All Articles in Alphabetical Order

• 03/13/01 - 5-HTP: Check Before You Swallow
  5-HTP is a potentially valuable dietary supplement that promotes the body's production of serotonin. It's important, however, to treat such supplements as you would any other drug.
• 12/06/04 - Addiction versus Dependence: A Call for Public Education
  Pain creates a devastating situation for sufferers and those around them. Pain, especially chronic pain, is a debilitating, very dehumanizing condition. Albert Schweitzer said, "Pain is a more terrible lord than death itself." Unfortunately, the misinformation about narcotics that rules the U.S. is causing more and more people to be left in pain. Something must be done. Article by guest author Stephen Proctor.
• 9/28/04 - Aetna Introduces Migraine Management Program
  Aetna has introduced a Migraine management program to educate patients and ask patients and doctors to work together for better Migraine management. There is some doubt that this is an appropriate role for an insurance company. Is there a conflict of interest or will the program prove to be successful?
• 05/21/04 - "Alice in Wonderland:" A Children’s Book or a Migraineur’s Diary?
  Lewis Carroll wrote of truly bizarre events in his “Alice in Wonderland” books. Alice goes through all kinds of metamorphic change: gets larger or smaller, experiences double vision and hallucinations of smiling cats. Lewis had quite the imagination. Or WAS it imagination? Researchers suggest Carroll was actually a Migraineur, and Alice’s manifestations were representative of his Migraine auras.
• 05/01/01 - Amerge To Prevent Menstrual Migraine
  In a recent double-blind study, Amerge was found effective for preventing menstrually associated migraines and reducing the duration of break though migraines.
• 6/28/05 - AMPP Study: Migraine Preventives Underused
  We often talk about the great importance of Migraine prevention. Last week, while I was at the American Headache Society Conference, findings of a new study were presented. Results from the American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention (AMPP) Study indicate that 40 percent of Migraine sufferers – or nearly 12 million people – could benefit from preventive therapies. Of Migraine sufferers in the study, only one in five Americans currently uses preventive therapies, however, millions could benefit from these treatments.
• 01/20/04 - Anatomy of a Cluster Headache
  Cluster headaches are the most painful headache possible. The pain has been described as "boring", "tearing", or "burning." Analogies also are used, such as "a hot poker in the eye", or as if "the eye is being pushed out." Anyone who has ever had them, has no doubt what they are. It's no exaggeration to say that the pain and desperation of cluster headaches have actually led to suicides.
• 11/26/00 - Anatomy of a Migraine
  When many people think “migraine” they think only of the pain of migraine. In reality, a migraine episode consists of far more. The typical migraine episode actually consists of four parts, referred to as phases or components.
• 11/22/03 - Are Frivolous Lawsuits Driving Up Healthcare Costs?
  A new nonprofit organization, "Lawsuit Abuse Makes Us Sick," says they are and invites all to their Million Email March on Washington, D.C. A senior counselor for the group, Dr. Elizabeth Connell wants Americans to know how frivolous lawsuits threaten our healthcare system by driving up costs, jeopardizing medical innovation, limiting access to healthcare and making doctors afraid to practice medicine.
• 07/12/00 - Are you a ClusterHead?
  ClusterHead is how those who frequent ClusterHeadaches.com refer to people who suffer from cluster headaches. Cluster headaches occur with little or no warning and produce excruciating, debilitating pain. If you have the symptoms of cluster headaches, diagnosis is vital to rule out other problems.
• 07/27/00 - Arghhhhh! Rebound Headaches!
  You have a headache. Taking medications is one of the logical things to do. There is something to consider before you take that medication though -- the dreaded rebound headaches. They're caused by taking medications too often. Sometimes just taking a drug for two or three consecutive days can cause rebound. 
• 03/24/03 - Ask the Clinician
  Dr. John Claude Krusz, recognized expert in the fields of headache and Migraine and pain management answers questions submitted by our readers. Thank you, Dr. Krusz!
• 03/04/03- BCBS Says Triptan Limit Was an Error
  In the case we’ve been following, BCBS of Florida now says that limiting Ms. Brown’s triptans was “a mistake.” Is this truly a victory? Let’s explore the case and decide.
• 02/03/03- BCBS Still Limiting, Declined Response
  Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida had offered no resolution to the problems faced by their subscribers whose access to triptans is being limited. Here's a follow-up on the situation and what can be done to work toward a resolution for all patients who suffer these limitations.
• 09/21/00 - Beyond the Pain of Migraine
  Studies published this month by the American Academy of Neurology show a decreased quality of life for migraineurs and a link between migraine and depression. Once again, it's shown that a migraine is NOT just a headache. 
• 01/27/03- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Limits Access To Meds
  For many Migraineurs and ClusterHeads, the only medications that provide relief are triptans. Without triptans, we endure days of pain and other symptoms, resort to emergency room visits, or — in thankfully fewer cases — risk a stroke. Yet too many insurance companies limit the quantity they will pay for regardless of the prescription and the high insurance premiums patients have paid.
• 5/13/05 - A Blooming Onion to Larry King Live!
  This week, I have a problem. I've thought long and hard about the Larry King Live show from April 26 that dealt with Migraine Disease, read and reread the transcript of the show, and read all of your feedback. While I'd like to give them a Rose for doing a show on the subject, I'd also like to give them an Onion for some of the content of and fallout from the show. Thus, I've combined the two and present Larry King Live with a Blooming Onion! Some of you have asked what I thought of the show, and I've asked you to be patient. There's been a discussion going on in our forum, and I didn't want my opinion to influence it in any way...Whenever an effort is made to educate the public about Migraine disease, I applaud that effort and support it. That's why I promoted this show in advance. I still thank them for wanting to do the show, but wish it had been done better.
• 08/4/03 - Breastfeeding and Head Pain Disorders
  New mothers who experience migraine, tension headache, cluster headaches, and other head pain disorders are often reluctant to take a medication to prevent or abort their head pain because they are afraid the medication may pass from their breastmilk to the baby. What medications are safe when breastfeeding?
• 07/11/01 - Bush Addresses "Congress"
  When the 10th Annual International Headache Congress opened on June 29, President George W. Bush became the first U.S. President to go on record addressing the serious nature of Migraine disease and headache disorders.
• 09/02/03 - Butalbital Meds Rebound: Breaking the Cycle
  Dr. Elizabeth Loder and Dr. David Biondi, noted headache and Migraine specialists have outlined a safe, effective, and humane method for withdrawing butalbital-containing medications from patients in a rebound headache cycle from medication overuse.
• 07/8/03 - Buying Meds Online: Buyer Beware!
  Online pharmacies are springing up all over the Internet. Our email is bombarded with spam from these sites offering to sell brand name drugs without prescriptions. When in pain, the temptation to order from these sites can be strong, but these sites can be very dangerous. There is no way of knowing what you'll get and taking meds without a prescription can be hazardous.
• 06/23/03 - Caution: Herbals + Migraine/Cluster Meds Could = Danger
  Findings presented at the American Headache Society annual meeting indicate that some herbal supplements can make Migraine medications ineffective or perhaps toxic.
• 06/07/00 - Celebrating Headache?
  While Headache and Migraine are certainly nothing to celebrate, during the week of June 7-13, 2000,  National Headache Awareness Week is being celebrated. This year's theme is "Making Headway in Headache Relief," which is truly worthy of celebration.
• 05/6/03 - Chronic Daily Headache and Snoring
  A study has shown that snoring is more prevalent in those with chronic daily headaches than in those who experience occasional episodic headaches.
• 9/06/04 - Chronic Pain: Pain Awareness Month
  A Congressional mandate declared 2000 - 2010 as the Decade of Pain Control and Research. September is Pain Awareness Month in this, the fourth year of that decade. This is the month to learn more about pain and it's relief and work to raise the awareness of others.
• 07/03/01 - Chronic Pain: "From Patient To Person"
  The American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA) defines chronic pain as "pain that goes on longer than six months and does not respond to conventional medical treatment." Chronic pain of some kind affects Eighty-six million Americans. It costs industry $51 billion yearly, and costs it's victims and their family unbelievable horrors and even death.
• 07/03/02 - Coenzyme Q10 as a Migraine Preventive
  In a recent trial of coenzyme Q10, 61.3% of the patients treated had a greater than 50% reduction in number of days with Migraine.
• 09/21/01 - Complementary Therapy for Headache/Migraine — Aromatherapy
  From the plants ancient cultures used for healing come essential oils to be used for physical and psychological treatment by aromatherapy. Excellent for relaxing, and a good complementary headache/migraine treatment for some. Peppermint, lavender, jasmine to relax and help relieve your pain.
• 03/29/02 - Congressmen Back Migraine Work
  When the Board of Directors of the World Headache Alliance (WHA) met in Dublin, Ireland in March of 2002, letters form two United States Congressmen were presented, working to improve international government understanding of Migraine Disease issues.
• 10/23/02 - Coping With Busy Doctors
  We're all familiar with the problems of too few doctors, problems communicating with doctors, busy doctors who seem to cut appointments short. How can we get the most from our appointments with these doctors? Here are some tips.
