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Carole D	May-25-03, 00:41 AM (CMT)
"Migraine & Fibromyalgia"
LAST EDITED ON May-25-03 AT 01:27 PM (CMT) Wow, there are so many of us out there......... This is my first attempt at "on-line support" so, please, bear with me. I began getting migraines at age 30. I'd had bad headaches all my life, but these were different - I'd wake at 4 or 5 AM feeling as if a nail had been driven through one eye, and would have pain for a day or two. A few years later (after getting health insurance) I had a check-up that included a CAT scan, and was given Vicoden. What a miracle!!! One or two tablets and NO PAIN!!! Ten tabs would last 3-4 months, & problem solved. I had my life back for the next two years. Then I moved from Hawaii to New Jersey, and within a year I was having daily headaches which sparked more migraines. That began four years of trying every specialist & drug you can think of. Nothing seemed to work. I had no relief of either headache (sinus?) or migraine pain, although I was using 30 Extra Strength Vicodins each month, along with 6-10 Excedrin per day, and decongestants as needed. Countless MRI's, CAT Scans, medication protocols, & specialists brought me nothing but "a pat on the head" & a suggestion that I see a psychiatrist. I tried that too, but gave up after more useless medications that had HORRIBLE side-effects. That was it - I lost faith in Doctors (a very famous migraine specialist ignored the calendar I provided that showed my migraines were DEFINITELY related to my period, and, instead, gave me an anti-seizure medication that was NO HELP. I later read in TIME magazine of a study he presented showing the benefit of these medications in migraines. It was wonderful to know that, although I recieved NO REAL TREATMENT FROM HIM, I was able to help his study..........) I eventually asked an OBGYN to put me on birth control pills constantly (the theory being "no period no fluctuation in Estrogen levels = no migraine") and it worked - another miracle!!! For two years I had NO 4 AM migraines!!!! I continued to have chronic daily headaches (New Jersey is notorious for sinus problems/headaches) & they occasionally sparked a daytime migraine, but it was do-able. I learned about rebound, started alternating & cutting-back pain meds, and actually started to feel optomistic again . I bought a kayak, did a stint on anti-depressants, & thought I had it licked. That's when I began noticing pain in my joints, along with some pretty debilitating fatigue. I was tested for Lyme disease & Lead (heavy metals)poisoning for the joint pain. I had a complete cardiac work-up & a sleep test, etc.. for the fatigue. Everything checked-out OK & I really started feeling like a "head case". That's when my sister (who also has migraines)told me about Fibromyalgia. I found a "specialist" through The Fibromyalgia Network who diagnosed me, then said there was nothing he could do for me since noone knows the cause or cure for the syndrome. Back to feeling disgusted with doctors, I began reading again & for the last two years I've tried every vitamin, herb, treatment regimin, diet, etc.. that I've read about. I also switched from taking a birth control pill every day, to taking estrogen every day because I read that synthetic progestrin can inhibit estrogen's natural pain-reduction properties. Now I'm back to having regular migraines, along with constant joint/muscle pain & fatigue. I'm only able to work 6-7 hours per day so money is a problem (I've literally spent thousands on Doctors/medications over the years & have a MASSIVE credit debt). Stress is a constant & I seem to need a good cry on a weekly basis. I found this webpage tonight because I've been a complete basket-case for the last three days: I've had a migraine EVERY AFTERNOON & evening for two weeks now, and my joint pain & fatigue have been overwhelming for the last three days (more missed work....). I've never had migraines this many days in a row before, and my pain/fatigue has never stayed at this debilitating level for this long, so I decided to cut back on medication this weekend (in case meds overuse is causing a problem) and just stay in bed if necessary (I currently take 100mg Ultram 3x day, 600mg Aleve 2x day, 800mg Skelaxin 2x per day, & 5mg Xanax each night for sleep). I've stopped using Excedrin completely due to rebound, and have relied exclusively on Imitrix (usually 100mm - 150 mg) for migraine. I made it through yesterday with just 100mg of Ultram and 100mg of Imitrix. I made it drug free today until around 8PM when it felt like my migraine might get out of control & send me to the E.R. again (that's so much fun....). Ice packs & neck stretches weren't working so I took 100mg Imitrix. It suddenly occured to me that the Imitrix might be inducing rebound migraines, even though I'd never read or heard anything to that effect. I went straight to the computer, searched, and there it was. It seems