Migraine

[TYWITO]

I am afraid to take a medication for this because I don't want to get hooked on anything. I am a generally healthy person but can't take the pain anymore. Where do I start?

[myodoc]

The first thing to do is to better classify the migraine; for example, the location of headache, type of pain, associated features, frequency, duration and triggers (e.g. menstrual cycles). Once this is done, we can better treat the condition. I would recommend neurologic consultation to obtain a history. Treatment options will then include either abortive therapy at the time of the headache or if necessary, daily treatment to prevent the headaches. This all depends on the frequency. The meds we use are non-narcotic and therefore non-addictive but do need to be started slowly and weaned slowly. Your internist can get the ball rolling with a general physical to make sure blood pressure and blood work are normal.

Hope this is helpful.