• 06/17/03 - Coral Calcium Supreme Claims Challenged
  The Federal Trade Commission has charged the marketers of a dietary supplement called Coral Calcium Supreme with making false and unsubstantiated claims about the product's health benefits.
• 04/16/02 - Covering All the Bases: Volunteers!
  With National Volunteer Week on the horizon, it's time to thank our site volunteers and to recognize the priceless contributions volunteers make the world over.
• 8/17/04 - DEA and Pain Doctors Come Together on Treatment of Pain
  The DEA, working with dozens of pain management specialists from across the US, has released "Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Health Care Professionals and Law Enforcement Personnel." These FAQs are the result of two years of work to perfect the questions and formulate the most current and accurate answers...
• 8/23/04 - DEA and Pain Docs Release Collaborative FAQ
  In the wake of news stories about prescription drug use and abuse and great concern among patients in pain, dozens of pain experts in collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), recently released a FAQ document intended to provide answers to questions about treating pain while recognizing and addressing problems associated with diversion and abuse of prescription drugs.
• 11/19/04 - DEA Finally Addresses Withdrawal of FAQ
  Interim Policy Statement Issued. Substance or Fluff? In August, the DEA and a group of pain management experts had released a FAQ, "Prescription Pain Medications: Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Health Care Professionals and Law Enforcement Personnel." In October, the DEA removed the FAQ from their site, and asked some others to do the same. Answers have been unavailable since. Now, the DEA has issued an interim policy statement.
• 10/30/02 - A Day In the Life of a Migraineur
  Guest author Deborah Wirtel takes us through Migraineur's typical day. Does this reflect your day or the day of someone you know?
• 05/07/02 - Dell Computer Corp. Now Migraine Aware
  We were concerned about a Dell commercial that exhibited misconceptions about Migraine disease. When contacted, Dell officials were quite responsive and glad to learn about Migraine. Thank you, Dell!
• 09/29/00 - Disability: When Migraines STOP You
  Migraine is a potentially disabling neurological disorder for which there is no cure. The severe pain and other symptoms leave severely affected migraineurs unable to function in everyday situations. Unfortunately, it is an invisible disability for which there is no definitive diagnostic test.
• 03/23/04 - Do Some Antidepressants Deepen Depression and Suicidality?
  The FDA has requested that the manufacturers of nine antidepressants add warnings to their labels that they may worsen depression and suicidality. An ongoing review of clinical trials is being conducted to investigate how to optimize the safe use of these drugs.
• 05/20/03 - Doctors Teaching Doctors
  The Primary Care Network offers a conference entitled Achieving Success in the Treatment of Headache. Led by a team of dedicated specialists, the conference addresses the need for doctors to be better educated about headache disorders.
• 04/18/01 - Don't "Spring" Into a Problem
  Spring! It's a beautiful, wondrous season of birth and rebirth, of daffodils and robins, of looking forward to the summer. It's also a time when it's appropriate to remember some possible headache/migraine triggers of the two seasons. Here are some reminders.
• 04/03/01 - Drug Terminology — What the...?
  Receptors, inhibitors, half-life, neurotransmitters... The deeper the discussion gets, the more confusing the terms. Let's explore some of them!
• 12/04/01 - Effects of Triptans on Migraine Nausea
  Migraine researchers recently released the results of a study on the effects of different triptans on Migraine nausea symptoms. How does your triptan measure up?
• 12/16/03 - Eletriptan: Switching Triptans for Greater Efficacy
  If your triptans aren't working as well as they used to, you frequently need a second dose, or think you may be experiencing rebound headaches from some of the older triptans, you'll definitely want to continue reading about a study conducted with Relpax (eletriptan).
• 02/26/02 - Elvis & LSD? No, DHE for Migraine!
  The stories of LSD, Demerol, Propranolol, and other drugs and incidents were a result of Elvis's Intractable Migraines according to his personal Physician. Elvis, as many of today's Migraineurs, was judged harshly and wrongly. Here's the real story as researched by the National Migraine Association's Michael John Coleman.
• 08/14/02 - EMPOWERMENT Over Headaches/Migraine
  Headaches and Migraine disease make us feel helpless, desolate, and often out of control. With education and support, we can achieve a level of empowerment that allows us to take our lives back and work to control these monster headaches and Migraines.
• 06/20/00 - Encouraging Migraine News!
  For many years, it was thought that abnormally dilated blood vessels caused migraines. Advances in imaging technology now allow scientists to observe the brain during a migraine attack. This technology has led to the discovery that migraine sufferers have unusually excitable brain nerve cells (neurons) that cause this neurobiological disorder.
• 07/05/00 - Encouraging Migraine News! Part II
  The U.S. Headache Consortium has released extensive new guidelines for patients and physicians. The guidelines help physicians give their patients the best care and encourage patients to be their own advocates for care. Finally, formalized recommendations to help migraineurs.
• 12/9/02 - Experts Speak: Dr. Lawrence Robbins on Headache & Migraine
  Dr. Lawrence Robbins, headache and Migraine specialist joined us in our chat room to discuss a wide range of related subjects. Here's the transcript of that conversation.
• 06/11/01 - Exploding Eye: Cluster Headaches
  They've caused their victims to pace the floor in agony, unable to lie down; literally bang their heads against a wall; even, on rare occasions, to commit suicide to escape the pain. They're cluster headaches, and those who suffer from them are often called ClusterHeads.
• 03/09/04 - Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Basics
  Chronic headaches and Migraines, as well as other health conditions, can cause us to miss work, thus creating problems with our employment and employers. As this is a topic of great concern to so many of us, let's take a look at the United States Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) and its potential benefits for us.
• 10/24/03 - FDA and DEA Team Up Against Online Drug Sales
  Law enforcement agencies are teaming up to address the problem of illegal online pharmaceutical sales. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) are joining to form a task force called Operation Gray Lord. The task force is meant to aggressively pursue sellers of prescription narcotics. For the first time, not only do those selling the medications face prosecution, those buying them may find themselves being prosecuted as well.
• 6/22/05 - Fighting Migraine Disease: A New Awareness Initiative in Memoriam
  Today marks the launch of a new Web site and Migraine disease awareness wristbands. The purple wristbands are debossed with the slogan, “FIGHTING MIGRAINE DISEASE.” The idea for this awareness initiative came from the Yahoo! discussion group Migraine after members read about a Migraineur who committed suicide after a horrendous ER visit. You may remember the article about that incident, "This Suicide Was Senseless and Preventable!"
• 12/18/01 - Fiorinal/Fioricet for Headache/Migraine
  Fioricet, Fiorinal, Fioricet with Codeine, and Fiorinal with Codeine are medications discussed quite frequently on our forums and in our chat room. These medications are both a source of relief to some and a source of problems to others. An article by Dr. Stephen Silberstein and Dr. Douglas McCrory in the December, 2001, issue of "Headache: the Journal of Head and Face Pain" provides a great deal of information, results of clinical trials, and the answers to many of our questions.
• 07/1/03 - Frova® for Menstrually Associated Migraine
  Two studies presented at the annual meeting of the American Headache Society showed that Frova (frovatriptan) is effective as a preventive medication for menstrually Associated Migraine. Frova does not seem to induce rebound headaches. It's efficacy is not affected by the use of oral contraceptives.
• 06/11/02 - Frova: Newest Triptan on U.S. Market
  A new member has been born into the triptan family for the treatment of Migraine disease and Cluster Headaches — Frova (Frovatriptan) from the Élan Corporation.  Learn with us and share interesting forum threads.
• 05/27/03 - Grand Central Terminal a Serenity Spa
  In observance of National Headache Awareness Week, Grand Central Terminal will be transformed into a Serenity Spa on June 2nd and 3rd. The event is an educational effort being conducted by Pfizer to help raise awareness among sufferers that they should talk to their doctors about Migraine-specific medications that can relieve the pain and symptoms of Migraine.
• 11/27/01 - GSK "Orange Card" = Lower Med Prices for Some
  GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), one of the world's leading research-based pharmaceutical and healthcare companies, has now taken the lead to offer a significant discount on outpatient medications to seniors and others who are eligible for Medicare and have limited incomes.
• 11/25/02 - Handling Holidays and Head Pain
  If you suffer from tension headaches, cluster headaches, Migraine disease, or any other head pain disorder, getting through the holidays might seem like a nightmare right out of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carole,” but with some advance planning and extra thought, the holidays can be enjoyable.
• 06/11/04 - Have A Migraine? So Does Your Neurologist!
  How many of us have wished that our neurologist were a Migraineur or would have a severe headache so he or she would know how we feel? A new study shows that may be the case more often than we know. In the past year, more than four of five Canadian and Mayo Clinic neurologists have had a headache, 50% have had a Migraine.
• 06/28/04 - Head Pain at Work? Check the Lighting!
  If you find that you have more headaches and Migraines while at work, it may be the office lighting. Traditional office lighting generally presents two potential headache and Migraine triggers: glare from overhead incandescent lighting and flicker from fluorescent lighting tubes.
• 07/31/02 - Head Pain Disorders and Breastfeeding
  It's difficult for a nursing mother to know what's safe to do for head pain. Guest writer Deborah Wirtel talks about what's safe, what's not, and how to find out.