to be a well known fact that daily use can induce rebound migraines. That's all it took - I sat on the bathroom floor & started bawling. In the midst of it all, it occured to me that I'd just taken the dose that would have me in the same position tomorrow night. I was so mad that I decided to induce vomiting so I could break the cycle starting tonight. It was incredibly disgusting, but it served the purpose. I ate some yogurt & toast, then took two ultram and am currently gutting-it-out.I doubt I'll sleep tonight & I'm afraid I'll end-up in the E.R. again, but I don't know what else to do. I'm just so tired......... Every single day is a bargaining game: "how bad should I let this get before I take something"; "I took something an hour ago for the migraine, but it doesn't help the joint pain- can I mix drugs?, "when was the last time I missed work - can I get away with taking today off too?"; It's a constant strategy meeting in my head........ Meanwhile, I find myself being mean to my loved ones, and I have no life beyond work & the couch because I'm just too tired & hurt too bad all the time . I alternate between trying new treatments/therapies because I want to feel better, to deciding to just "cope" because it all seems so hopeless. Most days lately I just force myself to get up & go through the motions - bills have to be paid!!! Sometimes I wish I could just fall asleep & never wake up...... I'm not going to "off" myself, but it feels good to be able to say that out-loud. In fact, it's felt great to get all of this out. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR PROVIDING THIS FORUM! I'd appreciate hearing from ANYONE with similar circumstances, or even anyone who wants to talk about this situation we all find ourselves in. Thanks for listening, Carole
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Wellcome..., NikaB, May-25-03, (1) RE: Wellcome..., Carole D, May-25-03, (2) RE: Wellcome..., thetsarisa, May-25-03, (3) RE: Wellcome..., mishkyn, May-25-03, (4) RE: Wellcome..., Carole D, May-25-03, (5) RE: Wellcome..., thetsarisa, May-25-03, (6) RE: Wellcome..., Carole D, May-25-03, (7) RE: Wellcome..., Norma, May-25-03, (8) RE: Wellcome..., Bestest55, May-25-03, (9) RE: Migraine & Fibromyalgia, sheri, May-25-03, (10) RE: Migraine & Fibromyalgia, thetsarisa, May-25-03, (11) RE: Migraine & Fibromyalgia, Teresa (TS), May-26-03, (12) Rebound, Catherine, May-26-03, (13) RE: Rebound, Carole D, May-26-03, (14) RE: Rebound, Catherine, May-26-03, (15) RE: Rebound, Teresa (TS), May-26-03, (16) RE: Rebound, Nosugar, May-26-03, (17) RE: Migraine & Fibromyalgia, cfader, May-27-03, (18) RE: Migraine & Fibromyalgia, GarnetRing, May-29-03, (19)

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NikaB	May-25-03, 03:04 AM (CMT)
1. "Wellcome..."
LAST EDITED ON May-25-03 AT 04:47 AM (CMT) LAST EDITED ON May-25-03 AT 03:04 AM (CMT) Hallo Carole - in the first place I would like to wellcome you to this forum. I am so glad you have found us. You have certanly found a right place to find most usefull information about migraines (which we often call M, here). However, I was not able to read your post beyond firts few senetences as I cannot read big blocks or print. You will probably find that many more of M sufferers here, have the same problem and that is why we usually divide our posts into smaller paragrahps. I am affraid large bloks of print often end up unread, which is a great shame. However if you have written recently, you can still go back to the EDIT button and divide your text, now. It would be extremely helpfull, and you might get much better response. I would love to read rest of your post, but as it is I am unable to. Thank You. NikaB
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	Carole D	May-25-03, 09:18 AM (CMT)
	2. "RE: Wellcome..."
	Thanks Nika, I've tried three times now to reset an edited version, but I can't seem to do it right. It was mostly "verbal diarrhea" that I needed to get out anyway..... Last night was definitely a low point! To paraphrase: I've had migraines for 13yrs, chronic (daily) headaches for 6yrs, and Fibromyalgia for 2yrs. I've seen every specialist, had every test, & taken just about every drug, but nothing has helped me. I'm really just coping now and trying to feel optomistic. My Dr. prescribes all the supportive medication I need, and I've developed a routine that works. It's all just attitude ..... I guess that's why I felt so betrayed last night when I realized that the Imitrix I depend on could turn on me. Noone EVER told me that Imitrix could cause rebound!!!! Now I'm in for a few weeks of hell until my system clears, and I'm already having a really hard time with fatigue & joint pain. I guess I'm afraid I'll hit a point when I can't keep all the balls in the air - then what??? Thanks for being there - it really helps! Carole
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	thetsarisa	May-25-03, 12:34 PM (CMT)
	3. "RE: Wellcome..."
