I just got over another migraine that lasted six days and thought i was going to die. I couldn't eat or even drink anything because of the nausea and vomitimg. I work in a two man medical practice and could not get a fill in for two days, which i went there and laid on the floor and answered phones. I have tried various drugs such ans Imitrex shots, thought they would kill me, Stadol, Florinal with codeine, Zomig, Imitrex pills, beta blockers and nothing worked. Recently my docotor called in Maxalt and it worked!! I was so relieved but now wonder what will happen the next time. I get these about every six weeks and they come with a vengence. I recently have been wondering whether my tmj is not part of the problem. I noticed I have been grinding my teeth lately and my jaws are constantly sore. WOUld like to hear from some of you I know I am not alone out there. What do you think?
DONNA MAYTAS <kikidecarlo@webtv.com>
struthers, oh USA - Date: 11/08/98 (Sun)
Time: 08:46:29 PM
I am approaching the first anniversary of the beginning of this chronic attack. My doctor, who sees me weekly, is as frustrated as I am - trying to find a degree of comfort and pain relief. I am currently taking Verapamil, metoclopramide, amd diclofenac as preventatives and Fiorinal, and Stadol for pain. Although I occasionally get a little relief from demoral shots (3 instead of 5) each day is ruined by this constant pain. My Dr. will not sign a "back to work" certificate for me as there has been no change in my condition. The insurance companies, however, claim here is no objective evidence to support my claim for disability benefits. I have gone through every new medication and drug combinations after seeing pain specialists, neurologists, chiropractors and massage therapists.The diasability officers seem to think that since a CT scan and lumbar puncture were negative I am not really sick. Meanwhile wee have gone through all our savings trying to make ends meet during this past year. I am hoping that someone can give me some useful information to supply the company that will support my apppeal and convince them that chronic pain, though subjective, is a true disability.
Judy Barron <jnbarron@home.com>
London, Ont Canada - Date: 11/08/98 (Sun)
Time: 05:14:25 PM
CAROL CARDILLO, I tried to email you but the email address that you
had down on the journal was incorrect. Could you please email me w/
the correct address and I will forward my letter to you. Thanks. Denise
Denise <djolly8314@aol.com>
Midland, Tx. USA - Date: 11/07/98 (Sat)
Time: 11:26:57 PM
I have been suffering with migraines since 1981 and they have become worse and more frequent as the years go by. Right now I am getting at least one a month lasting three days. I am in bed for two days not able to eat or drink anything and vomiting until I have dry heaves. The third day is for recovery.
I have tried everything... accupuncture, TMJ surgery, chiropractic, hysterectomy, beta blockers, Imitrex etc.. Imitrex worked the first few times but it does nothing for me now.
Last month I started a new diet recommended by a doctor from Johns Hopkins (on the internet). The main thing was to remove all caffiene from your diet and to stop taking quick fixes such as Exedrin, Tylenol, advil and all other pain killers. It has only been a month so I can't jump up and down yet but everything the doctor said made sense and for the first time I feel there is a chance for me to kick this. Do not eat the following: onions, bananas, citrus fruits & juices, aged cheeses, fresh baked bread (yeast), bagels, donuts, chocolate, nuts, alcohol, soy, processed meats (bacon, hot dogs, cold cuts etc) and msg.
I will keep you posted.
Agnes
Agnes Barreto <Barr0401@aol.com>
Venice, Fl USA - Date: 11/07/98 (Sat)
Time: 11:13:07 PM
I am very excited about finding this journal. I started having migraines 4 years ago after the birth of my second child. I have tried so many different kinds of medication for prevention and for abortive therapy. Of course, depression has resulted from this. No medication seems to control my headaches, not even these new great drugs like Maxalt, Imitrex, etc. I suffer between 3 to 5 headaches a week. They are labled intractable migraines. I am on disability because I can not work or even function as a mother while like this. A month ago the doctor started me on long-term Methadone therapy. I have seen a world of difference. I take the medication in the morning, at lunch, and at dinner. The medication has a long-life span. It builds up in your body and stops the pain before it reaches your head. You can still have the aura that comes with migraines. I hope this medication continues to work. If not my next step will be a headache pain clinic. I hope this information my help someone. Please email me if anyone needs to talk. I really wish there was a support group out there for us.
rkandpk@aol.com
Pam <rkandpk@aol.com>
GA USA - Date: 11/07/98 (Sat)
Time: 08:31:55 PM
It was as I thought-a headache is coming on. I took some Excedrin Migraine, sometimes it helps, sometimes it does'nt. Period headaches are the hardest ones for me to deal with. They can hit anytime around the time my period is due. This is probably what this is. I'm full swing into my period, and the headache that has been trying to get in all week long has finally arrived. It is one-sided pain, I feel light headed, and sick to my stomach. Lights sometimes
bother me as well. I hate dealing with this each month. I used to not get them as much at this time of month, but the older I get, the more I get them. I have heard that Zomig is good for menstrual migraines. Has any one out there had any success with that and other meds? I hate dealing with the fact that a headache can leave me feeling bad for a couple of days at a time. I don't like to take off once a month or more at work. I just go in and deal with the pain the best I can.
Barbara B
USA - Date: 11/07/98 (Sat)
Time: 07:52:50 PM
This is the first time for me writing and I'm glad I found this site.
I've had migraines for roughly 15 years and have finally (I think) foundd the answer---well my Dr. did. With my headaches (love how they become pesonalized)I am also depressed and have read how many of us are put on antidepressive meds. I was on Prozac for a year and a half and it quit working. I went to the Dr. and he put me on
Celexa 20mg once a day. I am 3 days from my period and so far, knock ion wood, NO PAIN ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Not only is there no pain, I laugh a lot and hug my family more and the sex is more frequent. All of these symptoms are related to my migraines. Will keep all posted on howe this new drug works.
Thank you for letting me tell you about my headaches. Should we nametheem?????
Amy
Amy <kfam@lightstream.net>
Mentor, OH USA - Date: 11/07/98 (Sat)
Time: 06:25:25 PM
