Migraine Frequency Increasing with Age

By migraine123

1 min read

I am 47 and I have suffered migraines my entire life. As a kid I recall taking asprin every time I had a "headache" kids didn't get migraines back then, only adults. My father is also a migraine sufferer. It was about 20 years ago that I sought medical advice, up until then I thought that I just had to find a way to live with headaches. I was quickly diagnosed with migraine and since then I have tried many different medications. None of the preventative ones worked, so I have been taking Triptans at the first signs. These have been working great, but since the frequency of migraines has increased with age, I am taking triptans almost every day. My neurologist said not to take more that 12 doses per month. That leaves me in quite a dilemma. As I am sure I don't need to tell you, an untreated migraine is a substantial disability.

I have recently been prescribed Aimovig, but in order to get it there is lots or red tape to go through and also I am a bit scared of peoples reports of unpleasant side effects.

My latest thoughts are whether or not try CBD's. I have heard that they can be effective, but again, in order to get them prescribed it also involves much bureaucracy.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Migraine.com team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

Join the conversation

Please read our rules before commenting.

Allyson.Ellis Community Admin
migraine123, thank you for reaching out. I hear how overwhelming it feels, living with migraine and struggling to determine the best treatment plan for you. All bodies are unique and while some people respond well to the CGRP medications or CBD oil, others do not. It is frustrating not being able to predict how you personally will respond before trying! We cannot offer medical advice over the internet (for your safety!) but I thought you might find this article to be of interest as it discusses the similarities and differences between the three CGRP medications: <a href='https://migraine.com/clinical/cgrp-similar-different/' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/clinical/cgrp-similar-different/</a> You may also find these threads discussing Aimovig and CBD oil to be of interest where other members share their experiences: <a href='https://migraine.com/q-and-a/tried-cbd-oil-management/' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/q-and-a/tried-cbd-oil-management/</a> <a href='https://migraine.com/topic/tried-newly-approved-aimovig-share-experience/' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/topic/tried-newly-approved-aimovig-share-experience/</a> Please keep us posted on what you decide to pursue and how you are managing. Wishing you a gentle day. ~Allyson (Migraine.com team)
9xv8du Member
I fully understand migraine123’s situation. I too have had migraine since childhood. No need to repeat all the treatments that I have tried and that have failed. I am now using Aimovig. Although it is new it has few side effects. The main one is constipation . I am in Canada where paperwork has been minimal and cost of the drug is covered by the drug company. Good luck with your journey..you are not alone.....Joan
a872vb Member
Hello Migraine123, do not lose hope. I've suffered from migraines since childhood as well. After my 3rd child they worsened to the point where I had no life. I've been disabled thanks to migraines. Thanks to Aimovig I finally have found some relief. No, they're not completely gone but at least I can be with my family. Also, I get ONB shots every 8 weeks. I got the access card from Aimovig and it was super easy. In the meantime my doctor kept appealing with the insurance. Finally they said yes but to the Ajovy. My neuro is fine with this since they're similar. Bottom line, go to the access card page and enroll. Before you know it you will find help. Blessings to you and yours.
1. kellikens Member
 Amovig did not help me one bit. I was so disappointed.
jeanettelwhite Member
I feel your pain. Since we are limited in our use of Triptans, I find cannabis elivates my pain and does not cause any negative side effects. Be of good health.
1. migraine123 Member
 Thank you 
2. migraine123 Member
 Thanks for replying, I am on day 2 of CBD oil. I am taking 10drops twice a day. So far I have some relief . I will keep you updated.
kellikens Member
I’ve turned to CBD edibles a few times. They helped quite a bit, when my migraine meds wouldn’t touch the pain. For the most part, it made me sleepy and my migraine was greatly diminished or gone upon waking. Of course, this is some of the time, not everytime I’ve tried them. But I’ll take whatever relief I can get!
xgiv31 Member
Hello. I am 52 and it is depressing to have my migraines worsen over the last few years. The jury is still out whether Aimovig was helping. I have an appointment this week to receive my second injection of Ajovy. For triptans, I split them (40mg Eletriptan) since I have to use them pretty frequently. This seems to work well. I don’t see any rebound effect but I’m careful in how I use them- keeping this in mind as well as the amount of prescription I might be allowed and the cost. My insurance doesn’t cover so I use Good Rx. I have hope that my mother’s migraines significantly subsided after menopause. I’m not there yet.

Community Poll

Do you feel comfortable advocating for yourself to your healthcare provider?