	Dear Carole, welcome to the forum! This site is wonderful, lots of support and info. I really wish I could read your first post, but, as Nika so gracefully explained before is tooo solid a block... What you can do, just try one more time, go to your post, hit EDIT button.. then make every two sentences double spaced.. when you are finished, hit EDIT MESSAGE button.. that should work.. I am sorry you feel betrayed by Imitrex. If you are helped by Imitrex, chances are you will be by Zomig too. Sometimes daily M is caused by something else, not rebound. My daily M were caused by lack of magnesium and after about two weeks of taking this supplement, my dailies stopped, just like that. maybe it would be a good idea to try 200 to 400mg of elemental magnsium daily. A lot of people were succesfull with it. remember, succesful doesn't mean the M stopped, reducing their occurence and severuty is success enough. Hope you will be able to fix your first post yet, Risa
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	mishkyn	May-25-03, 01:57 PM (CMT)
	4. "RE: Wellcome..."
	Dear Carole~~~ Welcome to the forum. And thanks for fixing your post. Reading your story, it initially jumped out at me that 6-10 exedrin/day was causing rebound, then you mentioned you cut it out only to use imitrex daily. I was crushed when I read that. Some drs-and unfortunately drs who publish--believe triptans do not cause rebound. If a treating dr reads that, well...you are the proof. Others here have had triptan rebound as well. Some have even been hospitalized to break that cycle. When headaches come on in the afternoon, they are often caused by rebound. Another cause is the kind of tension headache that is job or posture induced. A dental hygenist I know had severe pain every afternoon until she learned to stop hunching over her patients. I've learned that nearly every type of medication can cause rebound. Certainly daily painkillers of any kind are big culprits. Some of us have had rebound from anti-inflammatories which most drs will declare impossible. Well, impossible for THEM. All of us can relate to your hurting too much to do anything. And many of us, including me, have said, "Nothing works so why see anybody?" I have taken several such breaks. But your headache pattern sounds more solvable than some. You might want to keep a headache journal and keep close track of your med use, foods, caffeine use, weather. See if you can identify anything that could be contributing to your pain, or perhaps even causing it. I wish you much luck. Keep posting and reading and keep us all informed about how you are doing. Mishkyn
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	Carole D	May-25-03, 02:01 PM (CMT)
	5. "RE: Wellcome..."
	Hi Risa - I DID IT. Your instructions worked like a charm & now I hope it's all readable. I don't know how thrilled I am to see all of my whining spewed-out again for all to see, though. I'm feeling a little better today & back in "coping" mode. This discussion forum is fantastic! I don't trust people easily & avoid getting close, so I really have noone to talk to. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR LISTENING & FOR YOUR HELP!! I'm not usually much of a whiner, but I seem to burst into tears at the drop of a hat lately. I think I'm just exhausted......... I recieved an email regarding Hypoglycemia that I'm going to follow-up on. I actually spent 6 weeks on an "insulin resistance" diet last fall, but didn't notice any changes. I zipped to "BORDERS" just now & picked-up the recommended book (Edward Krimmel's Blood Sugar Handbook), and I see from a quick glance that there are a LOT of nuances I missed in my first trial. I've ALWAYS thought that food played a part in my problems. My headaches ALWAYS get worse after I eat, and I have more severe joint/muscle pain in the morning if I eat high fat/protein late at night. Other than one terrible red wine migraine, I've never identified any "triggers". Once the chronic daily headaches began everything seemed to melt into just feeling horrible ALL THE TIME. Some times are just worse than others. I can feel myself getting "revved-up" about this potential "cure". I have to stop & remember to breathe. SO MANY times in the past I JUST KNEW that I'd found the "magic bullet", only to end disappointed & angry. Like the dentist who swore that his dental stint would solve my migraine problem, so I paid him $1500.00 for a piece of plastic the size of a dime. I think I'm still paying that off.... Or the medication that would magically alleviate all of my joint pain - I just had to buy it, then pay to replace EVERYTHING in my house that might counteract it's effectiveness. Two months & hundreds of dollars later I felt the same.... Thanks again for this forum - I feel like I've found some kind of magic portal......... Carole
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	thetsarisa	May-25-03, 02:15 PM (CMT)
	6. "RE: Wellcome..."
