My Chronic Migraine and Comorbidities

By Amanda Workman

2 min read

There have been many comorbid conditions tied to chronic migraine over the years. Most individuals I have encountered through work with various chronic migraine organizations have suffered from additional ailments. In my life alone, I have dealt with multiple health conditions that throughout research seem to be linked to one another. Personally, I deal with chronic migraine, endometriosis, and fibromyalgia. I still find it astonishing that so many health issues can be connected this way.

My migraine went from episodic to chronic

My migraines went from being episodic to chronic in 2009. Of course, nobody understood the change. Everybody assumed my migraine frequency changed due to the stress of being in my last semester of university. Unfortunately, after I finished my studies, my chronic migraines persisted and even became worse.

I had to adjust to life with daily attacks

My migraines eventually increased to a daily frequency and became extremely intense. In order to try to manage the chronic migraines, I have sought out numerous doctors. These doctors have used a variety of treatments ranging from medications, physical therapy, to Botox injections. While my migraines are not as overwhelming bad on a daily basis as they have been in the past, they definitely still have a major impact on my life. After 11 years of dealing with chronic migraines, I have adjusted my life to somewhat accommodate living with these migraines.

My experience with endometriosis

Endometriosis was honestly my first health issue. I started having complications with my female health extremely young. I started seeking treatment for endometriosis at 14 years old. When I was finally officially diagnosed, I already had Stage 4 endometriosis. Stage 4 endometriosis is the most severe stage of the disease. A study of the comorbid association between endometriosis and migraines showed that “Women with endometriosis had 1.7 times the risk of having migraines compared to women without endometriosis.”¹ As a teenager, I did suffer from episodic migraines, predominately while under extreme stress.

My experience with fibromyalgia

I honestly can not even say when my fibromyalgia symptoms started. I was so dead set on not having another medication condition that I tried my best to ignore the additional pain. One of my best friends likely spent a year convincing me that I needed to see a rheumatologist. I was diagnosed in 2013 with fibromyalgia. Despite some doctors' best attempts, my fibromyalgia is still not under control. I have probably tried every medication used as a preventative and anti-inflammatory for fibromyalgia treatment without success. One 2017 study showed that not only is fibromyalgia very common in individuals with chronic migraine-type headaches, but the symptoms can be significantly worse.²

The pain of my chronic conditions

All of these conditions do have one thing in common, aside from having the potential to be linked to one another. None of these conditions have a cure. While some people are lucky enough to find something to help lessen the symptoms, these conditions will never fully go away. I know from personal experience that not everybody will understand the immense amount of pain that accompanies one of these conditions, much less more than one of them.

