Understanding Persistent Migraines and Related Symptoms

Living with migraines is a challenging experience. Despite frequent migraines, some individuals report experiencing fatigue, lightheadedness, and nausea on days without migraines. These persistent symptoms require thorough investigation to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the underlying conditions. If your general practitioner or physiatrist has provided limited or inconclusive results, a second opinion from a specialist such as a neurologist or headache expert may be necessary. For more detailed information on managing migraines and associated symptoms, you can visit my Quora Profile dedicated to Comprehensive Migraine Assessment.

Migraines and Deep Underlying Worry

While well-documented triggers such as chocolate, cheese, and red wine often contribute to migraines, some individuals believe that deep underlying worry plays a significant role in their condition. Worry can potentially cause migraines to initiate, resulting in a self-perpetuating cycle. Engaging in enjoyable and absorbing activities can break this cycle and prevent migraines from setting up. This theory, though perhaps contrived, is grounded in long-term observations and experiences.

From a mechanistic standpoint, there’s a hypothesis that the mind might cause vascular constriction due to perceived threats or worry. Subsequently, another process might release a ‘dilator,’ causing the mixed symptoms of aura, tingling, memory loss, and headaches. This powerful mechanism appears to counteract the original constriction by some means, almost as though the brain recognizes the danger posed by the constriction.

Research supports these theories to some extent. For instance, a notable publication describes a sequence similar to this hypothesis. Furthermore, research on measuring brain changes has shown that such changes progress at a specific rate, coinciding with the progress of aura symptoms across the visual field.

Diagnosing Migraines and Finding the Right GP

While migraines can be challenging to diagnose, confirmation can often be achieved by taking a migraine medication and observing its effect on your symptoms. If the medication alleviates the pain, then it likely confirms a migraine diagnosis. It's important to note that this approach should be supervised by a medical professional.

Unfortunately, many general practitioners (GPs) lack adequate knowledge about migraines. It's crucial to seek out a specialist, like a physiatrist, who has experience working with migraine patients. If your current GP cannot provide the necessary help, consider finding another one with a good reputation in managing migraines.

Migraines are a real condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. However, it's disconcerting to encounter GPs who treat migraines with over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or dismiss them as non-existent. These attitudes only prolong suffering. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s essential to seek a different GP who is willing to explore migraine-specific treatments.

Effective Migraine Medications and CBD

Historically, ergotermine was used for migraine treatment, although it’s now mostly combined with caffeine. More recently, eletriptans have emerged as a popular alternative, though they are more expensive. Additionally, CBD (cannabidiol) has gained popularity for its potential in managing migraines, with fewer side effects compared to traditional cannabis. However, CBD remains expensive and in some regions, illegal. Therefore, it's important to discuss this option with your GP and consider getting a referral to a specialist who is familiar with CBD in migraine treatment.

MSG Sensitivity: Some migraines are triggered by monosodium glutamate (MSG), a common food additive. You may need to eliminate MSG from your diet, including hydrolyzed vegetable protein and certain meats, to determine if it’s a trigger. Observing a reduction or disappearance of migraines can indicate an MSG allergy.

In summary, if you suffer from migraines and related symptoms, finding the right health care provider is critical. Until you find a GP who is open-minded and committed to helping you, the rest of the medical profession may leave you in prolonged pain. You must take control of your health and actively seek the appropriate medical care.