	Hey Carole, I went thru almost the same thing as you - the frustration, the panic, the despair of having M.. I feel so sorry for you. Yes living with M is so horrible that I too many times wished I could just die, I would never off myself either but I used to think that this is not the life. This is nightmare. Don't panic, please. M can be managed. True, there are some poor souls here who weren't helped much by anything, but majority of us found things that work for us. First thing that comes to mind - take a big deep breath, don't panic. Finding a good dr is very hard, it takes sometimes a long time to find the right one, so do not loose hope you'll meet one someday. Just keep looking. And then as I've said before if you were helped my Imitrex, you might be helped by Zomig. Some people say that alternating triptans reduce rebounds. Now, I am one of a very few people who doesn't belive in rebounds 100%. I was able to break daily M by taking antibiotics ( for my sinus) and magnesium supplement. Obviously there weren't rebounds or magnsium can help with rebounds. Magnesium sounds so insignificant, but turns out to have a BIG impact on our M. Try to take at least 200 mg of elemental magnsium everyday, I have Jamieson Natural Sources but there is some better slow release magnsium - I can't remember the link - but you may search archives for my post "DO you take magnesium.." it is in there. If you suffer from anemia and take Iron supplements chances are you REALLY have low magnsium - b/c iron depletes mgsium from our bodies. You didn't mentioned anything about your triggers - I assume you were told about food triggers, light, smell and audio triggers? Anti seizure drugs like Topamax and Neurontin, are used for M prevention, so I think the dr wasn't that bad, just didn't listen to you very well. Hormones are absolutely M triggers. I don't know what can you do about this, I was helped by taking Naproxen a week before, then during, then a day after my period, but not everyone was as succesfull. Most women are way worse on BC pills, so please be careful. That's about all I can think of at the moment.. I am sure that once you read some old posts, search the archives you will find a lot of useful info. Please stay with us. there is also pretty active miscellaneous forum where we take a break from pain and problems and simply gossip.. Come on over.. Risa
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	Carole D	May-25-03, 03:26 PM (CMT)
	7. "RE: Wellcome..."
	Hi Risa Wow, I just can't seem to get enough of this! I hope I'm not babbling too much. It's just so nice to not feel alone..... Regarding Magnesium- I take a really good daily multiple (LIFE ESSENCE by PURE LABS) that delivers 400mgs magnesium (as oxide & malate) each day. I also take a calcium supplement (I'm 43) that delivers 150mg magnesium (as oxide,citrate,fumarate, malate, & ascorbate) per day (when I remember to take all four tabs). Does that sound like what you had in mind? There are so many different types out there. I'm hooked-up with a wholesaler who sells most of the best products so please let me know. I tried taking more Magnesium Malate once I developed Fibromyalgia because MANY different books suggested it. Unfortunately, it caused immediate & constant diarrhea in my case. I hung in there for 3 weeks & continued at the recommended dosage, but I didn't notice any difference in overall pain. Boy, was I glad to stop taking that!!! It's been a long time since I've studied diet / supplements in regards to migraine because I did all that years ago & finally gave-up & resorted to drugs. My multiple vitamin is high in B's & C, and it's taken twice daily so I get plenty of those stress reducers. I also keep a supply of "HIGH STRESS B & C" by SOURCE NATURALS on hand for the times I'm feeling really shaky. Vitamin B complex & C are stored in the brain for "fight or flight" scenarios and they're water soluble (excreted in your urine) so I try to always be "stocked-up". I seem to always be anxious / nervous most of the time - my adrenal glands must be shot! Is that common among Migrainers? Feverfew is an herb that I tried but had no success with. A LOT of people told me they found it beneficial though. I KNOW that I was in rebound from a combination of Vicodin & Excedrin for at least two years. I take only Ultram & Aleve (naproxen) on a daily basis now & that's for the body aches & pain. The headache specialist SWORE TO ME that those two drugs WOULD NOT CAUSE REBOUND so, please let me know if anyone knows different. I asked my DR. for the Ultram, as well as a nightly muscle relaxer (Skelaxin) and an anti-anxiety med(Xanax) when Fibromyalgia pain was making it virtually impossible for me to work. It was like night & day once I started getting a decent night's sleep & was able to keep the joint & muscle pain down to a dull roar. The unfortunate thing is that none of those medications are helpful with the headaches & migraines. I've been managing my daily headaches for the last three months (since giving-up Excedrin) by simply dealing with the pain, or by using caffeine. I use Aspirin on a limited basis (no more than 2x per week) if absolutely necessary. I've been managing the migraines exclusively with Imitrix. I get 36 tabs (50mg) each month. Two months ago I actually had 10 pills left at the end of the month. The last two months I've been afraid of running out. That's where the daily (afternoon onset) migraines come in. I've NEVER had daily migraines before!!! They've always been hormonally triggered (Estrogen fluctuations), or related to a daily headache that got out of control. That's why I felt so betrayed by discovering Imitrix rebound. I work so hard to do everything right, then one of the things I thought was right ends-up being a problem! Sometimes I consider taking Vicodin again just so I can have a day off, but there's no way I'm jumping on that roller coaster again! Now I just have to figure out how to get through the next few weeks without taking any Imitrix, Excedrin, or caffeine (no caffeine allowed in the Hypoglycemia diet). Thanks again everyone - I can't believe how helpful it is to have someone to talk to. Carole
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	Norma	May-25-03, 03:54 PM (CMT)
	8. "RE: Wellcome..."