• 10/16/01 - Head Pain: NOT To Be Ignored
  "Better safe than sorry," could never be more true. More people died from Migrainous Stroke last year than were murdered by handguns. Don't take chances!
• 06/03/01 - Headache Awareness Benefits Everyone
  Though research into the cause of headache and migraine disorders and effective treatments has been making great progress, awareness of the facts and impact of these disorders lags sadly behind. There's much each of us can do to help.
• 8/31/04 - Head Pain 101: Diagnosis, Education, Support. Free Email Course.
  Whether it's you or someone you care for who is experiencing headaches and/or Migraines, the three most valuable tools are knowledge, a good medical team, and a good support system. Let's take a look at some basics such as getting a diagnosis, how to educate ourselves, the right doctors, and building a strong, effective support system.
• 01/23/02 - Headache and Migraine Care: As it SHOULD Be
  People with Migraine Disease, Cluster Headaches, and other headache disorders often encounter problems getting proper and respectful treatment. Headache specialists and clinics can be the answer.
• 12/11/01 - Holidays: Fun, Family, Cheer . . . OUCH!
  The winter holidays should be special times filled with people, warmth, and good cheer. Headaches and Migraines can definitely create some problems with our holiday plans. With a bit of planning and working ahead, we can reduce the toll headaches/Migraines can have on this time of year.
• 11/14/00 - Holidays: Fun, Family, Cheer and Pain?
  Holidays . . . they're the best . . . they're the worst. The winter holidays should be special times filled with people, warmth, and good cheer. Headaches can definitely create some problems with our holiday plans. With a bit of planning and working ahead, we can reduce the toll headaches can have on this time of year. 
• 10/06/03 - Hospital Care Quality Differs Markedly by State
  The quality of care at the nation's hospitals varies substantially from state to state, according to the sixth annual HealthGrades Hospital Quality in America Study, released on September 22. The study rates each of the nation's nearly 5,000 hospitals in 26 procedures and diagnoses.
• 11/15/05 - IV Therapy in the Headache Clinic for Refractory Migraine
  Intractable or refractory Migraines are those that don't respond to treatment. This can lead to desperation on the part of the patient and frustration on the part of their physician. Intractable and refractory Migraines need aggressive treatment, but few doctors are prepared to offer such treatment. That's not an indictment of any doctor, simply a statement of fact. With the exception of true headache and Migraine specialists, doctors simply have too many conditions to treat to be expected to have the expertise to treat such cases.
• 11/23/00 - If It Works, Do It!
  Whatever medications or alternative therapies we use to manage our headaches, complementary techniques can come in handy to augment our regular therapies or perhaps to replace them in the case of a mild headache.
• 11/11/03 - Insurance and Your Doctor Disagree. Can You Sue?
  The Supreme Court Will Decide. Two primary issues led to the U.S. Supreme Court's agreeing hear the appeal of two related cases and determine whether patients can sue HMOs for malpractice or other torts in a state court when they refuse to pay for the care recommended by a doctor. The issues were Aetna's refusal to pay for an expensive medication and Cigna's refusal to cover a longer hospital stay than their rules allowed. Can we say, "That sounds familiar?"
• 02/10/03- International Advocates Meet Congress
  International health advocates in the field of headache disorders met in Washington, D.C., February 7 - 10. Education, easing the burden of head pain, and patient advocacy groups were high on their agenda as they visited member of the U.S. Congress.
• 09/25/02 - International Symposium, Topamax Study
  The Migraine Trust is hosting their 14th biennial International Research Symposium, the larges of its kind in the world. Among the presentations: topiramate/Topamax for Migraine prevention.
• 11/23/04 - Is a Needle-Free Imitrex Injection Coming?
  Many triptan users are already familiar with the Imitrex (sumatriptan) StatDose delivery system. It's an auto-injector system that utilizes a short, subcutaneous needle. These injections work more quickly than other forms of triptans, but many triptan users shy away from them because they don't like needles. Last week, Aradigm Corporation announced positive results from a pilot program using their needle-free Intraject® system to deliver subcutaneous sumatriptan injections.
• 10/02/02 - Is it Migraine? Tension? What?
  Here it is, another day . . . and another day of head pain. What to do . . . pain pills . . . migraine abortives . . . a hot shower . . . a decongestant . . . relaxation exercises? It all depends on what kind of headache you have.
• 02/03/04 - Is Migraine a Progressive Brain Disease?
  A study and JAMA article, "Migraine as a Risk Factor for Subclinical Brain Lesions," examine the connection between Migraine disease, brain lesions, cerebral infarction (stroke), and the frequency of Migraine attacks. Some news articles have made this information sound very frightening. It's not, but it is information every Migraineur should take seriously, and keep Migraine prevention and early attack abortion seriously.
• 05/03/04 - Is This Doctor/Patient Relationship Worth Saving?
  The doctor/patient relationship is critical to good health on many levels. The doctor/patient relationship should provide reliable information, the comfort of good medical assistance, a knowledgeable ally with whom to discuss problems presented by our health issues, and a form of validation. We've discussed situations where finding another doctor could be the best solution, but we also need to discuss situations where there's a doctor/patient relationship that's worth working on and improving.
• 09/28/03 - Is Your Pain Being Properly Assessed and Managed?
  Do you ever leave the hospital or emergency room still in pain? Were you asked to assess your level of pain? JCAHO, the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, has Pain Management and Assessment Standards for Hospitals. One standard states, "Patients have the right to appropriate assessment and management of pain."
• 11/25/00 - It's a Headaches, Isn't It?
  Sometimes, a headache is just that — a headache. Other times, a headache can be a symptom of another condition. In addition, there are different kinds of headaches, and treatments for them vary. For these reasons, timely and accurate diagnosis is important if not critical.
• 08/02/00 - It's "Only a Headache."
  Throughout history, whatever humankind didn't understand engendered myths. Migraine and migraine sufferers (Migraineurs) are no exception. Medical science was slow in recognizing that there was such a thing as headache disorders, so the myths were our only explanations for . . . well, for a long, long time. Here are some of the myths, AND the truth to go with them. 
• 01/02/01 - Jeannette says, "Thanks a Million!"
  Our heads may hurt, but our community is healthy. Here are some excerpts from our forum and our "You're Not Alone" visitors' sharings to show what YOU'VE had to say recently.
• 05/02/00 - Kids Get Headaches, Too
  Children suffer the same types of headaches as adults. Sometimes the cause is simple and obvious.  If not, keeping a headache diary and consulting your pediatrician is in order.
• 06/11/04 - Kids With Frequent Head Pain and Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
  Children as young as six-years-old who get frequent headaches may be using over-the-counter pain relievers far more than they should, and often without their parents' knowledge, suggests a study being presented this week at the 46th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Headache Society (AHS).
• 10/13/03 - Lawsuit Claims Inadequate Headache Treatment Resulted In Death
  On this site, we emphasize when your headaches or Migraines are different than your "usual" patterns or if you have the worst head pain you've ever experienced, seek emergency care. Rachel King did just that, but no CAT scan was performed, she was given an injection that did nothing for her pain, handed a prescription, discharged, and the condition that took her life went unnoticed...
• 12/09/03 - Let’s Get Montel’s Attention: A Drive for a Montel Williams Show on Chronic Pain
  How many times have we wished "someone famous" would take up the cause of chronic pain issues including headaches and Migraine disease? Countless times? Countless times! I know some of us have written popular talk show hosts many times, asking them to do a show on our issues, but have had no response. Today, I'm asking every person who reads this to send one email and send me a copy of it... read more about the "Montel Wish."
• 04/15/03 - Let's Study Kids' Head Pain
  Children's head pain can be so difficult, especially when they can't tell us what's wrong. What to do? When to go to the doctor? Let's take a look at the different types that affect children and teens.
• 03/30/04 - Lifting the Burden of Headache Disorders
  Hundreds of millions of people worldwide carry the burden of impaired health, disrupted lives and lost opportunities due to the disabling nature of headache disorders. This burden was highlighted on March 26 in Copenhagen when the World Health Organization announced, in partnership with three major international non-governmental organizations, the launch of their global campaign to reduce the burden of headache worldwide, Lifting the Burden.
• 10/13/03 - Lifting the Global Burden of Head Pain
  At the XI Congress of the International Headache Society (IHS) in Rome, India's Dr. K. Ravishankar spoke of the increased burden of headache and Migraine in developing regions such as India, Africa, Asia, and China and urged the delegates to consider those regions through the collaborative Lifting the Burden Campaign. Efforts such as this serve not only to address the needs of developing regions, but the needs of everyone impacted by headaches and Migraine. Increased awareness helps everyone everywhere.
• 09/25/02 - MacGregor Honored with EGA Award
  In recognition of her outstanding contribution to the cause of Migraine in women, Dr. Anne MacGregor has been presented with the prestigious Elizabeth Garret Anderson (EGA) Award.
• 07/29/03 - MAGNUM Joins Drive for National Pain Care Policy Act
  We reported on the National Pain Care Policy Act of 2003 and the urgent need for support of the Act in a May article. We're delighted to report that MAGNUM, The National Migraine Association has announced their position on and support for the Act as well. Check out their position and drive for the Act and see how each of us can help.
