Has Anyone Had a Deep Brain Stimulator (Dbs) Placed to Treat Their Migraines?
I've been a migraine sufferer for 25 years and my doctors are running out of options. I was sent to a Neurosurgeon and was told I would be a good candidate for Deep Brain Stimulation. I am aware that it is primarily used for stroke patients and Parkinson's patients and was told I would be the youngest person this doctor would be doing this procedure on. So, I guess what I'm saying is I know the risks, I know the odds..etc, I'm just hoping there is someone who has had this procedure that could give me their take on it...the good, the bad, the ugly. I'm not scheduled yet, but I would give my right arm to be in less pain at this point. Thanks in advance.....Dana
Hi Dana,
Thank you so much for reaching out. I totally understand being desperate and wanting to try anything to stop the pain. Many of us, including myself have been there.
If you don't mind, may I ask a few questions? Here goes!! Have you been to see a true migraine/headache disease expert and not just a general neurologist? If not, I would encourage you to do so as these doctor have extra board certification in headache medicine, whereas general neurologists and neurosurgeons may not. Even if you have seen a true expert, see another one for a second, third or fourth opinion. I'm currently seeing my 5th true expert and making a bit of progress. These doctors treat migraine and headache disease all day, every day. Here is information to get you started;
https://migraine.com/blog/really-find-headache-specialist/ and https://migraine.com/getting-help/is-it-time-for-a-new-migraine-doctor/.
There are more and more treatments coming down the line including medications and devices. In fact there are over 100 medications, devices and supplements that can be used for treating migraine right now!! I know it can feel hopeless, but hang on, there really is light at the end of the tunnel. When you get a chance, take a look at this information about migraine preventive options; https://migraine.com/blog/migraine-preventives-start/.
Now on to by personal opinion, which in no way represents Migraine.com. I strongly encourage you to seek out other forms of treatment before having brain surgery. There is no evidence, that I can find, this will work for migraine disease. The thing is migraine is considered a genetic, neurological disease that is triggered by stimuli, or triggers. If we can identify our triggers and avoid the ones we can, we may be able to reduce migraine attack frequency and severity, but not always. But brain surgery, not for me!
Please let me know if you have questions, I'm here for you!
NancyNancy,
This is definitely a last ditch effort. I have tried and failed so many things... Botox, other injections, inpatient Lidocaine x2, inpatient Ketamine, a trial Spinal Cord Stimulator, chiropractors, PT, acupuncture, dry needling, CGRP’s, and other things not listed. It’s definitely not something I take lightly. My Neurologist supports its, my psychiatrist does not. Is there a way I can speak to you privately? I have a few questions that I’d rather not have put out for everyone to read.
Thanks
Dana
Hey, If that’s the same thing I’ve discussed with My Doctor, I say STAY AWAY from it.,
There were and are too many chances for lifetime side effects, BAD ONES.
Holler at Me.
Praying for Ya
lynndriskell@icloud.com try it.