	Hi Carole--Welcome. Some of your "stuff" sounds so much like me I could almost cry hearing it from another person. As if it weren't bad enough to develop "analgesic overuse headaches" from OTC's like Excedrin, which I did, I was eventually given Vicodin, fiorinal, and other such things that compounded the problem. Later Imitrex did the same, when in it's early years. At first it was believed that the triptans wouldn't have that effect because they are not analgesics. It is not hopeless! It actually helped me to go through the agony of cutting back to only using abortive pain relievers a maximum of 3 days a week. The strictest standards for avoiding the "analgesic overuse" syndrome call for 2 days a week max, but I have found that I do OK at 3. At that level the meds I do take work better for me. I had to switch from imitrex to Maxalt, and eventually to Frova. Frova works more slowly, (and lasts longer), which seems to be a plus in not causing a rebound effects so easily. No preventive med ever did me much good, though some docs now would say that it was because of my concurrent heavy analgesic use. Many studies seem to show that preventives won't do a thing if daily abortives are used. I am getting Botox treatments now at a reputable clinic, after have "failed" a trial with them a few years ago. I am doing the best I have in many years, and the botox is actually helping me in spit of the fact that I still use my Frova pretty often, and use ketoprofen as well. The fibromyalgia is a tough thing--antidepressants may help, and sometimes neurontin helps. I've never been diagnosed with it, but I have some of the symptoms--maybe a mild case--and have gotten some improvement of the aching with fish oil capsules daily and 400mg of SAMe daily. I don't know how scientific it is, but they both have stuff that mitigates against inflammation. Oh, yeah, there ae alot of things that can cause migraine to "tranform" into a daily headache problem Analgesic overuse is one, hormonal events and brain injuries can do it as well. But as best I can tell, once you are "there," it doesn't really matter how you got there, the problems and treatments are pretty similar. Glad you found us, and are enjoying the interaction. Norma
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	Bestest55	May-25-03, 09:59 PM (CMT)
	9. "RE: Wellcome..."