• 09/17/02 - Mainstream News: Now Getting It Right!
  Kudos and thanks to ABCnews.com and reporter Angela Onion for a thoroughly researched, concisely reported story about the progress in Migraine research and treatment and the hope it brings us all.
• 11/03/03 - Medical ID Jewelry Speaks for You When You Can't Speak for Yourself.
  In an emergency, medical personnel need to know our medical history, what conditions we have, and what medications we take. This information can be vital to saving our lives. Yet, if we're unable to speak, who speaks for us? There are a variety of medical ID systems/tags available. From simple and inexpensive, to the more expensive, beautiful gold ID's, there's something available to fit everyone's budget and taste.
• 8/16/05 - Medication Overuse Headache: What's a person to do?
  Unfortunately, it seems that any medication we take for headache or Migraine relief has the potential to cause medication overuse headache if used more than two or three days a week. We need to learn as much about it as possible. Let’s take a look at some of the important issues surrounding medication overuse headache and its implications.
• 10/30/01 - Medications Are Medications
  Consumers need to remember that over-the-counter medications are still medications. Headache/Migraine experts are concerned that direct-to-consumer advertising of OTC medications don't provide the necessary warnings about OTC's and urge proper and responsible use of these medications.
• 2/8/05 - Medications for Headache and Migraine Prevention
  For those of us with frequent headaches or Migraine attacks, preventive medications are often a good option. There are over 100 medications that can be used and nearly endless combinations of them. Astonishingly, none of these medications were actually developed for headache or Migraine prevention. They were developed for other conditions, and patients taking them noticed a decrease in the frequency of their headaches and Migraines.
• 05/14/02 - Meds: Addressing Confusion and Fears
  Side effects, interactions with foods and other drugs, negative effects on other health conditions ... These are a few concerns about medications explored here. What can you do? Educate yourself.
• 05/29/01 - Midrin or Imitrex?
  A recent study compared Midrin and Imitrex taken at first sign of attack. For mild to severe migraine attacks, is one better than the other? Should both be considered first-line drugs?
• 10/28/03 - Migraine: An Easier Way To Diagnose?
  The "ID Migraine" validation study introduces a three-question screener. Based on figures from the year 2000 United States Census, there are more than 32 million Migraineurs in the U.S. alone. Based on today's World Population Clock provided by the U.S. Census Bureau, there are 763,465,377 Migraineurs around the world (12% of the population). One of the biggest problems facing Migraineurs is being properly diagnosed. Now, researchers have introduced a simple three-question Migraine Screener questionnaire.
• 12/28/04 - Migraine and Stroke Risk: The Study Results
  Those of you who have followed my work over the last few years are bound to have seen me warn that Migraine disease, especially with prolonged Migraine attacks, increases our risk of stroke. MAGNUM, the National Migraine Association, has taken this position for over a decade. Our position was based on studies that were quite legitimate, but not very well known, as well as unfortunate anecdotal evidence from Migraineurs who had experienced Migrainous strokes and turned to us for education and support.
• 03/04/03- Migraine Aware Art at Italian Institute
  Migraine Awareness Art Exhibits raise public awareness while giving Migraineur artists a forum to express themselves. Let’s take a look at the recent Exhibit at the Italian Cultural Institute in Washington, D.C., organized by MAGNUM.
• 10/19/00 - Migraine Awareness Week In Canada
  To emphasize the plight of Migraineurs, as well as the impact on the whole of society, Canada will be observing Migraine Awareness Week November 6-12, 2000. The Migraine Association of Canada is quite capably coordinating the observation.
• 3/15/05 - “Migraine Calculator” Unveiled: Shows Benefits of Treating Employee Migraines
  Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) unveiled a new “Migraine Calculator” at the Institute for Health and Productivity Management conference in Orlando, Florida on March 10. The calculator is a web-based tool designed to help employers estimate the incidence of Migraine, its impact on their work force, and the potential net savings of helping employees get treatment.
• 06/06/04 - Migraine... the Pain Is Real. So is the treatment. Get Diagnosed!
  In an effort to educate the public about the impact and severity of Migraine disease, and support America's 32 million Migraine sufferers, the National Headache Foundation (NHF) has declared June 6-12, 2004 as National Headache Awareness Week (NHAW). This year’s theme is "Migraine... The Pain is Real. So is the Treatment. Get Diagnosed."
• 09/05/01 - Migraine Treatment Gets a Report Card
  Results of the American Migraine Study II reveal "The economic and public health implications of these disability data are staggering...These data underscore the need for health care professionals to renew their commitment to recognizing and effectively managing this important health problem."
• 05/16/00 - Migraine: What IS it?
  Is Migraine just a very bad headache? No? Then what IS it?
• 05/09/00 - Migraine's Impact
  Migraine is more than a nuisance. It is, to varying extents, disabling. Attacks cause migraineurs to be unable to work, care for their families, or meet other responsibilities.
• 03/06/01 - Migraines, not really "headaches"
  When people who don't have migraines don't understand, it can be a problem. Let's start by realizing that migraines really aren't headaches.
• 06/11/04 - Migraines Often Triggered By Change In The Weather
  Migraineurs may be able to avoid triggering the excruciating attacks by avoiding some triggers, but there's little they can do about one of the most common Migraine triggers: the weather. Half of Migraineurs were sensitive to weather variables, but most were wrong in their prediction of which climate variable was the culprit, according to findings of a recent study.
• 03/25/04 - Migraines Push Woman To Lethal Overdose
  Dawn Lewis-Shepherd suffered severe Migraine attacks every two or three days. She'd been to a Migraine clinic, but was told there was nothing more they could do to help. Thus, she was left with her debilitating pain, two children to raise on her own, and only multiple pain medications for her Migraines. Sadly, her mother found her on her bedroom floor, dead, with empty prescription packages around her. What's the ultimate cost of Migraine?
• 03/21/01 - Migraineurs As Artists
  The National Headache Foundation has announced their third annual Migraine Masterpieces Art Contest. This year's theme is "Images of Migraine." The contest is open to all diagnosed migraineurs in the U.S., and is meant to raise awareness of migraine as a treatable illness.
• 06/3/03 - Migraineurs Keep Working Despite Pain
  A recent HarrisInteractive Poll shows that the majority of Migraineurs “tough out” Migraines at work and that too many Migraineurs are still not getting the best and most appropriate care.
• 8/9/05 - More of the Genes Responsible for Migraine Discovered!
  An international team lead by the Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) has announced a breakthrough that has the potential to bring big changes to the lives of Migraineurs everywhere. By studying 12,245 non-identical twins with Migraine, 60% of whom were female, to track genetic markers, the team has been able to identify chromosomes responsible for different Migraine symptoms. The identification of these genetic markers is important because it can eventually lead to tests to diagnose Migraine disease and more effective medications.
• 03/17/03 - More Stress Can = More Head Pain
  In today’s world, many of us are experiencing increased stress and anxiety. Stress can trigger tension headaches and make a Migraineur more susceptible to their Migraine triggers. Here are some suggestions for reducing our stress and anxiety.
• 3/22/05 - A Mother's Plea: The Dangers of Acetaminophen Overdose
  How many of us have taken medication for a headache or Migraine, vomited almost immediately, then taken more medication? A 17-year-old girl from Oklahoma turned to Tylenol for Migraine relief, accidentally took too much, and paid for that accident with her life. Since then, her mother has been working diligently to educate people that over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol can be every bit as dangerous as prescription medications.
• 02/13/01 - Narcotic OxyContin: Savior or Killer?
  It's a life saver for those with chronic pain, but now it's become a favorite of drug abusers, and it's killing people. How will this affect those who legitimately need it?
• 6/6/05 - National Headache Awareness Week 2005
  The National Headache Foundation (NHF) has declared June 5-11, 2005, as National Headache Awareness Week (NHAW) in an effort to educate the public about the impact and severity of Migraine disease, and support America's 32 million Migraine sufferers. This year’s theme is "Stop Migraines Before They Stop You."
• 4/19/05 - National Menstrual Migraine Coalition Formed
  The National Headache Foundation (NHF) has announced the formation of the National Menstrual Migraine Coalition to raise awareness of a distinct, Migraine condition, estimated to affect nearly 13 million women in the U.S.
• 05/13/03 - National Pain Care Policy Act of 2003
  The National Pain Care Policy Act, which has been introduced in the House of Representatives, would mandate many actions essential to ensuring proper treatment for people in pain. Please help us get it passed!
• 07/20/03 - Neurontin: Good Medicine or Bad News?
  There's been some controversy lately about Neurontin (gabapentin), a medication that is being prescribed off-label for prevention of cluster headaches and Migraine attacks. It's important to recognize what the controversy actually entails and be able to separate it from the positive clinical information about Neurontin.
• 04/13/04 - A New Class of Abortive Is in Development
  Researchers in Europe and the United States are at work studying a new abortive medication for Migraine treatment. The drug, labeled BIBN4096 BS is a calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) antagonist. Serum levels of CGRP are elevated in patients with cluster headaches and Migraine. Results of a first clinical trial are promising. Of special note is that this medication may be safe for patients with heart disease.
