Headache and Migraine News

A Personal Note from James

James — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:26:01 +0000

Hi everyone! It’s about time I stopped by just to share a bit of a personal note, in case you’re wondering what’s going on. I don’t do this too often here, but many of you have shown interest and in this case the personal note does relate to this website as well.

Some of you might have noticed that, at the very least, I haven’t been responding to comments as much as usual. Well, I haven’t been able to keep up with everything as much as I’ve wanted to.

Part of the reason is health. I’ve been adjusting (maybe?) to some new treatments, and also my health has been poorer than usual. So to say the least, keeping up with the website and blog have been a big effort.

However, be assured that I am reading your comments, and your emails. I’m taking note of them, and continuing my research so that I can answer your questions and write about the things that you’re interested in.

So you are not being ignored! I still care, and I will continue to do my best to bring you quality, well researched, practical and accurate information.

I will be travelling over the summer, so it remains to be seen how much posting I’ll be able to do. But I’ll do my best. And I have some exciting plans for the fall for Headache and Migraine News, so stay tuned!

And I know, you’re still waiting for the next instalment of the trigger points series. The research is almost done, but I’m not sure when I’ll be able to post it. I haven’t forgotten!

The podcasts are another thing that has suffered. But I’ve enjoyed doing them, and hope to continue when I can. What do you think? Are they worth the effort?

Anyway, this wasn’t supposed to be a big apology – just wanted to let you know what’s going on so that you’re in the loop. I’m all right, but need to take things one step at a time.

Remember, you can also follow me on Twitter. Every once in a while I post links to interesting information there that you won’t see here, as well as the usual Twitter-type stuff.

And now, back to our regularly scheduled programming…

Random other posts:

From the Headache and Migraine News Blog

A Personal Note from James

1% Thursday: Learn One New Thing about your condition

James — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:54:09 +0000

Take some time online to learn one new thing about migraine, headache, or whatever you’re dealing with.

Let’s face it. I’ve been studying migraine and headaches for 20 years, but I’m constantly struck by something new. And that something new may be a key that eventually leads to some real improvement.

Take some time to search now. You can start by searching here, which will cover this blog and related articles.

A good rule of thumb: If you read something really surprising, see if you can find it confirmed somewhere else, particularly on a site you trust. If you find only one website making claims, there’s a good chance you’re reading something that’s just speculation, or even an outright lie. More good advice at 12 ways to Evaluate Migraine News.

What is 1% Thursday?

Every Thursday at Headache and Migraine News (weather permitting) we’ll talk about one measurable, practical thing we can do to make our lives just 1% better. Usually it will be something very easy, sometimes it will be a challenge. Let us know if you try it, or share an idea of your own – and maybe a year from now we’ll see that things have really changed for the better!

These other posts might relate:

From the Headache and Migraine News Blog

1% Thursday: Learn One New Thing about your condition

More interesting Sleep Apnea Studies

James — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 18:03:40 +0000

We’ve been talking a lot here about sleep apnea (sleep apnoea). There does seem to be a close relationship between sleep apnea and migraine or chronic headache. In February we talked about a fascinating new study about sleep apnea.

Also, don’t miss the podcast on sleep apnea here.

But Marijke Durning has been posting on some interesting studies on sleep apnea as well, over at Blisstree. So I just wanted to direct your attention over there – check out Sleep apnea? A simple exercise may help and also Oboe Players May Lower Sleep Apnea Risk.

Anyone feel like taking up a new instrument?

Thanks Marijke!

These other posts might relate:

From the Headache and Migraine News Blog

More interesting Sleep Apnea Studies

How to be a better Headache or Migraine Doctor

James — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 22:44:17 +0000

Some people love their doctors. Others … well … feel they could be getting better treatment elsewhere. What makes the difference? What makes a good migraine doctor?

In our last poll, we asked our visitors about their migraine doctors and specialists. The question was, I would be happier with my doctor/specialist more if he/she … what?

Here are the answers, starting with the one with the most votes:

"I would be happier with my doctor/specialist more if he/she …"

