Managing migraine can be challenging, which is why it’s important to build a strong relationship with your migraine specialist.
At your next appointment, don’t forget to mention if you’re experiencing these three things:
1. Frequent or More Severe Migraine Symptoms
If not properly managed with effective treatment, migraine attacks can cause debilitating pain and force you to put your life on pause. But you don’t have to live in fear of another migraine. Helpful acute medications are available to treat migraine symptoms as they develop, and people with chronic migraine–more than 15 headache days per month–can benefit from preventative medications as well. Always tell your doctor if you’re experiencing frequent or more severe migraine symptoms, like an aura, head pain and throbbing, sensitivity to light, sound, smell, and touch, and nausea or vomiting. If these migraine symptoms are still coming on despite the medications you’re taking and other therapies you’re receiving, your doctor can determine next steps to get your migraine better controlled.
2. Problems Adhering to Your Treatment Plan
Managing your migraine means you must follow your doctor’s treatment plan and commit to taking medications as prescribed. However, it can be challenging to keep taking your migraine medications if you’re experiencing side effects or your treatment schedule doesn’t work with your lifestyle. If you aren’t able to stick to your treatment plan, there’s nothing to be ashamed about. Be honest with your doctor about why you’re having trouble so you can work together to find a solution, which might mean a different drug, dosing schedule, or lifestyle change. Your doctor can also help you identify your migraine triggers and provide you with strategies for avoiding them when possible.
Dealing with a chronic and at-times debilitating condition like migraine can be tough, and it’s common for people to experience stress, anxiety, and depression as a result. In fact, studies show people with migraine are five times more likely to develop depression, and up to 50% of people with chronic migraine have anxiety. Plus, stress, anxiety, and depression can trigger migraine attacks and make symptoms worse. Fortunately, there are effective resources available to help you cope with the emotional side effects of life with migraine, from medications to meditation. Don’t be afraid to tell your doctor how you’ve been feeling. He or she can guide you to find the appropriate support and better manage your mental health. Getting outside help to boost your emotional wellbeing doesn’t mean you’ve failed; it means you’re using all the tools in your toolbox to live a fulfilling and healthy life.
Living with migraine can be difficult, but connecting with a migraine specialist you trust can make all the difference. If you’re open and honest about what you’re experiencing, you’re on your way to staying in control of your condition.