• 03/10/03- New FDA Standards for Supplements
  A proposed FDA regulation would help consumers get accurately labeled and unadulterated dietary supplements by requiring CGMPs in their Manufacturing, packing and holding. This action will also permit more informative research on dietary supplements.
• 09/09/03 - New Migraine Abortive for Adolescents
  Adolescents, ages 12-17, who suffer from Migraine disease and Cluster headaches now have a new abortive tool in their arsenal as September 1 marked the launch of a new abortive medication. Adult Migraineurs and cluster headache sufferers have long benefited from the use of Imigran (aka Imitrex, sumatriptan) 20mg Nasal Spray. Now Imigran 10mg Nasal Spray has been licensed for use by adolescents, making it the first and only triptan class medication approved for patients in this age range.
• 1/11/05 - New Migraine Treatment Guidelines for Kids?
  Treating children and adolescents with Migraine disease presents even more challenges than treating adult Migraineurs. Even once the diagnosis is made, how do you treat children and adolescents with Migraine disease? Is it safe for them to take the abortive medications adults take, such as the triptans? Are preventive medications prescribed for children?
• 01/27/03 - New to Our Site: Ask the Clinician
  Dr. John Claude Krusz, recognized expert in the fields of headache and Migraine treatment and pain management will be answering questions submitted by our readers. Dr. Krusz will answer the questions, and the answers will be posted on our site.
• 07/28/03 - New Tool: Migraine Attack Profile (MAP)
  The National Headache Foundation is the first to introduce a new tool to help doctors match patients and drugs. The tool is the Migraine Attack Profile (MAP). When utilized by Migraineurs, MAP helps provide doctors with valuable information to help them work with Migraineurs to select preventive and abortive medications.
• 07/21/03 - NHF Announces Migraine Masterpieces '03
  From more than 400 entries, the judges of the National Headache Foundation's (NHF) have chosen four prize-winning entries and a total of 25 entries for exhibition in the fourth Migraine Masterpieces national art contest and exhibition. The winners were announced today in conjunction with the unveiling of the Chicago exhibition, "My Life With Migraine." If you're in the Chicago area, you can view the exhibition at the John Hancock Center at 875 North Michigan Avenue from July 22 to July 27.
• 02/24/03- NHF Art Contest: "My Life With Migraine"
  Entries are now being accepted for the National Headache Foundation’s fourth Migraine Masterpieces national art contest and exhibition, "My Life With Migraine.” The contest allows Migraineurs to express their experiences through art.
• 05/28/02 - NHF’S National Headache Awareness Week
  Each year, the National Headache Foundation (NHF) celebrates the first week of June as National Headache Awareness Week, each year with a different theme and focus. This year, the NHF has chosen “Follow the Three ‘R’s’ of Migraine Management.”  Learn with us and share interesting forum threads.
• 05/27/03 - NHF Headache Awareness Week 2003
  The National Headache Foundation has declared June 1 - 7, 2003 as National Headache Awareness Week with the theme, "Take Control of your Headaches. Take Control of your Life."
• 04/12/04 - NHF Honors Teri Robert and Others At Annual Event
  The National Headache Foundation (NHF) will present its prestigious Patient Partners Award to Teri Robert, Journalist and Patient Advocate, About, Inc. Division of Primedia, Inc. at its eighteenth annual fund raising benefit on Saturday, April 17, 2004 at the Waldorf=Astoria in New York City. The Patient Partners award is in recognition of Teri's educational efforts and tireless advocacy on behalf of sufferers of headache and migraine.
• 02/03/04 - NHF Presents First Annual Headache Research Summit
  In an effort to support and advance research into the diagnosis and treatment of headache, the National Headache Foundation (NHF) will host its 1st Annual Headache Research Summit February 10, 2004 in Rancho Mirage, California.
• 04/09/02 - Not as hopeless as we sometimes think
  When Migraine Disease or other headache disorders threaten to overwhelm, take a look at some of the advances made in treatment during the last ten years. It's pretty amazing how far we've come and what that means for the future.
• 02/06/01 - Noteworthy: January, 2001.  Short items worthy of interest 
  Diagnosis Delay in Cluster Headaches, Chronic Daily Headache Increases Risk of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, Medication Misuse and Insomnia, Elderly Patients = Management Challenges.
• 09/09/03 - An Option to Explore for Preventing Menstrual Migraine
  Dr. Elizabeth Loder and Dr. David Biondi, noted headache and Migraine specialists have outlined a safe, effective, and humane method for withdrawing butalbital-containing medications from patients in a rebound headache cycle from medication overuse.
• 5/13/05 - A Blooming Onion to Larry King Live!
  This week, I have a problem. I've thought long and hard about the Larry King Live show from April 26 that dealt with Migraine Disease, read and reread the transcript of the show, and read all of your feedback. While I'd like to give them a Rose for doing a show on the subject, I'd also like to give them an Onion for some of the content of and fallout from the show. Thus, I've combined the two and present Larry King Live with a Blooming Onion! Some of you have asked what I thought of the show, and I've asked you to be patient. There's been a discussion going on in our forum, and I didn't want my opinion to influence it in any way...Whenever an effort is made to educate the public about Migraine disease, I applaud that effort and support it. That's why I promoted this show in advance. I still thank them for wanting to do the show, but wish it had been done better.
• 3/18/05 - ONION! FDA Seizes PRESCRIBED meds from Reimportation Program
  Today marks the beginning of a new series of blog entries. I'm going to call them "Roses or Onions." I'll award a rose to people, organizations or events that deserve a thank you or praise; onions to those that deserve a good kick in the behind! Here's our first ONION,: You may have seen me warn of the dangers of ordering prescription medications from online pharmacies that don't require a prescription from your physician. That has proven dangerous in some cases. However, many people feel the FDA has gone too far this time.
• 7/15/05 - An Onion to the FDA: Let our DOCTORS practice medicine for us!
  An "Onion" is presented to a person, organization, or event that deserves a kick in the butt. Today, I present an onion in the form of two questions -- Why doesn't the FDA let our doctors determine what's best for us and practice medicine? Why do they think we must be protected from ourselves? Here's why I as these questions. After acquiring supposed new information that serious and potentially fatal adverse reactions can occur when Palladone (hydromorphone hydrochloride) extended release capsules are taken together with alcohol, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has asked Purdue Pharma L.P., the makers of the drug, to withdraw it from the market.
• 4/22/05 - An ONION to the Producers of NBC's Today Show
  An "Onion" is presented to a person, organization, or event that deserves a kick in the butt. Today, I am presenting an Onion to the producers of NBC's Today Show. We all know the problems we encounter because our headaches and Migraine disease are invisible illnesses. This involves polycystic kidney disease, another invisible disease. The best way to explain why, is to share with you the email I just sent to them.
• 6/16/05 - An Onion to a Professor; A Rose to a Court
  We have a both an Onion and a Rose this week, both from the same situation. The Onion goes to George Mason University constitutional law professor Nelson Lund who refused to make accommodations for a Carin Constantine, a Migraineur who had a severe Migraine during the final exam for his class. It caused her to fail the exam and the course. Carin sued Professor Lund, the dean, and the university. An Alexandria federal judge threw out her case last year. Here's where the Rose comes in.
• 11/18/05 - An Onion to Tom Cruise!
  Watching television this evening, I saw a commercial for the DVD of War of the Worlds with Tom Cruise. Usually, that's the type of movie I'd put on our Blockbuster list, but not this time. For me, it's a matter of principle. I'll not watch another movie in which Mr. Cruise is cast. I have a long memory and was even taking notes the morning of June 24 when he was talking with Matt Lauer on the Today Show and said, "There is no such thing as a chemical imbalance," among other things. Excuse me?...
• 06/19/01 - Orgasm & Headache/Migraine
  Does the "Big O" cause or cure headaches and migraine? We've all heard the old joke, "Not tonight, dear. I have a headache." Right? Surprisingly enough, for some people, there definitely is a correlation between sexual activity and headache or migraine.
• 04/23/02 - Our Poets Show "You're NOT Alone!"
  For release, to raise awareness of headache disorders, and just for fun, our poets wrote and showed "You're NOT Alone!" Here are all the entries from our second annual contest and the announcement of this years awardees.
• 09/07/00 - Over-the-Counter Drugs and Headache
  Headaches can be so intolerable that it's easy to think that only prescription medications will work to relieve the pain, but over-the-counter (OTC) headache medications are often very helpful, and may be all you need for many headaches. Especially when taken early, these medications can be quite effective. 
• 09/16/03 - OxyContin: News and Thoughts
  OxyContin is back in the news, and some would limit its availability, even for those in pain. There was a period of time when you couldn't watch a news broadcast or visit a news website without hearing or reading something about the issues associated with OxyContin®, it's abuse, and related issues. For many months, it seemed that all the controversy had died down. Actually, that wasn't the case, but it seemed to have lost it's charm in the media -- temporarily. Recently, it's back in the news, and the news is mixed for legitimate patients with chronic pain.