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kelscho Member
I can totally relate to your issues with Chronic Migraine. I literally had a headache for 20 years and although the pain on most days was not classic migraine level, living everyday in pain was debilitating and most doctors did not understand. I tried EVERYTHING!! Nothing seemed to work, I have had some relief with things like a mixture of Cymbalta and Topamax as well as narcotics for really bad days. My other health issues also did not help. I have heart issues causing me to be on blood thinners so my options became more limited. Probably the worst part is the frustration trying to explain my condition to family and friends. Most don't understand regular migraines, let alone Chronic Migraine. So thanks for posting, at least I know I'm not alone. Neither are you...
1. Amanda Workman Moderator & Contributor
 I am so glad that my article helped you realize that you are not alone. You are correct that it is hard to get people to understand migraine and even worse chronic migraine. I really wish I had a better method for getting people in your life to understand what you are dealing with everyday. I hope you keep your head up and stay strong. Amanda (migraine.com team)
Ann Margaret Member
I have suffered from migraines since I was 12 years old and they were called hormonal at that time. When I got older I also developed endometriosis, fibromyalgia and hashimotos and all are comorbidities for migraine. There is no cure nor help for any of them except the usual practice of throwing everything but the kitchen sink at them. I understand the immense amount of pain that you are undergoing and I share it.
1. Amanda Workman Moderator & Contributor
 I am so sorry you are having to deal with all of these health issues. My hormones were also hormonal and stress based, until my migraines became chronic. I know it can be challenging to deal with endometriosis and fibro. I hope you are keeping your head up and staying positive. Sending you lots of positive energy Amanda (migraine.com team)
jojiieme Member
I’ve recently found out that my many non-IgE sensitivities and allergies are a pseudo-mastocytosis condition, in which my immune system goes into overdrive and produces too many MAST cells and glial cells... strangely enough, frequent migraines are known to accompany this condition. 😉 If only we’d had the tech to understand this years ago! My allergy Prof has me on a daily regime of specific histamine blockers, and works together with my neurologist to control the remainder of my symptoms. Compared with 12 months ago, I’d say I still experience the migraines but not as fiercely; maybe 2/3 stop my day. Worth checking out - persist with the tests.
1. Amanda Workman Moderator & Contributor
 It is great that you have figured out a health issue that may be linked to your migraines. Hopefully as you continue to treat your new condition. Amanda (migraine.com team)
lisa-jo Member
I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia before my migraines became chronic. I have noticed that physical or emotional trauma makes both worse.
rlb59 Member
I can relate real well with you. I have intractable daily migraines, RA, and everyone of RA's there is. Fibromyalgia, degenerative bone disease, macular degeneration, I lost sight with a bolt of a migraine that went thru my head and thru my eye. No more driving. I love to read and I have to quit reading because of severe pain. Out of all this now I have a new Neurologist that also specialist with migraines. And a new Pulmonologist. And all kinds of tests. I do hope they find that I have a brain lol. I have been living in my cave because I couldn't stand any triggers to the point of not being able to hold any food or liquid. Even lost some weight. This has been going on for roughly 4 months this bad. But I'm thankful that I have 2 new Dr's tho. And I received 2 new meds for my migraines. Aimovig and Ubrevly. Aimovig I love, it stops them right off. And life is some what better than it was. I'm looking forward to seeing the sun shine bounce off of things and to feel it. It's been a long time to be able to see the light in my house. God Bless everyone and wishing all a better day or even a few hours
1. CommunityMember457d98 Member
 I'm wishing better days ahead for you. Most of my family really do not understand why you have to lay down and can't function with a migraine. I too am on Ubrevly and praying one day there is a cure💟
2. Melissa Arnold Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember457d98" user-id="6715382"/> Ugh, it's so hard when the people closest to you don't understand. But migraine really is debilitating. Have you ever shared an article or video about migraine symptoms with them? This site is full of people dealing with the same things you are ... let us know if we can pull something that might be helpful. Another strategy that helps some is bringing your loved one to the doctor with you, so that your doctor can more thoroughly explain your symptoms and answer questions. It can take a lot of education to finally understand! We're here for you. Hugs. -Melissa, <a href='http://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
sarahblankenship Member
I understand where you are coming from! I have chronic daily migraine and fibromyalgia. I had to stop working 2 years ago, left a job I truly loved, and became pretty much homebound most days. I don't have insurance anymore, but have never found any effective treatment so I just suffer along. It's nice to know I'm not alone, although I hate the idea of anyone else in this kind of pain.
hitesh-goenka Member
<inline-mention username="Amanda Workman" user-id="3715820"/> I see that I have all the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Now, I wonder if I have migraines or fibromyalgia...I am so confused!!!
1. Melissa Arnold Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="hitesh-goenka" user-id="3755282"/> This is a good, official resource on fibromyalgia. In the past it has been difficult to get a diagnosis (just like migraine) but it is getting better in some areas. <a href='https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Fibromyalgia' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Fibromyalgia</a> Hope that helps! -Melissa, <a href='http://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
2. hitesh-goenka Member
