“Have you tried…?”

If I had a dollar for every time someone has asked me this question I’d be rich! I used to feel obligated to explain why I had or hadn’t tried X suggestion when this question came up.

However, over the past few years, my responses have definitely improved and I take unsolicited advice with much more grace. I know people are trying to help, and often suggest solutions because they don’t know what else to say.

When I first started struggling with health issues, my answer was “no, not yet” to many of the things people suggested. However, now as an #experiencedspoonie I have actually given a fair number of the suggestions a shot.

This post is a general run down of the different practitioners, preventative, acute, and alternative treatments I’ve tried. If you have any questions on specifics, comment below and I’m happy to do a follow up post expanding!

Preventative medication (each trialed for at least 3 months):

• Topiramate (topomax + trokendi)

• Amitriptyline

• Noritriptyline

• Effexor

• Cymbalta

• Imipramine

• Propanolol

• Gabapentin

• Cyproheptadine

• Botox

• Aimovig

• Eneura device

• Cefaly device

Acute medical treatments: 

• Rescue medication, triptans: naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan (oral and injectable), frova

• Other rescue medications: fioricet, gabapentin, phenergan, zofran, benadryl, naproxen 500mg, ibuprofen 800mg, xanax, clonazepam, tizanidine, cyclobenzaprine

• SPG blocks

• Nerve blocks (greater occipital nerve block, lower occipital nerve block and targeted pressure point injections)

• DHE outpatient infusions

• Magnesium outpatient infusions

• Short course steroid tapers (dexamethasone and prednisone)

• Toradol injections

• Facet joint injections

• Intranasal ketamine

• Intranasal compound pharmacy SPG block formula

• Depakote infusions

• Emergency room/urgent care IV medication (variable)

Alternative treatments:

• Chiropractor

• Functional neurologist

• Acupuncture

• Chinese herbs

• Medically guided yoga

• Acupressure

• Osteopath

• Custom night guard for TMJ and teeth grinding

• Supplements

• Craniosacral massage

• Massage

• Cupping

• Essential oils, raindrop essential oil therapy

• Nutritionist guided elimination diet + food trigger investigation

• Physical therapy

• Cognitive behavioral therapy

• Pain management classes

• Health coach

• Biofeedback

• Mindfulness + meditation

In my search for effective treatment I’ve found so much inner strength I never knew I had.  A phobia of intravenous infusions conquered. Increased self-awareness and improved communication skills. The power of hope and perseverence. And deep connection with a widespread community of inspiring health warriors. 

Treating chronic migraine looks different for everyone, and I share this list as a jumping off point for new ideas on your own journey. Every migraineur’s symptom and treatment history is unique as a fingerprint, and what works for you depends on many unique individual factors, timing and so much more.