• 04/02/02 - OxyContin Problem— Not That Complicated
  This Law Enforcement Issue Should NOT Drive Medical Policy Toward Those In Pain. MAGNUM and About team up to provide vital information on accurate statistics, Congressional & Public hearings, and much more of concern to ALL chronic pain patients.
• 05/09/01 - OxyContin: The Saga Continues!
  What's true, what's not, who's being hurt? While there is no denying that it's diversion and abuse are a problem, there is another problem of at least equal concern — the needs of people truly suffering from chronic pain and in need of OxyContin for pain relief. 
• 08/14/01 - OxyContin®: What's the REAL Issue?
  Does the "Oxy" controversy endanger the rights of legitimate patients? Who is most responsible for the abuse of OxyContin®. Discussion from the press, comments from our members, and your chance to tell us what YOU think.
• 11/03/03 - Patient -Focused Care Pledge Adopted
  The American College of Chest Physicians has adopted a revolutionary Patient-Focused Care Pledge as the foundation for an initiative specifically designed to develop interdisciplinary models of patient-focused care for use in hospitals, health-care systems, and health-care education programs around the country. It is hoped that other medical specialty organizations will follow their lead.
• 5/30/05 - Partners for Prescription Assistance
  Help finding medications when you can't afford them. More than one in five adults ages 18 to 64 was uninsured in 2003. 11.4 percent of children under 18 were without insurance. More than eight out of 10 uninsured people come from working families. 45 million Americans were uninsured in 2003. A new program, Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA), is one of the most impressive I've seen.
• 04/25/01 - Poetry Gives Judges a Headache!
  Check the stats on the impact of headache/migraine AND view all the entries in our First Annual "You're Not Alone" Poetry Contest. The poems submitted were all so marvelous that choosing gave the judges a headache!
• 07/31/01 - Poison Your Migraine?
  When many people hear the words Botulinum Toxin, the first thing they think of is botulism, an often fatal form of food poisoning. Botulism is caused by some strains of Clostridium botulinum, bacteria that is generally found in badly canned foods. In recent years, however, scientists have discovered that a certain strain of Clostridium botulinum can safely be used as a drug to prevent migraine attacks.
• 7/19/05 - Pregnancy and Migraine Disease
  Nearly 33 million Americans suffer from migraine, and the majority of those are women. It stands to reason that many women in their childbearing years will suffer from migraine disease. What does a pregnant mother-to-be do to treat her disease? It's confusing. Even our doctors often don't have answers.
• 11/7/05 - Preventing Chronic TTH and Migraine With Namenda
  Another medication can now be added to the growing list of medications shown to be effective for prevention of headaches and Migraine attacks. Namenda (memantine), approved for the treatment of moderate to severe dementia of the Alzheimer's Disease type has been shown effective in a small, open-label trial.
• 08/8/03 - Preventing Dehydration, Preventing Headache and Migraine
  We're always trying to identify headache and Migraine triggers in hopes of avoiding as many of them as possible. Dehydration is a know trigger and perhaps one of the easiest to avoid. Since summer heat increases the risk of dehydration, this story and accompanying video are especially timely for all of us!
• 08/28/01 - Profile: Paula Ann Garber, Migraineur
  From 12-year-old "headacher" to grandmother and novelist: Paula has coped with migraines, vowing not to let them control her life. She is now finishing her second novel, which will be published next year.
• 01/09/01 - Providers Ordered To Treat Pain
  JCAHO's new Pain Management Standards went into effect Jan. 1, requiring accredited organizations to properly assess and manage pain or risk losing accreditation. The guidelines state, "Patients have the right to appropriate assessment and management of pain."
• 11/7/00 - Puff, Puff, Puff — Throb, Throb, Throb
  Headaches and Smoking: Another Reason To Quit. We all know intellectually that smoking isn't good for us. Headache sufferers have another incentive — smoking can trigger headaches. In addition, it makes headaches more difficult to treat and may make our treatments less effective.
• 7/4/05 - Quiz. Depression: Truth or Misconception?
  There are quite a few forum discussions about depression. That makes sense since depression and pain disorders such as Migraine disease and other head pain disorder often go hand-in-hand. As with Migraine disease and head pain disorders, depression is surrounded by myths and misconceptions. Do you know the truth about depression? Take this short quiz to see if you know the truth about depression or if you still believe the common misconceptions.
• 5/24/05 - Quiz: Do you know the truth about Migraine?
  Do you know the truth about Migraine? Take this short quiz to see if you know the truth about Migraine disease or if you still believe the common misconceptions.
• 12/27/04 - Quiz: Is Your Doctor Right for You?
  Is your doctor right for you? We all know the right doctor is essential. There's always a great deal of discussion on our forums about doctors and how to cope with issues surrounding doctors. Some are great. Some don't know a headache or Migraine from a hangnail. It's seldom easy. Take our quiz to see if your doctor is right for you or if you should be looking for a new doctor!
• 3/29/05 - Quiz: Match the Symptoms to the Head Pain Type
  Take this 10-question quiz and see if you can match the symptoms to the type of head pain likely to cause them. As you answer each question, it will be scored and the right answer displayed. A great way to test what you do know and learn what you don't!
• 8/29/05 - Quiz. Rebound / Medication Overuse Headache: What's a person to do?
  Everyone who has headaches or Migraine disease needs to know about rebound, aka medication overuse headache (MOH) because knowing about it in advance could save us a great deal of pain. How much do YOU know about MOH? Take our quiz and find out.
• 1/25/05 - Quiz: Test Your Headache and Migraine Vocabulary
  Ipsilateral, pericranial, aphasia... Do you remember what those terms are from reading them here? Want to test your headache and Migraine vocabulary? Take this fun and educational quiz!
• 07/19/00 - Relief Grows . . . With Understanding
  From the annual meeting of the American Headache Society, it's evident that migraine is not the only headache for which progress in treatment methods is being made. A prevailing observation was that options for headache relief grow in pace with understanding in the medical community. 
• 08/17/03 - Report: Botox for Headache, Largest Study Yet
  Botulinum toxin type A, brand name Botox®, is an effective preventative therapy for headache and Migraine pain in chronic sufferers, according to the largest study performed to date, presented at the 45th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Headache Society (AHS) in June.
• 12/22/00 - RESOLVED: Fewer Headaches in 2001
  As we approach 2001, here are suggestions of what we can do for ourselves to have fewer headaches in the new year.
• 08/28/02 - Roller Coaster Headache — Literally!
  Roller coasters may be the stars of amusement parks, but for Marianne Robards, a roller coaster caused a brain injury and started her on a long path of pain and frustration.
• 4/8/05 -A Rose to: Dr. David Biondi
  Continuing in my blog series of "Roses or Onions" (a rose to people, organizations or events that deserve a thank you or praise; onions to those that deserve a good kick in the behind) this week, I'm pleased to present a rose to Dr. David Biondi of Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Boson Massachusetts. Not long ago, one of our forum members was looking for help in the Boston area. I suggested Dr. Biondi. Yesterday, I was thrilled to see her post on our forum.
• 10/28/05 - A ROSE to the NCPIE
  Medications are wonderful. They can vastly improve our quality of life. Patient education about medications is crucial, however for the effective and safe use of them. Therefore, I am pleased today to present a Rose to the National Council for Patient Informaiton and Education. The NCPIE works all year to educate patients, but we think of them more in October when they sponsor Talk About Prescriptions Month
• 8/12/05 - A ROSE to Robert J. Cihak for his column!
  This morning, my husband forwarded me a column entitled "The War Against Pain-treating Drugs: Another Failed Prohibition" from the Jewish World Review. Over the last few years, we've seen the situation for chronic pain patients deteriorate severely -- fall-out from the so-called "war on drugs." We've had many forum discussions on this topic, and some of us feel part of the problem is the decreasing expectation for people to take responsibility for their own actions.
• 10/28/05 - A ROSE to the US Dept. of HHS and the FDA
  It's a Two-Rose Friday! During Talk About Prescriptions Month, we've looked at several issues related to safe use of medications. Following this track, today I also present a rose to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the FDA. They have also been working on a campaign to alert consumers to some of these issues. A primary issue is the safe use of over-the-conter medications. For this campaign, they've developed a series of educational posters.
• 7/1/05 - Roses to Yahoo! Migraine, AHS, Cathleen Henning
  Our "Roses" go to people or organizations deserving thanks and praise. Today is a great day because I find myself in the position of awarding not one, but three Roses! For building awareness that Migraine is a disease, not a headache, Roses go to the Yahoo! discussion group "Migraine," the American Headache Society, and Cathleen Henning.
• 02/12/02 - Rx for Overall Health: Friendship
  "Friends--if supportive and encouraging--can increase our hope when dealing with illness and trauma. And increased hope is associated with higher levels of immune system functioning," states Dr. Gerald Ellison.
• 04/8/03 - SARS: A Literal and Figurative Headache
  An outbreak Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is suddenly presenting a puzzling health crisis in several areas of the world. What is it? How is it treated? We explore this illness.
• 8/3/04 - SSDI or SSI? What are the differences and basics?
  The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. There is often confusion about which of these programs is most appropriate for an individual. Let's take a look at the basics about both programs.
