Migraineurs, as sufferers are at times referred, frequently find themselves at odds with the medical profession. Oliver Sacks wrote in his book Migraine that migraine patients have additional complaints beside their migraines. Their concerns are not listened to by physicians. They are given medication, dismissed and charged by the doctors. Inherent to this patient and doctor disconnect is the variety and personal attributes of each individual’s headache experience.
Most patients find the condition and its triggers individualized. One person may have pain with nausea, vomiting, weakness. Another person may have visual disturbances, extremity numbness and a feeling of euphoria or depression. Still, someone else may experience a varied combination of all symptoms or follow the textbook stages. Triggers may vary from certain scents, to physical or emotional exhaustion, to anything undefined. Many sufferers are encouraged to keep a headache diary or log.
Discussion of a patient’s symptoms is essential to diagnosis and treatment. Headaches can have numerous origins and should be differentiated. Several types of headaches, such as sinus or cluster headaches, have similar and overlapping symptoms. Once migraine is established, the sufferer and doctor can work on treatment options. Treatments range from drug therapy such as triptans to physical therapy like acupuncture.
Sufferers must take charge of their condition. Being cognizant and diligent about recording triggers, symptoms, and successful treatment are beneficial in the doctor and patient relationship. Migraine headache may not be cured, but it can be controlled.
Bud Adrian, a retired engineer, now is 72. He got migraine quite often when he was still active. After following the migraine headache program, his migraine has gone now. For more information on how to permanently eliminate migraine and headaches, visit: Eliminate Migraines Permanently
