brain injuries have been reported following these rides. Significant headaches after the rides should always prompt a neurological evaluation.
– Mark Green, MD, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York City
Put Out the Fire
I have been suffering from migraines for many years, but in my 40s, they became more intense and longer lasting. Now I can go for months with a migraine. I take daily prophylactic medications, but my migraines are not deterred. My neurologist prescribed a Medrol dose pack, which broke the cycle, but the migraines eventually came back. He started me on a low dose of Depakote, which seems to have really helped. The problem is that I do not like the side effects of Depakote. I am taking only 125 mg daily, but I am always tired. I take it at night to try to avoid daytime drowsiness.
I had Botox years ago before it was approved for the treatment of migraines. It worked wonderfully. My insurance, however, does not completely cover the price of this treatment.
I would really like to know how to stop the firestorm in my brain. I am beyond tired of taking medications long term. I have heard of a nerve block, but I have several questions about the procedure. For example, which nerve is it performed on, how safe is it and have studies been done to determine the long-term effects?
My migraines are accompanied by nausea, photosensitivity and phonosensitivity. All I want to do is lie in bed with no noise and diminished light. I also suffer from fibromyalgia. Once the nerves are hyperstimulated, I am in agony. Then there is the rebound effect from the medication. What are the
treatment options for people who suffer like this? – Judith E. All preventive medications have side effects and risks, although Depakote is one of only a few medications approved by the FDA for migraine prophylaxis. Botox is only used— and only useful— for chronic migraine, which means 15 or more days per month with headaches lasting more than four hours. Various nerve blocks and stimulators are used to treat some headaches, but their use is far too complicated to cover here. You need to discuss all of this, and further treatment options, with a headache specialist.
– Mark Green, MD, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York City
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