 <inline-mention username="Melissa.Arnold" user-id="3827796"/> Thanks a ton for this resource. Yeah, this is me. Now, I know where this overactive bladder comes into the picture and my elders and peers want me to fix it since I was born. There is no medical issue with my urinary system as told to me by several urologists. My mom also has an overactive bladder. Along with few other fibromyalgia symptoms and several migraine symptoms. I wonder if she gifted me two neuro illnesses. Thanks, mom!
AML1 Member
I’ve had migraines for 30 yrs, since I was 12. Started as episodic hormonal migraines that progressively got worse as I aged & transformed into chronic daily refractory migraines that are unresponsive to treatment/ medications. I have Raynaud’s disease that I’ve been dealing with since I was 10 yrs old & I’ve been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome…but I really think I’m just exhausted from constantly battling pain & migraines. I’ve had one amazing neurologist & about 25 worthless ones & one amazing general practitioner. They’ve both retired & I’ve been struggling for years to find new Dr’s who actually listen, understand & help. I’m on disability & Medicare so that limits my options. It’s difficult for people to understand these “invisible” conditions if they have no experience with them. A lot just don’t believe they’re real or they think I’m exaggerating my pain & symptoms. It’s frustrating & hurtful. 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="AML1" user-id="4699787"/> Oh that's such a challenge to be between migraine specialists. It's a nightmare when a good specialist retires. That has happened to me as well. As you know, it's a rarity to find one with whom we share a truly healthy partnership and with whom we feel respected and heard. This site should be able to help you find a migraine specialist in your area: <a href='https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/find-a-doctor/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/find-a-doctor/</a>. I'm also on disability/medicare so understand the limitations. Hopefully, you can gather a list and then go to a medicare specialist to find who is covered (you've probably already done this). You're right that it is frustrating and hurtful. You are not alone in this. Please know we are here for you to provide support, information, and guidance anytime. I know of the exhaustion you speak. Chronic migraine is like living with a leak in our body's energy tub. This piece may resonate with you: <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/chronic-bodys-slow-leak' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/chronic-bodys-slow-leak</a>. Stay in touch. Thinking of you- Holly (migraine.com team).
ilovtheend Member
It's so helpful to see other people chiming in with their comorbid illnesses. I deal with status migrainosus, endometriosis and IBS. I had a hysterectomy 8 weeks ago, which is how they diagnosed the endometriosis (along with adenomyosis, fibroids, and a ruptured fallopian tube.) One of the hardest things to explain to people are how constant and consuming each of these disorders are. I don't know what each day will bring for me and can manage myself somewhat as long as there aren't external pressures expecting me to feel better than I do. Others don't understand why I can't work from home or in some other more relaxed fashion...I consider it a great day if I can shower, feed myself, and go for a long walk! Like most of us, this would all be much easier if I had some source of disability income. We just keep chugging along! 
1. Cheryl Picerno Moderator
 <inline-mention username="ilovtheend" user-id="4705365"/> Let me first say welcome to the <a href='http://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> community! We are glad you found us. This is a safe place where people share their experiences and gather information about how to help manage migraine disease and the comorbid conditions that many of us also have in addition to migraine. I hope you are healing well and starting to feel better since your surgery. I know having a surgical procedure on top of our conditions can really make things more challenging. It can be exhausting trying to explain to a non-sufferer just how debilitating and impactful our condition(s) are, especially if they are invisible illnesses. You have a lot to manage, so just take it slowly and let your body tell you what it will tolerate. Remember to celebrate those good days and just be kind to yourself. It sounds simple, but many times it is not. Have you applied for disability assistance either through your work or from Social Security? There may even be local programs you could investigate to see if any assistance is available for you. We are here to support you and guide you along your journey. I hope you have an awesome day! Warmly, Cheryl <a href='http://migraine.com' target='_blank'>migraine.com</a> team
2. Rebecca C Moderator
 <inline-mention username="ilovtheend" user-id="4705365"/> - Having a chronic medical condition can be so debilitating, add more than one chronic condition to the mix it's nearly impossible to manage and is all-consuming in one's life. I hope you are healing up well and that you find better health. Thanks for sharing your journey. I am in the same boat as I do not know what each day will bring me when I put my first foot on the floor getting out of bed. I've gotten to the point of focusing on the hour ahead of me, and pay no attention to those who question why I work from home and don't venture out much. It is a tremendous day when I shower, feed myself, and venture across the front door threshold, which I must do more often for my mental health. As for disability income, I've recently tackled this topic. I have recvd disability just recently with the help of a 3rd party. I couldn't imagine applying on my own as it was time-consuming and extremely complicated where there are immediate deadlines to reach and extremely sensitive materials needed from physicians and treating therapies/therapists. If one thing is incorrect your application may be booted. I do not want to frighten you, but it was hard. I recommend getting help. Best of luck and thanks for offering up your story here in our wonderfully inspiring community ~ Warmly Rebecca (comm advc)
juli1961 Member
I was diagnosed with migraines when I was 14. Prior to that, I was diagnosed with major clinical depression. In 2004, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. In the last few years, my migraines went from episodic to chronic. The migraine and fibro pain added to the depression to create a downward spiral-- the more I hurt, the more I depress; the worse my depression, the more I hurt. It isn't fun. Plus, I'm getting older and have been living with degenerating joints, degenerating disks, and in general just falling apart. I am fortunate enough to have outstanding doctors. My neurologist specializes in migraine. My PCP is very good, she tries to get me appointments to see her at least 4 times a year.