	Carole, I am also rather new to this forum but I have found so much information here that I feel as if I have finally found a light in the darkness. I have had my M's for about 40 years now and have dealt with them as best as any of us can. About 4 years ago, I contracted a case of viral meningitis that has caused the Monsters to really get bad! I finally found a really great neuro that I really have total faith in. He just had me in the hospital for an IV Steroid treatment and the jury is still out on how that will turn out. But one thing he has done in the past week or so is to introduce me to a drug called Bextra. Bextra is mainly for arthritis. It's in the same family as Vioxx and Celebrex. BUT... so far... IT HELPS ME with the M's too! I've been going through a really rough 3 month cycle here and still haven't had a totally pain free day in over 3 months but the Bextra has made such a difference! I almost feel human again. You may want to talk to your doc about it and see what he/she says about it. My step-mom is an OR nurse and she told me that they have found that Bextra is also proving to be really good for post surgical pain as well. And the best part of it is.... it is NOT a narcotic. I was just thinking, if it helps with M's and you have the pains with your joints and all it just might help you with that as well. I know we all want to grasp at straws sometimes but who knows? Maybe that one time it won't just be a straw but a golden ring.... Good luck. Wishing us ALL pain free days! Lori
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sheri	May-25-03, 10:25 PM (CMT)
10. "RE: Migraine & Fibromyalgia"
Hi Carole, I am sorry your headaches brought you here, but your home now. This place is a wealth of information, knowledgable advice, support, caring people who will listen. When you have time I suggest you look at the topics and read. I know that is a tall order, but wow, what I have learned and been taught. I am on oxycontin, zomig (imitrex made my heart race), concerta (to stay awake) lexapro (for depression), ditropan (for bladder spasms), steroid pack for the swelling in my joints. I had tested postive for lupus 2 years ago, but the Dr's are not sure if I have lupus or rheumtoid arthritis. I had to go back this past week because my joints got to the point I couldn't walk down the stairs in the morning. He ran more blood work and x-rays. He also suggested that I join a study to get my medicine free. I am being fired at the end of the month from where I work because of being disabled and Met Life not approving me. Long story. I also have carpal tunnel in both hands. I too lived in NJ (Deptford) for 2 1/2 years and 1/2 year in Marlton. For me though I was never sick. My sinus's were better there even through the pig farms, oil refineries, city smells and dump sites. Sea air maybe? Then I moved to VA and got sick again. I have been through the mill lately, but if you have a question, please write and I will try and respond. I have a mound of paperwork waiting for me, but I will write. Thanks for making your paragraphs short. Easy to read that way. PLease take care and I am glad you found this site. Sheri
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	thetsarisa	May-25-03, 10:50 PM (CMT)
	11. "RE: Migraine & Fibromyalgia"
	Hi Carole, here's the link to a very good magnesium site http://www.headachepainfree.com/magnesium.htm you should take up to 400 mg of ELEMENTAL magnsium, but please don't ask me how to calculate from regular mg, it's beyond me, lol.. yep diarhhea is a problem that's why there is some slow mag , it's better.. And of course calcium, I see you are pretty much oriented in this vit/mineral hulabaloo too. You 43? I'm 46.. Don't fret too much about what and when you should take. I think until you will find good neuro who specialises in M and will think of some good program for you, think what help you best for you M pain and try to alternate.. I used to take up to 30-40 Zomig tablets a month last summer until magnsium stopped my daily pain.. I am sorry it didn't work so well for you. nevertheless, keep taking it. Anxiety - I think I am anxious sometimes before M attack, but mostly depression is what precede my M. Anxiety, nervousness, might very well be a side effects from meds, and/or withdrawal symptom. Muscle and bone pain might too be a withdrawal symptom. I am so sorry you are so upset, but please step by step you will find the right management for your M and other problems.. Just be patient and keep in touch.. Risa
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	Teresa (TS)	May-26-03, 00:48 AM (CMT)
	12. "RE: Migraine & Fibromyalgia"
	Hi Carole, Don't want to give you false hopes, but I suffered from migraines and daily headaches all of my life. I'm 41 now. I started having severe daily migraines and I started having a sort of seziure with them. That's when I found this forum. I was searching for answers and what I could do to make myself healthier. Since I started posting here, I read about hypoglycemia from Steve B. If you have a chance you should search his posts! I was diagnosed with it about 20 years ago, but ignored it to take the path of eating disorders. Anyway, reading what Steve had to say, reminded me so much of myself, and I was desperatly seeking something to make me better. I decided to listen to what he had to say and at least give it a try. I was very skeptical, though! I'm very happy to tell you, it has helped me greatly! I don't have the daily headaches now, I do get an occasional headache, but it isn't daily. I do still get a migraine now and then, but they are fewer and MUCH less severe. I also read the Krimmel book. It is a good one, but a litte slow in the beginning. If you are interested, I could tell you a couple of other books that may help you. I hope you will at least give it a serious try and hopefully you will see some results. I think I notcied my dailys were better within a couple of weeks. I'm very interested in how you do with it. If you would care to email me, I would love it. My address is s_tsommers@yahoo.com No pressure, I just hope you get the same results that I and a few others here were able to find! Take Care Teresa
