Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Tuesday, July 21, 2009 Dr. Sarah asks

Q: Possible Hormone Headaches

I am a 36 year old female and have had migraine headaches with cyclic vomiting for 26 years. Before that I have had a history of abdominal migraine with bouts of vomiting and cramping.  The headaches started at the onset of my period. I currently have no children and my mother, grandmother, and first cousin all have a history of migraines.  My migraines have been worse than ever that last two years averaging 20-30 headaches per month.  I have long suspected that my headaches are related to hormones but have never gotten my hormones checked.  Why I believe this is that I can always predict my ovulation and period by my headaches. I have also been in several car accidents, on in which I was hit on the right temple.  I go to a neurologist where I am currently taking  50 mg x2  topomax, 5 mg oxycodon 12/month, migranol for rescue, zofran for nausea. I see a physichiatrist for depression, sleep disorder and anxiety and am taking 60 mg of cymbalta and clonipin as needed.  My lifestyle is greatly impacted and I live my life in pain.  I feel as if my physician does a cursory job treating my symptoms but I feel that there is more to the problem.  I was wondering if seeing an endocrinologist would be an approach that I should follow.  I am located in the Boston area and would be willing to recommended clinic there. I am desperate for some relief. Any help would be appreciated.

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Teri Robert, Health Guide
8/ 1/09 6:00pm

Sarah,

 

-:¦:-•:*'""*:•.-:¦:-•*Welcome to MyMigraineConnection!*•-:¦:-•:*'""*:•.-:¦:-

 

 

Hormone fluctuations are a big trigger for many women. As we progres through life, it's not unusual for the pattern to change.

 

Migranal, which can actually work to stop the Migrainous process in the brain, thus stopping all the symptoms, is usually a first-line medication, not a rescue medication.

 

The best recommendation we can offer is for you to see a Migraine 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.

 

I realize you asked about an endocrinologist, but even though he or she would know a great deal about the endocrine system, it's unlikely that he or she would truly understand the interaction between hormones and Migraine disease.

 

Please let us know how things go for you?

 

Teri

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By Dr. Sarah— Last Modified: 11/13/10, First Published: 07/21/09