My Life with Migraine

Hello, to all of my fellow migraine sufferers. I send hugs and prayers and thank you for sharing your stories. I started with migraines that were related to my monthly cycle around 14. They let up and I didn't have a problem until my mid 20's when seasonal allergies were my main trigger. Zyrtec and Flonase helped plus I had Fioricet/Fiorinal if those didn't work.

Head trauma and addiction

At 39 I was in a horrible car wreck and smashed my head into the windshield. I have been left with utterly debilitating post-concussive migraines. In the years since the wreck, I have tried a myriad of drugs. Imitrex (allergic reaction), I can tolerate Maxalt, became addicted to Stadol, we tried Topamax and Propranolol. I take Gabapentin for nerve damage in my neck (I have a titanium plate & 6 screws at C5-C6). I am 4 years and 10 months clean off all narcotics and muscle relaxers.

Moving forward with new treatment

Currently, weather and stress are my biggest triggers. I am involved with a study at Dartmouth Hitchcock in Lebanon, NH with Emgality injections. The first shot helped tremendously, the second not too good. But I am sticking it out and have had to take some short runs on Prednisone to break the clusters that are happening. Hoping that all of this will work itself up.

Putting myself first

I do struggle with depression and anxiety and take meds for them. Self-care has become very important to me to live my best life. Taking time to rest, journal, listen to music, spend time with friends, etc. If we don't take care of ourselves we can't help too many others.

A new career

I was a pharmacy technician for 20 years, and have been in retail for almost 30 years. I have left this and am working as a Comfort Keeper's helping take care of our senior population's and it is so much better. Please keep sending me your stories, tips, or message me if you want to talk more. Blessings to all!