Do you get Migraines?

[fairykin]

I'm sorry You all suffer from migraines.

mine it seems are getting worse, had a catscan on friday.

Mine are triggered by sharp bright light and layered noices.

Every year we invest in some expensive sunglasses because they are dark and block the sun.

My mother had migraines and so did my grandmother.

Noone in our family drinks caffine or eats chocolate.. i wonder if this has something to do with it.

 

[torinsmom]

I'm sorry you are suffering. I get about 15 a month myself and have done so since I was about 10. If you are suffering an increase check to see what may be new around you... florescent lights, new foods or drinks, shampoo, detergents, fragrance of someone else in your house or medication such as birth control or vitamins, even new paint or flooring in your home... or are you snacking on your kids candy from Halloween... the list of triggers can be as large as your life.

As for what I take, Fioricet works for me and has done so for 19 years. If I didn't have it my life would be unlivable. I've tried other things but nothing else ever worked, besides all the alternatives are both more expensive & more dangerous. Sometimes an advil will stop a headache from becoming a migraine and sometimes a mug of Espresso with sugar might work but both remedies rarely work as I've gotten older.

I WISH my dr. would give me Fiorcet again! That is the only thing that has worked for me, other than 1000 mg of ibuprofen several times a day And I don't know about you, but it gives me NO side effects and I can work while I'm on it, which is great. She tells me that it is addictive, despite the fact that I have gone months without it. Maybe I need to go to another dr. and ask for it.

Marsha

 

[TLSnell1981]

Thanks for the replies. I have figured out some of my triggers. A big one is changes in weather patterns which I think is why I'm having trouble today. I also cannot drink any carbonated drinks-that has been a drag-I love coke. But I have had a really stressful couple of weeks so that is also part of it. The meds are helping but then after I take them I feel really wiped out.

I had severe migraines for many years. Pain meds can sometimes do more harm than good. I'm sure you are aware of rebound headaches. Finding my triggers... was the beginning to gaining control over my migraines. I went from several a month to several a year. I use imitrex injection, if I am unable to fend off an attack.

No one can truly understand a migraine if they have never suffered from one. They are NOT headaches. Good luck!

 

[5 for WDW]

I too suffer with migraines. Mine are usually triggered by lights, stress, and changes in weather.

I had one last month that had me calling into work and staying in bed for hours. They are just brutal.

I have been on Imitrex for years. It was working fine until recently when it seemed to be taking a long time to kick in. The Dr has me on Treximet now. It is from the makers of Imitrex. It is Imitrex and Naproxen combined.
I have been very happy with how well it has been working.

I feel for everyone else suffering from migraines. I have a few friends that think "they are just headaches". As you know, there is no comparison.

 

[mfd25wife]

I'm trying Topamax again right now. The problem seems to be that it works at the higher does, but that was when I started having memory problems. The tingling was annoying, but it went after awhile. There was another pill my Dr. wanted me to try but it was $360/mo supply and I just could not do it.

BC's help sometimes. But, I know I have to be careful of the rebound headaches. I am fortunate because I am married to a paramedic and have been prescribed phenergan vials and saline because I was getting violently ill about once every week or two. Those are now more like every 2-3 weeks. He is able to run a line and I use stadol nose spray those days just because I cannot keep anything else down and the Imitrex does not work on them. I have migraines 2-3 days a week, but they are down from 5-6 days so the neuro says they are actually considered an improvement. I also have phenergan gel that I can rub on my arm when I am working if I can catch the migraines before they get really really bad. I almost always am puking, but someimes it is worse than others. I am one that usually has signs. My vision blurs, my nose congests, my left eye waters. I do not use the Maxalt and Imitrex as much because my arteries have started spasming so I have to use demerol/phenergan more if I can keep it down. I don't like it, but the Dr. says I have to break the cycle of the migraines. As for the cost, I am amazed at the cost of the imitrex injections and the Maxalt sublingals, but they work great.

As for triggers, we know weather is huge for me. I can predict moisture in the air better than the weathermen/women. Flashing lights get me. At WDW, the RRC will get me if I don't close my eyes. I don't ride in a car behind a school bus at night. My DD did compete in cheer and that was always a challenge since there was always flashing lights, but I just dealt with it. As for the sun, I pay the money for good polarized sunglasses and wear them if there is any hint of sunlight. Sensory overload bothers me. I try to not be around conflicting noises too much, if that makes sense - three or four conversations, music, tv, etc all at the same time. One or two things is good. More, is not. Another thing for me is to watch how much water I drink. I tend to be chronically dehydrated so I have to drink a lot or they are worse.

 

[mfd25wife]

I have been on Imitrex for years. It was working fine until recently when it seemed to be taking a long time to kick in. The Dr has me on Treximet now. It is from the makers of Imitrex. It is Imitrex and Naproxen combined.
I have been very happy with how well it has been working.

I feel for everyone else suffering from migraines. I have a few friends that think "they are just headaches". As you know, there is no comparison.

I did get a sample of the Treximet. I may try to get more. I forgot about it. Thanks! My meds are high enough. if I can get samples, yeah!