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Catherine	May-26-03, 09:30 AM (CMT)
13. "Rebound"
Hi Carole, I have lived with migraine for approx 26yrs. I have gone through rebound from aleve, amerge (like imitrex), etc. I also have fibromyalgia. Firstly... you are most certainly dealing with rebound from some or all of your meds. Over the counter meds such as aleve are to be taken only a few times/wk. Triptans, such as imitrex seem to be similar, only a few times/wk. So, now, how to get out of this rebound and not want to shot yourself in the head doing it? Go to a dr. and/or neurologist. - You need to start daily meds for fibro ie. amitriptaline, or soma. This will help improve you feeling wiped out. I will also help with all the aches. - you need to also start daily meds for migraine. If you suffer more than a few mingraine/month, then a daily "preventative" med is required. There is a wide array of them, but a neuro can start you on one... keep in mind that each has some side effects and you will need to decide which side effects you are willing to accept, cuz you probably will have to live with some in the trade off. Also most preventatives take approx 6 weeks to start helping. It will take a few months to find a good combe and settle into the new meds, but once they begin helping, you will need less and less meds. When you are requiring less meds for the pain, begin alternating them so that you do not often take one "type" more than one or two days in a row, and not more than 3 times/wk. Once you settle into this, your quality of life will probably be pretty good. But you need to accept taking meds daily for most of the rest of your life. Hope this helps Catherine
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	Carole D	May-26-03, 11:27 AM (CMT)
	14. "RE: Rebound"
	Hi Catherine, Thanks for the info! I guess I shouldn't be surprised about the rebound potential of Aleve - The Migraine specialist (Dr. Silberstein of Jefferson Headache Clinic in Philadelphia) who told me POINT BLANK that Naproxen (Aleve) was the ONLY med he could give me for pain because IT WOULD NOT CAUSE REBOUND, is the same nationally renowned speaker who advocates a connection between estrogen & migraine, but who, when I went to him for help, totally ignored my 3 month headache/period diary, to put me instead on Depakote. It seems that he was doing a study & I was simply another lab rat.... It's amazing how bitter I still feel about that whole experience! I became virtually migraine free for two years once I gave-up on him & asked an OBGYN to prescribe a CONSTANT COURSE of low dose birth control pills!! I'll stop the Aleve as of today. I'm going to have to continue the Ultram until I can find some other way of either preventing or dealing with the body pain from Fibromyalgia, otherwise, I can't work. I used Excedrin yesterday to get through my first day completely off of Imitrix. I've decided to get through today without taking anything, but I'll be back on the Ultram tomorrow (for work) along with whatever's necessary to deal with my head. I've already tried most of the preventatives you mentioned. Tricyclic anti-depressants (amitriptylene, nortriptylene),Calcium Channel Blockers, Beta Blockers, SSI anti-depressants (zomeg, prozac,etc), Steroidal sinus sprays, Anti-seizure meds (depakote) - I really can't remember them all.... It might be time to revisit some of them, though. I know, in hindsight, that I was probably in rebound during that whole period from Vicodin/Excedrin, so nothing had a real chance. I've been hearing good things about Topomax. I've avoided checking it out until now because it's so similar to Depakote(which didn't help me before). Also, I've heard that there could be serious implications for the liver & you have to be closely monitored. Anyone have any insight? I think I'll have to stick with Ultram for the body pain for now (although I will switch from regularly scheduled dosing to "as needed). I had HORRIBLE SIDE EFFECTS (including insomnia - I reacted atypically) on Amitriptylene AND Nortryptylene, even though they're the most benign in their class. I'm just not willing to get back on the narcotic rollercoaster with Soma so that's out. Thanks so much for the "head's-up" about Aleve. This whole experience with Imitrix has been a wake-up call for me. The action plan right now is to begin the Hypoglycemia diet advocated by Steve B., cut WAY BACK on the use of ANY medication, and schedule a DR. appointment to discuss Topamax (or another preventative if anyone knows of a better one). My Dr. has suggested SSI anti-depressants to lift my spirits, but I can't take them with Ultram (high potential for seizure from interaction). I guess I could switch to the SSI's & hope they help with the body pain (after the 4-6 week initiation), but I'm just too afraid..... I have to be able to work or my whole house of cards will come tumbling down. It's just me here - no family - so I have no safety-net. Once again, I've babbled-on WAY TOO MUCH. Please just know that I really appreciate ALL of your suggestions & I don't feel so alone anymore. Carole
