Page 82 - The-Complete-Guide-to-Migraine-Headaches_Neat

The Complete Guide to Migraine Headaches by Alice Peart Page 83 of 87

43. Common Mistakes in
Treating Migraine Headaches

Migraine headaches do not occur in isolation. Such headaches have many

preludes like minor daily and less severe headaches. However, most doctors do
not consider these preludes and offer treatment only for severe migraine

headaches. This is a common mistake in migraine treatment.

Many times, patients do not realize they have migraine headaches. Physicians
prescribe different OTC and sinus medications and antibiotics. Patients are not

clear in expressing their discomfort while physicians do not give enough
necessary importance to the prevalent symptoms.

Many migraine sufferers do not maintain any regular diary detailing the time,

occurrence, severity and frequency of their migraine attacks. Despite various
educational efforts, many do not record symptoms and effects of a migraine

pain. Hence, they continue to suffer.

Many physicians do not offer migraine-specific therapy. Although these therapies
are usually considered safe for migraine patients, physicians are not very

forthcoming.

Statistically, heart attacks are a common occurrence for people between 55 and
65 years. Triptans, used in migraine therapy, can cause heart attacks. Therefore,

fear of lawsuits prevents many physicians from prescribing such migraine
therapy.

Most migraine sufferers refrain from using migraine-preventive therapy.

Preventative therapy needs close and regulated monitoring. Prolonged use of
such medications may cause various side-effects. Both physicians and patients

have an equal responsibility to maintain a record or diary to note effectiveness of
such therapy.

Copyright © 2006 Alice Peart 83.