I'm new to this forum, so I hope you will be patient, as many of my issues have probably already been addressed, but here goes:
I have been suffering with migraines for 17 years now. Over the years they got progressively worse. My GP sent me to a neurologist years ago. I feel as though I have tried every medication and alternative therapy that exists. From acupuncture, botox, chiropratic, massage therapy, hypnois, vitamins, herbal remedies, high blood pressure medications, tryphans, antiseizures meds, ice and lavender and nothing works but a pain med or shot. Believe me I have gone without any pain meds, over the counter or prescriptions because I was being cautious about the "rebound effect." I keep a regular sleep pattern. To add to this last year I was diagnosed with hepatitis C 1a and am just finishing up 48 weeks of a type of chemotherapy that caused more migraines. As far as the hep c is concerned, I was very fortunate because I have very minimal liver damage. The only obvious way I contracted this was from a transfusion in 1976. Not one doctor ever tested me for hep but tested me for HIV because of the transfusion. I had placenta previa while pregnant and bled profusely, was given a c-section and blood to save my life. However, my little son did pass away. He only weighed 3lbs 8oz. Of course now there is so much they can do for premature babies, but that was 33 years ago. Anyway, I'm hoping that some of my headaches have stemmed from the hep c, but I will have to wait until the meds are out of my system to know. I am so frustrated with my neurologist as he is frustrated with me. I have led a pretty "clean" lifestyle; I have been a compliant patient; I have tried everything that doctors and lay people have suggested, and now am just so frustrated with hearing the same advice over and over as though I haven't been intelligent enough to research everything and try everything. How do I respond to my doctor because sometimes I feel he doesn't believe me? Thanks for reading my tyriad.
Wilful1