband got a tens unit and when I went to PT before, they used it on me. So I am going to use it, too.
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2013 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
27 Foods That Can trigger Migraines 
22 Things About Migraines You May Not Know 
10 Things NOT to Say to a Person with Migraines 
12 Tips for Living Well with Migraines 
Thank you so much for your time. I have been to 2 Neurologists, a pain management clinic and going on my 3rd. Doctor. And yes I do take Vicoden as a kick in pain control. Over all there isn't any thing anyone can do for me, except make me as comfortable as possible. But in the meantime, I am without a life, my husband suffers without having a wife, my house is filthy and my poor dogs just look at me. I am agoraphobic which doesn't help the situation. The headache specialists are over booked and no new patients and that's at the mayo clinic. So maybe I am not alone with the headaches, but it sure gets old and lonely. So you see, I have been looking into whatever I can for help, with no answers in return, except "we are sorry".
Again thank you for your time. Have a good holiday!