showed more concern/took me seriously. Doctors tend to be rushed, is that the reason why they sometimes brush off patients? I think there’s something more here though. There are some doctors who still assume that almost every headache is minor, and they aren’t aware of the impact some of these disorders have on their patients lives. Sometimes that’s because patients don’t explain the life impact fully. But other times doctors make assumptions that they shouldn’t. I think this is changing, but there’s still work to be done. This was easily the top answer, chosen by 18.5%, or almost 1 in 5 patients.
was more knowledgeable about my condition. I think more knowledge would help with the first issue as well. Let’s be fair here though. Our understanding of neurology and the brain has exploded in the last 20 years. It’s not possible for every doctor to keep up, and very difficult for a specialist to keep up. You should expect your doctor to be aware of the basics of major conditions such as migraine, but you can’t expect her to know all the latest research and treatments. Patients need to find someone who specializes in their condition if at all possible, and doctors need to be willing to admit their limitations and make referrals.
thought more creatively about issues related to my treatment. This was almost tied with the last one, with about 1 in 8 patients with these concerns. This is a tricky one, but it does point to the fact that medicine is an art as well as a science. There are doctors who just keep going over the same ground again and again, but could get to a better treatment with a little creative thinking, a few creative questions, a little digging. It’s easy to start thinking you’ve seen it all before, but in the world of headache every patient really is unique. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box.
was open to a wider variety of treatments. The next two are tied, with about 1 in 9 patients answering this way. This may have a lot to do with alternative treatments. Doctors are becoming more and more open to alternative treatments. One reason is that the research is starting to prove that many alternative treatments have real value. On the other hand, some have very little evidence to back them up. Find a doctor who will look at the evidence, and at the very least listen to what treatments you’re considering and offer suggestions or warnings.
explained to me what she/he’s thinking. It’s not only condescending, it’s very frustrating when a doctor won’t work together with her patients. It is essential in today’s world for doctors and patients to work together to find treatments that work. If your doctor won’t take the time to explain to you why she is recommending a treatment or drug, consider looking for another doctor.
listened more. More than 1 in 10 answering the poll put this in their top 3. Let’s put it this way. With all the frustration, misdiagnoses, and patients who go years without proper treatment, something is not being done right. I’m convinced this is part of it. I’m also convinced it’s a two way street. Doctors need to learn to listen, question, and pay attention. Patients also need to learn to come prepared, question, and explain things clearly and succinctly. We all have to do better in this area to fight headache and migraine effectively. Tips for talking with your doctor here and here.
was more up to date on current treatments/issues. These last few were mentioned less, so I’m just going to include this one in the list and then mention the others briefly. About 1 in 13 patients mentioned this one, and it’s certainly related to some of the other points above, so still important. Being knowledgeable, up to date, and open to a wider variety of treatments all go together. Migraine and headache are major issues in today’s society, and doctors need to stay abreast of the issues or send their patients to someone who is.

There were three more that were still important concerns but only mentioned by a few patients. Some said that they wished their doctors trusted them more, which I think goes along with working together. Quite a few also said they wished their doctor wouldn’t give up so easily. Though only a few mentioned it in this poll, this is not the first time I’ve heard this, and it is an important issue. In this day and age, no one is going to live long enough to try every available migraine treatment, for example. No doctor should throw up her hands and say,"Well, we’ve tried it all!"

Some people said none of the above of course, so I’ll leave that up to your imagination (or your comments!). Finally, a few simply wished their doctor was more competent. Thankfully, that was a very small minority.

Most doctors do seem to be working hard, working with their patients and trying to help. I have a lot of respect for the many doctors and specialists who have helped so many.

Still, I know that doctors can do better. I hope those of you reading this will simply take it as data to use to make your practice even better, because I know that the vast majority of you want to help your patients find the answers.

Let’s work together. It’s time to fight back.

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From the Headache and Migraine News Blog

How to be a better Headache or Migraine Doctor

1% Thursday: Start a Headache Diary (Migraine Diary)

James — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 17:48:25 +0000

Start or restart a headache diary (and stick with it for 14 weeks).

Maybe you started one before, or maybe you’ve always meant to start one, but it just seemed like too much work. Well, now’s your day to start. Download a headache diary from here, print out 14 copies, and put them somewhere where you’ll be reminded to fill them in. Have someone else in the household remind you.

Filling out a diary doesn’t have to be torture. Take a look at A Migraine Diary: The Lazy Way, and see just how easy it can be. And 14 weeks – about 3 months – will give you a great baseline to compare how things change in the future, even if you go for periods without filling it in.

Dairies can help you track down other types of headaches that may be hidden behind what your doctor is just calling "migraine" or "tension-type headache". They can show you patterns and triggers that can be avoided, and show just how much good or harm medication and supplements are doing.

Give it a try. 14 weeks. It’s not as hard as you think!

What is 1% Thursday?

Every Thursday at Headache and Migraine News (weather permitting) we’ll talk about one measurable, practical thing we can do to make our lives just 1% better. Usually it will be something very easy, sometimes it will be a challenge. Let us know if you try it, or share an idea of your own – and maybe a year from now we’ll see that things have really changed for the better!

These other posts might relate:

From the Headache and Migraine News Blog

1% Thursday: Start a Headache Diary (Migraine Diary)

Cambia – new drug for Migraine

James — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:45:19 +0000

Kowa Pharmaceuticals America, Inc announced on Monday that the FDA in the United States approved their new drug, Cambia, for migraine.

