Say WHAT?

Okay I'm way behind but here's Day 6 of the WEGO Health NHBPM:

What’s the most ridiculous thing you've heard about your health condition? Was there any context? What did you think at the time you heard it – and what do you think of it now?

The most ridiculous thing I've heard about migraines was all the "remedies" like coffee (caffeine is a migraine trigger), a crazy green smoothie where half the ingredients are common migraine triggers, and how they can be "cured." Many just don't understand that migraines are about controlling triggers, not finding a cure. I'll always have them, but some days will be less than others. Since many don't understand, I constantly get "have you tried this?" and "well my aunt's dog's godmother did this and she was cured." Most of the time I get annoyed and just say that yes I've tried it or I calmly say that I've tried everything I can afford/handle at the moment. If I tried every remedy on the internet, I'd be even more broke than I am! 

Now when I hear people trying to help, I educate them. I let them know that I know they mean well and are trying to help, but my doctors and I are developing plans to try out. I also mention that due to this illness I'm very stressed and frustrated which can trigger another migraine so I do not wish to talk about it often. I use my writing as a tool to express feelings and concerns as well as share what I've tried and how it worked/didn't work. Many can read and choose to take it in or not. 

Risky Business

Each time you try a new treatment you take a risk. How do you initiate a discussion with your doctor so you can make an educated decision about trying it as a team?

When my doctor and I first discussed Botox, I thought what most people thought: oh great my face is going to be frozen and crazy looking. Then we did our research. Not only is the toxin completely different than the cosmetic Botox, but they way they administer it is different as well. Botox is injected in the areas that are most affected by migraines: the forehead, temples, back of the head, and side of the neck. Basically, it gives those muscles a breather while your other muscles take over. 

When talking about a new treatment, I am open and honest with my doctor. I express all fears, doubts, and hopes. You don't want to get set up with thinking it's going to be a miracle and you don't want to make doubts without even trying. If the risks sound too harsh, then take some time to think before trying. Sometimes the side effects of the medications/treatments are worse than the symptoms themselves (ex: Topamax). 

Your doctor wants to help you, which is why they suggest different treatments. No migraineur is the same so no treatment is exactly the same. Be open and honest and don't be afraid to ask questions. It's your body.

Sophie's Choice

What's the toughest treatment you've had to face? Many neurological medications have so many side effects that it seems the migraine is so much easier. The toughest treatment for me is the actual treatment.

Premonition

Today's MHAM topic is where would you like to see migraine and headache treatment go for the future. 

If I had a genie, I'd want a cure. Genies and migraine cures don't exist though. We try treatments, diets, alternate medicines, prayers, and so much more. So what does the future of migraine treatments go? I'd like to see more wholistic treatments rather than medications. Medications have so many awful side effects that the migraines sometimes are better. So why can't we find some natural ways to get relief? I'd like less side effects and more low grade days.