Migraines
Migraines have afflicted humans for centuries, from ancient Egyptians and Julius Caesar, to Elvis Presley and you. If you’re one of the 28 million Americans suffering from migraines, you know the unique agony. Armed with the information from this guide about diagnosis, treatment plans, prevention, medications and behavioral therapies, perhaps you’ll be able to reduce the severity and frequency of your own headaches.
It's estimated that up to 18 percent of women and 6 percent of men suffer from migraines. But what ... read more »
Though there is little consensus on migraines’ causes, or how best to prevent them, there is ... read more »
The personal toll of this disorder can be enormous; it includes work absences, unmet familial and social obligations, and the stress of wondering when the next migraine will come. There are medication options to balance, stresses you can't seem to minimize, and even a genetic component of this disorder, over which you have no control. The comfort and support of a listening ear can be invaluable, particularly when it comes from other migraine sufferers who know what you're experiencing firsthand.
- Spend a few moments thinking about the kind of support you want before jumping into message boards. Are you looking for help with medication side effects? Craving more information about triggers, diet alternatives, or ways to incorporate exercise into your life? Be specific about your needs. And focus on the support and commiseration that steers you in a productive, hopeful direction.
- Be careful of any unsolicited advice you get either online or off. Don’t buy unendorsed products or fall victim to quick-fix scams.
For migraine message boards and online support…
Ronda's Migraine Page has what might be one of the most active “Discussion” forums online. Members are typically warm, supportive, and, best of all, informed. The “Journal” area provides an opportunity for migraine sufferers to share their histories and experiences, and in the “Chat Room,” visitors can talk with others online.
MyMigraineConnection.com features another very active forum, including thousands of posts. Ask a question or share advice on topics such as complementary therapies, doctors and clinics, or advocacy issues. Use the “Find” tool to search for specific topics of interest.
WebMD “Message Boards” might not be extremely active, but messages tend to be a bit more in-depth than those on other boards. Indie Cooper-Guzman, a registered nurse, hosts the migraine board and offers expert advice.
MAGNUM (the National Migraine Association) features a link to support groups around the United States. Unfortunately, face-to-face groups do not exist in every state, but the site provides help for starting a new group and contact information for online support.
The National Headache Foundation provides a list of local groups arranged by state. As with MAGNUM (above), not every state is represented, but the site also offers guidance in starting a new group.
Who knew?
RunWithTheWolves.com is like a well-meaning friend who tries to cheer you up despite looking as though she got dressed in the dark. Written by a migraine sufferer, the site is an odd collection of news commentary, poems, and personal anecdotes presented in a clunky format with primitive design (OK, it’s just plain ugly). However, the “Migraines—Miserable Mind Missiles” section is filled with inspirational writing that takes a humorous look at life as a migraine sufferer. It is possible to laugh through the pain!
As mentioned in the support section, suffering from this disorder can often be extremely isolating. ... read more »
Advances in treatment of migraines run the gamut from building endorphins and serotonin levels ... read more »
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