Migraines - why put up with them?
September 22nd 2006 07:58
Anybody who gets frequent migraines knows how debilitating they can be, however, a recent article says that only 3-5% of women seek preventative treatment.
Why is the number so low?
I guess the first thing is migraines are not well diagnosed and often just seen as an extension of a headache, rather than a syndrome with a headache as one possible symptom. They are seen as something you get regularly (like period pain, maybe) and are therefore diagnosed at home and treated at home.
I'm also guessing that this statistic only includes drug treatment and not alternative treatment, which many wome use. I myself use non-drug treatments very effectively. Most people don't like the idea of being on life-long preventative medication.
I think also that most people know at least some of the triggers they have, and can pretty much trace back the cause of most of their migraines. This gives you some sembalance of control.. and you don't seek further treatment because you may feel like you are guilty and brought it on yourself by drinking that glass of red wine or eating those chocolate covered strawberries!
It's also possible that people who are not educated about migraines don't realise that there is alot that can be done, both in terms of drug therapy and lifestyle changes, that can reduce the incidence of migraine dramatically.
When I'm in my usual routine (and not travelling around the globe) I have managed to almost eliminate my migraines. It can be done without drugs, however it does take a fair bit of effort.
If you or someone you know has migraines, I'd be interested in your theories on why you think preventative treatment isnt sought, so please feel free to comment.
Why is the number so low?
I guess the first thing is migraines are not well diagnosed and often just seen as an extension of a headache, rather than a syndrome with a headache as one possible symptom. They are seen as something you get regularly (like period pain, maybe) and are therefore diagnosed at home and treated at home.
I'm also guessing that this statistic only includes drug treatment and not alternative treatment, which many wome use. I myself use non-drug treatments very effectively. Most people don't like the idea of being on life-long preventative medication.
I think also that most people know at least some of the triggers they have, and can pretty much trace back the cause of most of their migraines. This gives you some sembalance of control.. and you don't seek further treatment because you may feel like you are guilty and brought it on yourself by drinking that glass of red wine or eating those chocolate covered strawberries!
It's also possible that people who are not educated about migraines don't realise that there is alot that can be done, both in terms of drug therapy and lifestyle changes, that can reduce the incidence of migraine dramatically.
When I'm in my usual routine (and not travelling around the globe) I have managed to almost eliminate my migraines. It can be done without drugs, however it does take a fair bit of effort.
If you or someone you know has migraines, I'd be interested in your theories on why you think preventative treatment isnt sought, so please feel free to comment.
| 48 |
| Vote |
Subscribe to this blog