• 12/21/04 - Safety of Celebrex and Naproxen Questioned
  An ongoing clinical trial investigating a new use of the Cox-2 inhibitor Celebrex (celecoxib) to prevent colon polyps, which was being conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and Pfizer, Inc., has been discontinued because of an increased risk of cardiovascular events in patients taking Celebrex versus those taking a placebo. This follows closely behind...
• 01/29/02 - Saving Meds $$: Novartis & Pfizer Act
  Bravo! Novartis had launched the Novartis Care Card. Pfizer has launched the Pfizer for Living Share Card™. These programs offer meds at lower prices for Medicare-eligible patients without prescription insurance coverage.
• 7/20/04 - Saving On and With Over-the-Counter Medications
  Which would you rather pay for the same tablet: $0.157 or $0.080? We all know the cost of prescription medications adds up quickly, but have you ever added up the cost of any over-the-counter meds you're using? They add up, too, but there are ways to keep those costs down. By shopping smarter for OTC's and checking to see if any of our prescription medications can be replaced by less expensive OTC meds, we may be able to lower our costs.
• 03/05/02 - Second Annual "You're Not Alone" Poetry Contest
  April is National Poetry Month. Once again we are sponsoring a poetry contest to allow "headachers" and those who care about them an opportunity to creatively express their thoughts and feelings and to share them. Submit now. The deadline is March 28, 2002.
• 05/15/01 - "Sinus" Headache May Be Migraine
  In a recent study, a startling 97% of the participants, self-described sinus headache sufferers, actually had symptoms consistent with migraine attacks as defined by the criteria of the International Headache Society.
• 06/11/04 - Sinuses Giving You a Headache? It's Probably a Migraine.
  If you've tried various over-the-counter sinus medications to relieve your sinus headaches to no avail, there may be a good reason: chances are you don't have a sinus headache at all. Nearly 9 in 10 people with sinus headache symptoms likely are suffering from Migraines.
• 11/20/02 - Smokers Do It More Frequently and Severely
  Smoking . . . not smoking . . . the rights of non-smokers . . . the rights of smokers. Smoking has become a huge health and social issue. When it comes to first- or second-hand smoke and headaches and Migraine, there is no doubt that smoking is detrimental indeed.
• 10/03/03 - South Honored with 2003 EGA Award
  Valerie South, R.N., has been awarded the 2003 Elizabeth Garret Anderson Award, named for the first female physician and the first woman mayor in England. The award is to recognize a woman whose work over time has made an extraordinary contribution to relieving those affected by the burden of headache pain. Mrs. South is recognized as a worldwide leading advocate for those with headache and Migraine.
• 9/13/04 - Steps To a Head Pain Sufferer Friendly Home
  It's bad enough that we have to deal with unfriendly environments when we're away from home. Our homes should be our refuge, the place that's safest and most comfortable for us. Let's take a look at some of the ways we can make our homes more head pain sufferer friendly.
• 12/21/00 - Stratified Care = Better Outcome
  A new study shows that stratified care, based on the level of disability a migraine is causing, results in better relief.
• 08/23/00 - Stress, Overworked Muscles, Tension Headache!
  Headache is the pain most common to humans. Of the different forms of headache, tension headache is the most common. Check out the symptoms, causes, and how to get relief.
• 01/13/04 - Study Links Chronic Pain to Signals in the Brain
  For centuries, doctors have tried to find effective ways to treat chronic pain, a devastating neurological disorder that affects almost 90 million Americans. A new study shows that two proteins in the brain trigger the neuronal changes that amplify and sustain this type of pain. The finding may lead to new ways of treating chronic pain.
• 08/07/02 - Studying Similar Neurological Disorders
  For some time, doctors have observed that several episodic neurological disorders such as paroxysmal dyskinesia, periodic paralysis, episodic ataxia, epilepsy, hemiplegic Migraine and common Migraine share some common triggers. Research data has just been released to support this observation.
• 2/17/05 - This Suicide Was Senseless and Preventable!
  Janice was doing everything "right." She was seeing a neurologist, taking preventives, using triptans as soon as a Migraine attack began, using rescue medications sparingly when triptans failed. Still, about once a month, even with her triptans and rescue medications, a Migraine would spiral out of control, and she’d go to the ER.
• 09/23/03 - Sumatriptan (Imitrex) Safe During Pregnancy?
  GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacturer of sumatriptan (Imitrex, Imigran) set up a registry in 1996 to gather data regarding prenatal exposure to sumatriptan. After seven years of gathering data, a report was recently presented at the 11th Congress of the International Headache Society (IHS). Although not yet conclusive, the results are encouraging.
• 01/16/02 - Supplements: FDA Questions "It-Won't-Hurt" Philosophy
  Because conflicting information abounds, and many people tend to think, "Even if a product may not help me, it at least won't hurt me," the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has set up a collection of tips and resources to help dietary supplement consumers become "savvy supplement users."
• 09/10/02 - Support Groups: Integral to Good Care
  Support groups where "headachers" meet to share experiences and information while offering each other support can be a vital part of health care for some. Guest author Deborah Wirtel reporting.
• 03/12/02 - Support: When people "don't get it!"
  Migraineurs face a very distressing problem — entirely too many people don’t understand us and our disease. Marriages, families, friendships, and careers are sometimes destroyed. Education can make a difference. Here are resources to help.
• 12/9/03 - Teen Expelled for Advil at School: Good Sense or Rules Run Wild?
  Amanda Stiles, a sophomore at Parkway High in Shreveport, Louisiana, never gave a second thought to carrying Advil in her purse for her frequent headaches. At least she didn't until a few days ago when she was expelled from school for one year when the Advil was discovered in her purse by a teacher.
• 07/14/03 - Teenager Dies from Acetaminophen Overdose
  On June 24, 2003, 17-year-old Kellie Lynn McWilliams was suffering with pain from a Migraine attack and turned to Tylenol for pain relief. In pain and probably tired and groggy, Kellie took approximately 20 of the 500 mg acetaminophen capsules. That translates to ingesting 10 grams of acetaminophen; the maximum recommended within 24 hours is four grams. This led to her death. How can we take meds safely to prevent such tragedies?
• 02/24/04 - Tennis Champion Monica Seles: Acing Migraine Pain
  For the first time, Monica Seles, one of the world’s most accomplished women’s tennis players, is sharing her story about her toughest opponent, Migraine disease, as part of a nationwide educational initiative. The campaign called Acing Migraine Pain, is designed to help raise awareness of the condition and encourage those who may be suffering from frequent severe headaches to seek diagnosis for what could actually be Migraines, an often debilitating condition.
• 01/30/01 - Tension-Type Headache, Most Common of All
  They're often described as feeling "like a vise around your head," and they account for more than three-quarters of all headaches. Exploring TTH, tension-type headaches.
• 07/19/01 - Test YOUR Headache/Migraine
  Now there's a tool available designed to help you measure the impact of your headache/migraine and put the information into a format that is readily usable by our doctors. The Headache Impact Test™ (HIT) is available online or in a paper format now in use in many physicians' offices.
• 11/07/03 - Tested Imported Pharmaceuticals: 88% Counterfeit
  With more and more people relying on prescription medications and prices, especially in the United States, so high, more and more of us are drawn to the emails we get and the ads we see for online pharmacies. It's the online pharmacies that require no prior prescription that should be avoided, regardless of their enticing advertising. A recent FDA/U.S. Customs investigation revealed that 88% of the imported pharmaceuticals examined contain unapproved drugs, many of which could be harmful.
• 01/09/02 - They Said WHAT?! "Whoops" from 2001
  Headache disorders and Migraine Disease aren't always easy to treat. As "headachers," we know this, and we realize that sometimes we're given information and advice that's incorrect. During 2001, we heard and read some real doozies, so to start the new year, I'm going to share them with you and debunk them at the same time.
• 03/17/03 - Third Annual "You're Not Alone" Poetry Contest
  April is National Poetry Month. Once again we are sponsoring a poetry contest to allow "headachers" and those who care about them an opportunity to creatively express their thoughts and feelings and to share them. Submit now. The deadline is April 11, 2003.
• 01/23/01 - This Week's Focus? YOU!
  About Headaches/Migraine is online to provide information and support to people who have to endure headaches and for those who care about them. Now that the site has been going for several months, it's time to get input from YOU about how we're doing. So, don't be bashful. Click that link, and tell me!
• 04/28/03 - Three Years and Still, You’re NOT Alone!
  The judging is complete for our Third Annual "You're NOT Alone" poetry contest. The judging is tougher each year. Here are the results — the winning poems and all the poems entered this year.
• 08/21/02 - Time for a New Doctor?
  There are times when it's something to consider. If your doctor is dispensing incorrect information, your communication with him/her isn't good, or if your treatment isn't progressing, it may be time. Remember, it’s your health — YOU’RE the boss!
• 12/30/03 - Tips for a 2004 With Less Head Pain
  Can you believe that 2003 is over? I don't know about you, but I've gotten a bit lax about some things such as my Migraine diary, grabbing a soda instead of a glass of water, not getting enough sleep, not always taking all my daily supplements. Yikes! All of that really adds up when I type it out. It's been a rough year for many of us, so I thought I'd share my list of things I vow to do in 2004 to do my part for my health.
