chronic small vessel ischemic disease
I have had migraines for over 35 years and my MRI I just had says I have chronic small vessel ischemic disease that is worse than the last MRI, which was in 2020. The doctor says it is mild and not to worry about it. What I have read about it is if it is not treated, you could die. I have my heartbeat in my head 24/7 and when I try to do anything that gets my heart pumping, like cooking, my head goes also. Then I am into a full-blown migraine. I have static migraines which is every day and hemiplegic which is a TIA stroke that my left side of my face and arm and body goes completely numb. That has happened 3 times. And my doctor thinks, don't worry about anything. I have 7 lesions across the front of my brain. When I see him, he says he doesn't know what to do anymore. Just gave me a new drug and it made me sleep all day. I went off that. I am looking for a new doctor. Am I missing something with these migraines that I don't know about? Any help is appreciated. Thanks.
thanks for taking the time to share your experience. Although, I'm certainly sorry to hear that you're having such a challenging time with getting clarity from your doctor about your condition and MRI results. It's an incredibly challenging place to be in - physically, mentally and emotionally.
Getting a second opinion can be really helpful in situations like these.
We have community members here who have gone to different specialists too. For example, they may go to a headache specialist, a neurologist and/or a pain management doctor.
Each doctor may have a slightly different perspective on your MRI and may perform a slightly different in-person evaluation on you. So, it sounds like that's a great next step for you.
Perhaps considering one of these specialists could help in your search.
Keep us posted on how it goes for you! We're hoping that you get some answers, relief and confidence in your health soon.
Best
Alene, Migraine.com Team MemberThank you so much for your advice. I have started to look for another neurologist to get a second opinion and, I am going to see another Cardiologist. I will let you know what changes. Thanks again. 
Please do keep us looped in and know we are thinking of you as you seek these important answers. We are here for you. Warmly - Holly - migraine.com team