Cambia is a combination drug. First, it’s a diclofenac based non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). There are many many brands in this category, including Cataflam, Arthrotec, Zolterol, and Diclon. This type of NSAID is often used for migraine.

The addition is potassium bicarbonate. This is a mineral that is sometimes used to treat potassium deficiency among other things. You’ll recognize it under brand names such as Effervescent Potassium and K-Effervescent.

Cambia seems to be effective in treating migraine pain, as well as some other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound (photo and phonophobia) and nausea. It can provide some relief fairly quickly – within 15-30 minutes. Cambia uses Dynamic Buffering Technology, which is intended to help the with absorption.

Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking Cambia. It has the risk of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal issues as with most NSAIDs, and can interact with some other migraine drugs. Common side effects are dizziness and nausea.

Read more about Cambia for migraine here.

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Cambia – new drug for Migraine

Highlights from the last 3 Months (June 2009 edition)

James — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 01:00:33 +0000

Here are the posts that have been especially popular over the last three months – with you! Thanks for stopping by.

There are some really important topics this month. The difference between cluster and migraine, which is so often misunderstood. Also, quite a bit of discussion about migraine vs the "common headache". A few other specific issues as well. And the hottest topic by far – gluten syndrome and migraine – a topic we’re going to have to come back to. Be sure to check out the comments!

The most popular posts are listed first:

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From the Headache and Migraine News Blog

Highlights from the last 3 Months (June 2009 edition)

Migraine drug brings down Drug Company?

James — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:25:46 +0000

All right, it’s not quite that simple. But the dramatic fall of TorreyPines Therapeutics does have something to do with the … well, previously up-and-coming migraine drug, Tezampanel.

It happened back in 2007. TorreyPines had been working on a new kind of drug for migraine, and had been hoping to expand it to other types of pain as well in the future. The next phase of the drug trial came out in the last quarter and…

Investors were unimpressed. Very unimpressed.

The share price of the company began to plummet in the months ahead. Worldwide financial upheaval didn’t come at a good time. People working for the company started going elsewhere. Finally, TorreyPines decided to sell.

But no one was buying.

So this spring the company decided to liquidate what was left of its assets.

During this time, the trials of Tezampanel had continued. You can read more about the drug here, but the news was good on three fronts – first, it looked like it was going to work for some people. Second, there was hope it would work for some that nothing else would work for. Third, it represented a new approach to migraine that would hopefully lead to more research and more treatments.

But it’s a world in which many people have had to take a step back instead of forwards. After the fall of TorreyPines, will any one else want to take the risk with Tezampanel? And if not, how long will it take us to get back to where we were on this line of research? Probably quite a while. Sorry, but it’s not always good news…

These other posts might relate:

The Latest on Tezampanel, a new Migraine Drug

From the Headache and Migraine News Blog

Migraine drug brings down Drug Company?

1% Thursday: Take a walk in the evening

James — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 17:46:12 +0000

This week, try taking a short, brisk walk in the evenings.

Exercise itself is a major help for people with headache and migraine. Simply walking regularly may indeed make a huge impact on your life – you may be surprised!

This article by Cindy Brotherston, CFT of www.Busywomensfitness.com is a great testimonial of someone who suffered from migraine and found what exercise could do – read it on our Headache and exercise page.

But I’m not just suggesting you get more exercise. Getting up and about during the day may also help you sleep better at night – which can make a significant difference when it comes to many types of headache disorders. This recent research on sleep apnea gives us another reason to go for walks.

Walking also gets you away from the normal stresses of life, gives you a change, and does all kinds of great things for your body. Try it this week – and maybe longer!

What is 1% Thursday?

Every Thursday at Headache and Migraine News (weather permitting) we’ll talk about one measurable, practical thing we can do to make our lives just 1% better. Usually it will be something very easy, sometimes it will be a challenge. Let us know if you try it, or share an idea of your own – and maybe a year from now we’ll see that things have really changed for the better!

These other posts might relate:

From the Headache and Migraine News Blog

1% Thursday: Take a walk in the evening

“Premonitory” Symptoms of Migraine in Children

James — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:01:31 +0000

An interesting study was done in France of 103 children and adolescents with migraine. The goal was to discover what, if any, "premonitory" symptoms the children had.

It turns out that premonitory symptoms, sort of early-on symptoms before the full blown attack and pain (if any), are quite common in children. 67% reported at least one symptom, though most had more than one – on average there were two symptoms of the 15 that the study measured for.

The most common symptoms? Face changes, irritability, and fatigue. The last two are common in adults, the first one isn’t. Face changes seem to be unique to child migraine.

Read about the study here.

via Somebody Heal Me

These other posts might relate:

From the Headache and Migraine News Blog

“Premonitory” Symptoms of Migraine in Children