How to Discuss Trying a New Therapy With Your Provider

Back in my early twenties, I would get frequent headaches, which led to several ER trips. I dreaded the long wait time and the constant noises adding to my already stabbing head pain.

Once there, I was given a cocktail that included an antiemetic, IV fluids, Toradol, and sometimes magnesium would be added. Within a couple of hours, my head pain had dissipated, and awful fatigue was the only thing left in its place.

This combination of drugs was highly effective, and I wondered if there was a way to achieve this at home.

How have my relationships with my doctors been?

My experience with my providers has only sometimes been symbiotic. I struggled for years trying to find a doctor who took the time to listen to my concerns and questions actively.

When I was officially diagnosed with migraine disease by my general practitioner, I informed her how effective the cocktail was at lowering my head pain. I provided her with my medical records, including progress notes from the treating ER physician. There was no way I could remember anything during my hospital stay, so having paper records was necessary to convey precisely what I needed.

When have I asked to try new treatments?

After years of being episodic, my migraines had become chronic. My network did not have headache specialists, but the neurologist assured me he had plenty of experience treating headache disorders.

In 2019, a surge of new treatment options became available for those with acute and chronic migraine disease, and I was ecstatic. I was eager to try one of the new CGRPs on the market, so I spoke with my neurologist. He responded that there was insufficient data on how these therapies would affect me in the long run and that I should wait until more data came out.

Feeling dismissed, I concluded it was time for a second opinion, and I sought out a migraine specialist. Luckily, I was approved to see a migraine specialist in the UCLA migraine program out of network.

What are my tips to discuss treatments with your doctor?

Communication with your healthcare provider is a two-way street; both parties must listen actively and collaborate toward the best possible outcome for your health. Here are five tips for discussing a new treatment plan with your provider:

Tip 1: Be prepared

• Write down your goals for your appointment. It ensures you stay on track during the appointment.
• Keep a list of your symptoms in hard copy or on your phone. This will help your provider understand your attacks better.
• Use a reliable source for information regarding the therapy you want to try and print out the information.

 Tip 2: Communicate openly and honestly

• You and your provider should collaborate when planning care. If a specific treatment has worked for you, don’t be afraid to speak up. Be respectful but assertive. No one wants to feel dismissed.

Tip 3: Take notes during your appointment

• Anxiety can run wild during appointments, but taking notes ensures you haven't missed crucial information.
• Request your progress notes from your visits. Sometimes, details may be missing; this allows you to contact your provider for clarification, and the conversation was documented accurately.

Tip 5: Don’t Settle

• A lot of time is spent with your provider when you have migraine disease. You have the right to be heard. Aim to find a headache specialist. It is essential for the success of your migraine-specific treatment plan. These providers can offer tailored advice based on their expertise in the field.

What are my main takeaways?

Navigating the healthcare system and advocating for oneself can be challenging. Approach each medical appointment with a clear plan and understanding your health goals.

Effective communication with your provider is a two-way street; both parties must listen actively for the best possible outcome for your health.