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	Catherine	May-26-03, 02:08 PM (CMT)
	15. "RE: Rebound"
	LAST EDITED ON May-26-03 AT 02:12 PM (CMT) Carole, My naproxen rebound had me taking 500-1000mg /day and still getting almost daily migraines! Now I am into amerge rebound... I take 1/2 to 1 amerge at bedtime so I don't awaken mid-night with a migraine, and that is working wonderfully, but now the amerge does very little to stop one, so I'm on the T#3 and Naprexen 500mg merry go ride. Neurontin is proving to be a good option for fibro pain and migraine preventative. It has some bad side effects, but if you don't get the usual side effects, it may be a good option. I don't think any of the ssri's are any good for the fibro pain, so switching would probably make matters worse. I'd say go back to the dr, start the gammut of preventatives, and say the course... alternate the abortive meds you have... and take them AS SOON as you know you're getting a migraine. The hypoglycemic diet works faily well for many and did for me, but is so difficult to stay on for more than a couple of months, so good luck. Catherine
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	Teresa (TS)	May-26-03, 04:18 PM (CMT)
	16. "RE: Rebound"
	I've been on the hypoglycemic "diet" for 7 months now and it isn't hard at all. In fact, it becomes easier the longer you are on it. It just becomes second nature. You don't even think about what you should or shouldn't have, you just get used to not having the "enemy"! It shouldn't be looked at as a diet, but as a change in your diet for health. I rarly think about any foods that would be considered cheating. Being without the migraines or daily headaches as well as some other symptoms, it is well worth the change in diet. I would much rather learn to eat differently than to put more drugs into my body. I hope you find some relief with the change in your diet, as well! Teresa
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	Nosugar	May-26-03, 10:01 PM (CMT)
	17. "RE: Rebound"
	Hi everybody, Teresa, I agree with you a 100%. I've been on this diet for 15 years now. It seems to me that this is the ONLY way of eating... which indicates that I do not feel I'm missing something. I also managed to stay migraine free for the past 9 years. Of course, I 'll get headaches once in a while but nothing that won't go away with 2 tylenols. I got my life back. Carole, Hang on. You won't regret it. Wishing you all sweet dreams!
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cfader	May-27-03, 01:54 PM (CMT)
18. "RE: Migraine & Fibromyalgia"
Hi Carole, Your story sounds so familiar. My 19 year old son has chronic migraines, I have menstural migraines and my 16 year old daughter has Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, Thyroid Disease, and recently developed a gluten intolerance. We are all affected by weather fronts, and I wonder if moving to NJ has caused your headaches to come back. I would like to move to Hawaii to see if our lives would be better and pain-free. You might want to go on a gluten free diet for 2 weeks to see if it would help (can't hurt). People with Fibromyalgia or a Thyroid problem can develop a gluten intolerance and also become latose intolerant. My daughter just developed the gluten intolerance and may also be latose intolerant. We are currently being tested for gluten intolerance or Celiac Disease with a blood test. If it comes back positive, then me and my children will have to live a gluten free life! My son knows when a low front is on it's way about 1 to 2 days before it gets here. We live in the South and the weather kills him. He is only well and functioning in the summer months. My daughter knows by her aches and pains when a front is coming as well. Her whole body become limp and numb and she unable to get out of bed. My daugher is doing better since she has become gluten free. It was a hard adjustment, but it will not be too hard to totally change over for me and my son as well. Flour is found in everything. You have to stick to fresh meats, fresh vegetables and fresh fruit. You can lose a good bit of weight on a lifestyle of this diet too. My daughter takes 1200mg of Guaifenesin (600mg of the morning/600mg night) which is very good for Fibromyalgia. She is also on Celexa which helps with the depression associated with her diseases. There is a book called "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibromylagia" by Paul Amand and Claudia Marek, that is a really good book to read. As far as your migraines, you may need to go to headache clinic or look at the possibility of the cause being from the fibromylagia or the move and the weather changes. Hope this helps. Conita
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GarnetRing	May-29-03, 03:07 PM (CMT)
19. "RE: Migraine & Fibromyalgia"
Hi Carole! I've been taking Topamax along with Inderal for several weeks now and I seem to be having some success with it. My doctor said that the secret to taking it is to start out slowly and gradually increase the dosage. My M's are getting less severe and seem to be getting less frequest. I have been taking Paxil for years so I was already on that when I started these other preventatives. I took Depakote for a year and a half and then it stopped working, but it seems like the Topamax is going to be a big help. Hang in there and don't give up on trying to find a preventative that will work for you. God bless! Becky
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