Sinus problems as a potential trigger for my migraines...still experimenting

I have been a migraine sufferer now for nearly 30 years...since I was 19. Early on, I recognized the triggers were hormonal and from certain foods, so I learned I had to cut a lot out of my diet, such as chocolate, nuts, lunchmeats, bananas, orange juice, etc., and I just had to manage through it when it came to certain times of the month.

At certain times, I had migraines that would last up to three days during the month, at which time I would remain in bed for three days at a time. Then, after several years I found Imitrex, which worked well, then Excedrin migraine. When the migraines became more frequent, however, I learned I was suffering from rebound headaches and was told by my Dr., pharmacist and later, my neurologist that the over-the-counter stuff was the worst stuff for you, and was put on only preventive meds, topamax. Eventually, I had to increase to high doses of topamax, which soon I learned was not effective to prevent the migraines.

Then, I actually found that I was waking with headaches on a regular basis and was suffering more frequently from sinus infections. My headaches seemed to be stemming from pain behind my nasal cavaties, as well, although the Relpax was working to relieve the pain. Soon, after taking meds on a daily basis, my insurance carrier, deemed me to be an abuser, and cut me off from the meds. My Ear, Nose, Throat specialiast put me on a regimen of prednisone to relieve the irritation of the sinuses, but if that doesn't work, there may be some ballooning of the sinuses to open these. That may provide relief of the sinus pressure triggering the migraines. This does give relief in some patients and is a trigger for migraines that should not be overlooked for some. Before I do that, though, I will be seeking a second opinion from a headache specialist from a larger facility.

Good luck to all those migraine sufferers out there. I know what you're dealing with!!!