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In search of a new doctor

ChronicMigraine2713

Hi,
I've been having migraines for 14 years due to a concussion. I saw that there was an article on how find a good neurologist. I've been with my neurologist since I was 14 and it's time for a new one. My question is: should I get a new neurologist or get a concussion specialist? I've been at a crossroads about it for weeks. Traditionally, I know that people with migraines have a neurologist but with me having chronic daily migraines due to a concussion might require a specialist. Any advice would be appreciated.

Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
This is a great question. Ultimately, it would be ideal if you could find a migraine specialist who has experience in concussion or even TBI. I know they exist as I see one in NC. It may take you a bit to find this cross subspeciality but it would likely be worth it to ensure your treatment is as effective as possible. That said, many people with migraine have their condition due to concussion- so my guess is that a migraine specialist (vs. a neurologist) would be a good place to start. These are doctors specifically trained in migraine (and therefore, I assume - are trained in concussion-based migraine). TBI is another specialty and as I said, there are those migraine specialists out there with that extra training. So, yes, I'd recommend you start by looking for a migraine specialist. When you call or research the practice- ask if they are knowledgeable about concussion specifically. Hope this helps. Warmly- Holly -migraine.com team.
1. ChronicMigraine2713 Member
  thank you the advice Holly. I'll use this info for my search
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
  Here are a few links that may help you find a migraine specialist: https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/find-a-doctor/. And: https://headaches.org/resources/healthcare-provider-finder/
  Let us know if we can help in any other way. Thinking of you- Holly (migraine.com team).
dopamine Member
Intellect and kindness
1. Tonya Henry Moderator & Contributor
  Thank you for commenting. I tend to agree with you on this. Finding a doctor who is knowledgeable and compassionate, would be ideal for me. I wanted to share this article that I wrote about the relationship between me and my provider. https://migraine.com/living-migraine/my-doctor-patient-relationship. Do you have one that understands you and your needs? Hope you are doing well today. (Tonya, team member).
Boushly Member
Kindness and total understanding.
1. Tracy Hannigan, MOstMed, ACE-HC Moderator
  Oh I wish this for everyone ! The world can do with a bit more of this in general, and it would be so fantastic if we could find this in everyone around us when we are coping. Warmly, Tracy (Team Member)
Countrycitygirl Member
Someone who doesn't judge me for researching different treatments!
1. Cody Leach Community Admin
  Such a great point, . I think there's a misconception that if you ask about drugs by name (or even a specific type of drug), that we are "drug seeking", which is just so untrue. Being informed and curious are invaluable tools we can bring to our own treatment. Have you had a similar experience? - Cody (Team Member)