• 06/23/03 - Tips for Handling Migraine In the Workplace
  Migraine can strike at any time, and two-thirds of Migraineurs "struggle through it" to stay at work. Dr. Jan Lewis Brandes, a headache and Migraine specialist, offers some tips for handling Migraine in the Workplace.
• 12/30/02 - Tips To Avoid or Reduce Head Pain
  There are things we can do to reduce or avoid episodes. This gives us some control over our disorders and restores some of the control over our lives of which those disorders seem to rob us. Let’s see how to give some of that head pain the boot!
• 06/01/04 - Tips To Avoid or Reduce Summer Head Pain
  Ahhhhhhhhhhhh. Summer. Time for more time enjoying the outdoors, vacations, and all the joys of warmer weather. For some people, the summer can also mean a different set of headache and Migraine triggers. The good part is that many of them can be avoided or controlled to some extent. Let's review summer triggers and what we can do about them.
• 12/23/03 - Tips To Get Through The Holidays with Less Head Pain
  For the average person, the holiday season evokes warm thoughts of family gatherings, special times with friends, holiday baking, snuggling by the fire, snowball battles, and more. You know the drill. For headache and Migraine sufferers, these visions of sugarplums dancing in our heads seem to be wearing tap shoes and have two left feet. We CAN make things easier!
• 8/13/04 - Topamax (topiramate) Approved for Migraine Prevention
  Doctors have been prescribing Topamax (topiramate) off-label for Migraine prevention for several years. Now, following clinical trials, the FDA has approved Topamax for this use. Topamax is a neuronal stabilizing agent, also known as an antiseizure medication.
• 04/21/03 - Topamax for Prevention: Proper Dosage and Taper
  Topamax (topiramate), a medication originally developed for seizure control, has been prescribed for several years now for prevention of cluster headaches and Migraine attacks. Here's important information about how to best use this medication.
• 10/04/01 - Topamax: Take With Care
  Manufacturer Ortho-McNeil has issued a warning letter to health care professionals regarding newly discovered potential side effects of Topamax, myopia and glaucoma.
• 11/21/05 Treating Pain Disorders With Intradermal Botox
  We've all heard a lot about Botox, botulinum Toxin Type A (BoNTA). It seems as if it's being used for something different every day. There are both cosmetic and medical applications for it. In the right hands, Botox is very helpful. Research into the most effective ways to use Botox for headache and Migraine treatment continues and is promising. Here, we'll take a look at research performed by John Claude Krusz, Ph.D., M.D., and William R. Knoderer, M.D., D.D.S., in Dallas.
• 01/13/03 - Triptans: Overview and Profiles
  In 1992, the FDA approved the first of a class of medications that many Migraineurs call "miracle drugs." That drug was sumatriptan (Imitrex®, Imigran®), the first triptan. Here are both general information on triptans and detailed profiles of each.
• 05/11/04 - Triptans Pose Less Risk Than OTC Meds for Some Patients
  Since triptans (Imitrex/sumatriptan, Maxalt/rizatriptan, etc.) were introduced in 1992, some doctors have been reluctant to prescribe them because of concerns about cardiovascular safety. Some refused to prescribe them for patients beyond a certain age even if they had no history of or risk factors for coronary artery disease. A new report offers evidence of their safety for those patients.
• 04/30/02 - UGH! Head Pain Season in Full Bloom
  An Interview With Dr. Robert E. Ryan, Jr., executive director of the Ryan Headache Center on confusion about "sinus headache" and proper diagnosis.
• 08/07/01 - Uh Oh! Do you know . . .
  How much do you know about headache/migraine meds? Here's your chance to find out by taking our quick, ten-question quiz.
• 03/16/04 - Ways to "Sneak In" Exercise Without Noticing
  Many people just don't like to exercise. For people with chronic pain diseases, however, exercise can be a genuine problem, seemingly impossible. However, we all know that exercise is good for us. It's good for our heart, lungs, muscles, and bones. It helps us sleep better, lifts depression, and boost our self confidence. Let's take a look at some ways to work some gentle, easy exercise into a typical day without increasing pain.
• 09/30/03 - WHAM and the XI Congress of the IHS
  As the World Headache Alliance held their annual meeting and the XI Congress of the International Headache Society was underway, great things were happening for sufferers of headaches and Migraine. Lifting the Burden, the Global Campaign to reduce the burden of headache worldwide was formally announced, and Valerie South, the recipient of of the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Award, donated the award funds to Lifting the Burden.
• 09/25/02 - WHAM! World Headache Awareness Month
  Anyone with a head pain disorder knows that we need to improve the awareness and education of others. September is WHAM! It's World Headache Awareness Month.
• 7/13/04 - What Are Ice Pick Headaches?
  Ice pick headaches are stabbing, extremely intense headaches that can be absolutely terrifying. They generally only last between five and 30 seconds. However, they come out of nowhere, can strike anywhere on the head, literally feel as if an ice pick is being stuck into your head, then disappear before you can even figure out what's happening.
• 11/29/04 - What Is Basilar-Type Migraine?
  If you've heard of this form of Migraine before, you've probably heard or seen it called Basilar Artery Migraine (BAM). A Basilar-Type Migraine is a Migraine that has aura symptoms originating from the brainstem and/or affecting both hemispheres of the brain at the same time, but with no motor weakness. It's frightening, and caution is needed in diagnosis and medications, but it's not as dangerous as it is frightening.
• 10/05/04 - What Is Hemiplegic Migraine?
  To understand Hemiplegic Migraine, we have to understand that Migraine attacks are episodic manifestations of a genetic neurological disease. Migraine can present in a variety of ways. Hemiplegic Migraine is a rare form of Migraine disease, made more confusing by there being two variations: Familial Hemiplegic Migraine (FHM) and Sporadic Hemiplegic Migraine (SHM).
• 07/05/04 - What Is Wrong Here?!
  This week's article is different. Why? Because I'm ticked. I'm really ticked! I want to share it with you because I believe we have the power to do something about it. One of our forum members has written that the only way she can find to get medical care for her daughter and herself is to get a divorce so they qualify for medicaid. We live in an ill society with broken systems. It's an election year and time to use our vote wisely.
• 04/27/04 - When You Can't Afford Medical Care . . .
  We all know how very difficult it is to get medical care and medications for our headaches and Migraines without insurance coverage. Lately, the number of forum posts and messages about this in my email and our "Ask the Clinician" questions have been increasing dramatically. While I certainly don't have great answers for this problem, here are some avenues to investigate.
• 06/17/02 - When Your Doctor Gives Up
  Too many people are reporting that their doctors have given up and said "I can't do anything for you," or "You'll just have to live with the pain." Get a new doctor — YOU'RE in charge, and you DESERVE good care!
• 10/30/05 - Who is Dr. Krusz?
  Who is Dr. John Claude Krusz? If you read our site, you've probably seen his name quite a lot. He helps me answer reader questions about Migraine disease and headaches for our Ask the Clinician section. What else do you know about him? Not much? Aha! Let's rectify that situation by telling you more about "Dr. K." in his newly updated profile.
• 7/26/04 - Why and How To Buy Sunglasses
  Whether it's the height of summer or the depths of winter, good sunglasses are a necessity. Not only are they vital to help us avoid headaches and Migraines, but they're vital to good eye health. Be sure to shop wisely for sunglasses, then remember to wear them!
• 07/17/02 - World Head Pain Experts Meet in Istanbul
  Leading head pain experts and advocates from around the globe met in Istanbul, Turkey, for the 6th Headache Congress, hosted by the European Headache Federation. It was a meeting of great minds, sharing ideas, leading to more innovative thinking.
• 04/20/04 - Writing As Therapy, Pain Into Poetry
  Writing is a great release from pain for many people. Over the last few years, our readers have submitted some wonderful poetry about their headaches and their Migraines. National Poetry Month is the perfect time to go back and take a look at their creative works.
• 10/03/04 - Zapping Migraines? Medtronic Begins Trial
  Medtronic, Inc., has announced the first patient implant in a preliminary study to evaluate if an implanted device might help some of the thousands of Americans who suffer the agony of chronic Migraines. Called Occipital Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Intractable Migraine, or ONSTIM, the study involves a Medtronic Synergy® neurostimulation device, which delivers electrical impulses via insulated lead wires tunneled under the skin near the occipital nerves at the base of the head.
• 07/25/01 - Zomig: A New Dissolving Tablet and More To Come
  Migraine treatment has come a long way from the days when holes were drilled in the heads of migraineurs to let out the evil demons! Zomig now comes in a new dissolvable tablet, Zomig-ZMT, and there's more to come!
• 10/20/03 - Zomig Now Approved In Nasal Spray Form
  Migraineurs and cluster headache sufferers who rely on triptans for relief, now have three formulas of Zomig available as the FDA has approved AstraZeneca's new Zomig (zolmitriptan) Nasal Spray, available in 5.0, 2.5, 1.0, and 0.5 mg dosages, for Migraine with or without aura. Zomig Nasal Spray joins the other two Zomig formulas, regular tablets and Zomig-ZMT orally disintegrating tablets.