Question: Can you have Migraines without the headache?
Answer:
Dear "Aura" Sufferer:
Certainly, if you're not comfortable with your diagnosis, seek a second opinion. A second opinion is never a bad thing. We can neither confirm nor question via the Internet. There is a variant of Migraine called acephalgic Migraines in which a Migraineur doesn't experience the headache phase of the attack. When Migraineurs experience the headache phase sometimes, but not all the time, many doctors recommend taking an abortive such as Imitrex as soon as the aura starts. Abortives act on all Migraine symptoms, not just head pain.
You mentioned high blood pressure. That's something that you need to be cautious about with triptans, including Imitrex. You'll find that all the prescribing information cautions that it should only be taken by people with high blood pressure if their blood pressure is well controlled.
There's really no way for anyone to predict what pattern Migraines will follow. If you are experiencing Migraines, it's important to stay in touch with your doctor if your pattern changes -- if they become more frequent, your symptoms change, etc.
If your doctor isn't very experienced with Migraine, you may do well to consult a specialist. There's a link to our directory of recommended specialists below.
Please take care of that blood pressure!
Good luck,
Teri Robert
(Answer reviewed by Dr. Krusz)
____________
To visit our directory of recommended specialists and clinics, click
HERE.