Yes, I'm kind of mean. I would not wish migraines on anyone long term, but I wish everyone would get just one really good one ... My parents saw me actually puking every time I turned my head before it finally dawned on them it really was bad. Before that, my dad would make comments about how he would rather have a headache than sinus problems any day.

Funny thing to me is that my sinuses actually react with my migraines. My neuro said it is one of my symptoms. That and some nerve issues that I absolutely detest.

 

[NEVERENOUGHWDW]

I only had 2 migraines in my life until menopause hot!

Now I'm about 5 a month. I actually had to take an Imetrex this morning. Some days it works other days it's useless.

My triggers seem to be stress and sleepless nights also the result of menopause.

 

[TLSnell1981]

...have been prescribed phenergan vials and saline because I was getting violently ill about once every week or two. Those are now more like every 2-3 weeks. He is able to run a line and I use stadol nose spray I don't like it, but the Dr. says I have to break the cycle of the migraines.

I also become violently ill with migraines. Phenergan is my friend. I used stadol nasal spray for about a year. It was very instrumental in reducing the number of migraines I have. It knocked them out immediately....no rebound headaches. I have learned to control most of my triggers.

 

[mfd25wife]

I also become violently ill with migraines. Phenergan is my friend. I used stadol nasal spray for about a year. It was very instrumental in reducing the number of migraines I have. It knocked them out immediately....no rebound headaches. I have learned to control most of my triggers.

It is great when it finally kicks in. I vividly remember him telling me it took 2.5 doses of phen by IV and the stadol to finally knock me out, but when it did, I finally got relief.

You give me hope that it will get better.

 

[mfd25wife]

I only had 2 migraines in my life until menopause hot!

Now I'm about 5 a month. I actually had to take an Imetrex this morning. Some days it works other days it's useless.

My triggers seem to be stress and sleepless nights also the result of menopause.

I hear a lot get relief after menopause. They never thought mine were hormone related so I'm not sure. I hope you feel better soon. they did tell me the Imitrex works on those morning ones best. But, if it doesn't work, they send in the "rescue" drugs-meperdine, hydrocodone, etc. always always have phenergan. I have three kinds-pills, gel, and vials and go NOWHERE without them.

 

[Dax]

Yet another to sufferer list..

Had them since I was a kid...

Been on tons of stuff...Right now, cocktail of the moment is Fiorcet, and when it does not work 100mg of Imitrex, my wonder drug. Have done all 3 types of Imitrex, pills, epi-pen, and the nasal spray. The last 2 are best, because they QUICK.

Dr took me off Excedrin, cause he told me I would destroy my liver...I was popping them like candy. Thats why he gave me Fiorcet. Joked now I cannot take a work drug test..I will pop positive due to the barbituate level in my system.

At the onset of a headache, I pop 2 Fiorcet. That usually will quiet it. If not gone or going within an hour..Imitrex it is!

I was on Topomax too. Then I almost fell asleep at the wheel. At 2 in the afternoon. That was the end of that.

Triggers are mostly hormones, but I find weather, and low blood sugar also trigger, sometimes, caffine.

Hope you get releif soon

 

[TLSnell1981]

It is great when it finally kicks in. I vividly remember him telling me it took 2.5 doses of phen by IV and the stadol to finally knock me out, but when it did, I finally got relief.

You give me hope that it will get better.

I was able to concentrate on what was causing the migraines....not having to deal with the rebound headaches. That was huge. If, one hasn't experienced it..they have no idea the energy expended..when dealing with migraines. I can usually avoid a full blown migraine IF I can keep my triggers at no more than two. Hormones, weather, smells and stress are my top triggers.

I was once asked, how I could give myself an injection. My reply? I would drive a rusty nail through my hand "if" it would get rid of my migraine.

 

[mfd25wife]

I was able to concentrate on what was causing the migraines....not having to deal with the rebound headaches. That was huge. If, one hasn't experienced it..they have no idea the energy expended..when dealing with migraines. I can usually avoid a full blown migraine IF I can keep my triggers at no more than two. Hormones, weather, smells and stress are my top triggers.

I was once asked, how I could give myself an injection. My reply? I would drive a rusty nail through my hand "if" it would get rid of my migraine.

Oh, I forgot about the smells. You are so right. I love candles, but if I go to a store that has them, I can't smell too many, or it hits. The really strong cinnamon ones are bad and certain cleaners seem to do it. Deisel is bad. I remember when we were in St. Louis one time and they had a McDonalds on a barge. I tried to go on it, but the diesel did me in. I went back to the park and waited on Dh to bring the food back. I read somewhere that some people especially those with the auras have a stronger sense of smell. My DH teases me because I can smell blood from across the house if he cuts himself for example.

The rusty nail is a good way of putting it to people that don't understand. Thanks! People have heard me wimper giving myself a shot in the bathroom at work (not the needle, but the Imitrex hurts) and mention it, but when I never thought to tell them that.