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="juli1961" user-id="3779466"/> What you describe - the cycle and domino effect of one condition impacting another is a tough reality and something so many of us experience. You are definitely not alone in this. I'm so sorry this is something you are facing. Having a team of doctors you trust and believe in is a huge puzzle piece in managing these challenges. Bravo that you have pulled together just such a group on your behalf. Another important piece of the puzzle is securing emotional support to assist in your navigation of this tricky terrain. Reaching out and connecting here with others who are living with migraine is a great way to receive support and gain perspective. We are here for you and in this with you-- and we're so glad you're here with us. Please stay in touch. Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
rosecolouredglasses Member
I've had migraines for almost 40 years, going from a few times a year to chronic about 15 years ago. I'm fairly well managed with botox & acute pain meds, but have at least a low grade migraine many days of the month. I also have Raynaud's and vasospastic angina (these 3 often occur together). And recurrent kidney stones. All of this means I can't use most of the common migraine meds, and that I often have to use nitro spray for angina - which almost always triggers a massive migraine. What's bothering me most these days is that I'm clumsy with the head pain & exhaustion- broke my toe walking into a piece of furniture last month and now keep losing my balance. Last night I managed to drop a heavy glass pot lid on the same foot and also my other shin. I've retreated to bed and have the whole family telling me to take it easy and be careful. I miss my mobile, competent self 😉
1. rosecolouredglasses Member
 <inline-mention username="Melissa Arnold" user-id="3827796"/> & <inline-mention username="Nancy Harris Bonk" user-id="3845796"/> - Thank you both for the commiseration! It's especially good to hear that your's (Nancy) took 6 weeks in a boot. I'm a bit worried that mine hasn't healed properly as I still have pain and foot numbness. Will discuss with my GP this week. I really miss my long walks in the woods, not to mention an upcoming trip where I will need to be able to walk and climb 5 flights of stairs daily. My neurologist has suggested a brain mri to rule out other causes for the balance issues, so we shall see. At least the botox has kicked in and muted most of the migraine symptoms for now. Touch wood. I envy people that don't need so many medical appointments, but I also feel fortunate to have such good care and the time to take care of myself. Many 'healthy' people seem to put themselves last on the list.
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 My goodness, what a journey you are on. I hope you can get back to your walks in the woods (I'm a fellow woods-walker and understand the goodness that can bring in terms of life-balance against migraine and other health conditions). Very glad the Botox gives you some relief. I agree that it's hard not to envy those with bodies that work so easily with seemingly little upkeep - and interesting how they take things for granted. We don't have that option. I do tend to think and hope that our more high-maintenance selves can lead to being more tuned in to self-care on many fronts. In the process, we prioritize healthy sleeping and eating habits, as we do all we can to avoid the triggers in our control. Thanks so much for sharing. If you do get that MRI, please let us know how it goes. We're thinking of you. Warmly- Holly -migraine.com team.
Kabd Member
I have had chronic migraines, stage 4 endometriosis, likely Adenomyosis and CFS for many, many years. Most days are a significant struggle. I have tried most migraine and endometriosis medications as well as excision surgery, but nothing has stopped the migraines and debilitating fatigue which is present before, during and after the migraine. For the past year, I have experienced chronic left sided ovary/pelvic pain, hip pain, and migraines for about 20 days every month. Interestingly, I am nearing my mid-50’s and was praying for a slow down with regard to continuous pain on all these fronts. Perimenopause as well as the beginnings of menopause have not been kind. I have always thought my migraines had a hormonal component to them. I charted my periods and recognized a pattern of intense migraines around ovulation through the 2nd half of the month. I haven’t had a period in almost a year, but the chronic headaches and pelvic pain continue. I started Myfembree about six weeks ago, which has just been approved for the treatment of moderate to severe pain from endometriosis. I want to believe this medication is helping with the continuous left sided pelvic pain, it’s not as severe and the migraine pain seems to have lessened somewhat. It’s definitely too early to make an informed declaration, but this seems to be the first medication that has offered me any type of relief. 
1. JakeMaxwell Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="Kabd" user-id="3791991"/> I really appreciate you sharing about the immense challenges you've been facing with chronic migraine, endometriosis, Adenomyosis, and CFS. It sounds like you've been through so much in your journey to find relief and manage your symptoms. I'm glad to hear that you've found some hope with Myfembree and that it may be offering you some relief. It can be so frustrating and discouraging when treatments don't work, so it's encouraging to hear that you're finding some relief. I hope that you continue to see positive progress in managing your symptoms. Sending you warmth and support as you navigate this journey. - Jake (Team Member)
2. Amanda Workman Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Kabd" user-id="3791991"/> I hope this finds you having a low-pain day, Thank you for sharing your story. I have been living with those same conditions myself. I did not know about Myfembree prior to your post. A combination pill is so much nicer than trying to manage them all individually. I am so glad that you have started to see some improvement since you started the medication! Maybe by balancing your hormones, your migraine will ease up for you. Does somebody treat your other conditions? Best wishes - Amanda W (team member)

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