 

[tinkerdorabelle]

Bright intense lights bring them on with me, chocolate, or caffeine early in the day, I can't drink coffee, very rarely, or even Coke early in the day. Stress definitely or lack of sleep. But I do feel bad bc they are really rough, I get the aura with the zigzag lights, and headache can last as long as 2-3 days. They also come around menstruation. The only thing that works for me is Fioricet. Imitrex doesn't work at all for me. I also try to stay hydrated, avoid processed foods, etc. You're going to think I'm crazy but take calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, (you can find pills that contain all 3) which I started taking to try to help intense menstrual cramps. I learned this from a natural health class I was taking. Calcium and magnesium are called "natures tranquilizers" and have a relaxing effect on the body. Just try it, it can't hurt. ;o) It actually made my menstrual cramps better by about 80%, some months I get no cramps now, I used to double over with pain, when taken regularly, seems to be helping my migraines also. Eat regularly also, skipping meals definitely brings them on with me.

 

[pennst8r]

yes! Usually if I take a few ibuprofin while I still see the "zigzag of light" , I don't get the headache. But I still feel like someone beat me up the next morning.

I've never been happy about it til now--did you see the study that women with migraines are 30% (I think that was the stat) less likely to get breast cancer?

 

[tazdev3225]

Not only do I get the occasional migraine, my DH and DD both suffer from them. DH has always had a remedy that he swears works. When we were first married I refused to be in the same room with him because of it. He would take two Excederins and rub Vicks vaporub on his forehead, temples and a huge glob right under his nose. He would then drink a vanilla milkshake and go to sleep. I have since learned that the Vicks works because it works by opening up something to do with the blood flow to the brain. Studies have also shown that there is a property in the vanilla bean that actually is a natural remedy. Gatorade also helps for some reason, again having to do with the ingredients in it. I take 800 mg of ibuprofen and an extra strong coffee and that usually works. DD tries the milkshake or a really large cola of some sort. Caffeine is a trigger but also helps when you get one.
Topamax is called Dopamax, in fact my own DR called it that because of the side effects, I compared it to being a Zombie. I was on it for awhile and loved all the weight I lost. The side effects can be tough to take. Besides being in a fog I had constant tingling in my hands and feet.
We have all learned the triggers and try to avoid them when we can. DD it is too much processed food and hormones. DH it is artificial sweeteners, they cripple him. Mine is forgetting to have caffeine every day and the weather. The caffeine isn't a problem but I can tell when a big storm is brewing.

 

[dismom2]

I hear a lot get relief after menopause. They never thought mine were hormone related so I'm not sure. I hope you feel better soon. they did tell me the Imitrex works on those morning ones best. But, if it doesn't work, they send in the "rescue" drugs-meperdine, hydrocodone, etc. always always have phenergan. I have three kinds-pills, gel, and vials and go NOWHERE without them.

Phenergan is a trigger for restless legs syndrome, so if you have it, don't take this drug or your legs will drive you nuts.

I take Relpax, or sometimes Fioricet-- but only if I catch it in the beginning, and sometimes that doesn't do the job. I was on Topamax for a while, but I could not deal with the memory loss issues. It has a reputation of being called, "dopamax" because you can't think straight on it. I just can't deal with that. I feel sorry for anyone who gets these horrible headaches. I used to get several a week, but now I "only" get 4-5 a month. I am still learning what triggers them. I know that artificial sweetner, lack of sleep, stress and some other foods cause them for me, but I am trying to keep a diary now when I get one so I can learn more.

 

[Calliaz]

Phenergan is a trigger for restless legs syndrome, so if you have it, don't take this drug or your legs will drive you nuts.

Phenergan makes me so jittery and on edge I feel like punching a wall. It is a nightmare. I never knew it was a migraine treatment!

 

[ClarabelleCowFan]

Phenergan makes me so jittery and on edge I feel like punching a wall. It is a nightmare. I never knew it was a migraine treatment!

I just use Phenergan to try to quell the nausea when I have a migraine. It does nothing for the pounding headache. Zofran works so much better for me but it is quite pricey.

 

[nskjerven]

I started to find relief when I started my prevenative meds. First Norotypritoline (low dose) it is often given for depression in higher doses.

I was getting migraines all the time....my MD put be on Inderal LA 80mg a few years ago and it works like a charm! It's actually a blood pressure med (A beta-blocker) but they found that it also prevents migraines. I rarely get headaches anymore AND my BP is now perfect too (it was borderline high thanks to heredity )

Then I layered in the Inderal which also helped my bp for a while, now I'm also on norvasc for BP

I WISH my dr. would give me Fiorcet again! That is the only thing that has worked for me, other than 1000 mg of ibuprofen several times a day And I don't know about you, but it gives me NO side effects and I can work while I'm on it, which is great. She tells me that it is addictive, despite the fact that I have gone months without it. Maybe I need to go to another dr. and ask for it.

Marsha

And finally the only thing I can take that works is Fiorcet. I've had doctors tell me the same thing about it being addictive. I found a new doctor which understands that I don't over use it. I tried all the migraine meds on the market, imatrex, relpax, etc... but got no relief from them and sadly I'm getting a big one right now and off to pop a pill and take a nap