|
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.
09/28/03
- Providers Ordered To Treat Pain
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."
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
08/4/03
- 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?
07/29/03
- 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.
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.
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.
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?
07/8/03
- Review: "The Mindbody Prescription"
Guest author Deborah Wirtel reviews this book by Dr. John Sarno. Is this book
helpful or harmful for those with headaches and Migraine?
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.
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.
06/23/03
- 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.
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.
06/17/03
- 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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. This is the
debut of this new feature.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
01/07/03
- Review: Heal Your Headache
This is a thought-provoking book. Dr. Buchholz makes some
excellent points, but readers should remember that he's writing about his
hypotheses rather than blindly accepting everything written in any book.
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!
12/24/02
- Review: "Living Well with Autoimmune Disease"
Times
have changed. Patients are educating themselves and becoming active participants
in their health care. With books such as "Living Well with Autoimmune Disease"
and committed authors like Mary J. Shomon, this patient strategy is becoming
easier.
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.
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.
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.
11/05/02
- Great Gifts: 2003 Calendars
Calendars always make great gifts for many occasions. Here are some that have
been carefully selected, keeping head pain sufferers in mind. From inspiration
to humor, there's something here for everyone.
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?
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.
10/17/02
- Review: "You Are NOT Your Illness"
It seems that chronic illness robs us of everything, including our identity.
This book offers not only insights, but concrete actions, to help us remember
that we "are not our illness," ways to live with the illnesses and still have
fulfilled lives.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
09/04/02
- Book Review: You Can Heal Your Life
Reviewed at the request of a forum member, this book by Louise L Hay has one
good thing going for it and a lot of MISinformation.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
07/24/02
- Review: Sound Therapy Eyeshades
The best way I've ever found to get total darkness, the Sound Therapy Eyeshades
also have built in soothing sounds and an audio input jack and cable so you can
listen to any music you want. Of course, you can also use the Eyeshades with no
sound at all.
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.
07/08/02
- Review: "Effortless Relaxation" (CD)
A superlative relaxation CD. The highest quality
music combined with subliminal affirmations combine to facilitate relaxation and
improve health.
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.
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!
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.
05/28/02
- 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.
05/21/02
- Product Review: BE KOOOL® Cooling Gel Pads
Want the cooling effects of an ice bag without the bother, weight, and
inconvenience that goes with it? Check out these light weight cooling pads that
stay where you put them.
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.
05/07/02
- 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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
02/19/02
- Review: "Women in Pain, Why It Hurts and What You Can Do"
One thumb up, one down for this new book. It covers many pain issues that are
important to women, and covers both traditional and alternative treatment
methods.
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.
01/29/02
- Saving Meds $$: Novartis & Pfizer Act
Bravo! Novartis had launched the Novartis Care Cardsm.
Pfizer
has launched the Pfizer for Living Share Card™.
These programs offer meds at lower prices for Medicare-eligible patients without
prescription insurance coverage.
01/23/02
- Headache/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.
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."
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.
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. 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.
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?
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.
11/01/01
-
Books for "Headachers" and Friends
The more you and those close to you know
about headaches and migraine, the easier it will be to cope with them. These
books are the best of the best for educating and encouraging understanding and
support. Whether you're working to be a valuable part of your health care team,
learning for a loved one, or looking for a way to explain to others, there's
something here for you. 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. 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!
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.
09/21/01
- Complementary Therapy for Headache/Migraine — Aromatherapy
From the plants ancient cultures used for healing come essential oils to be used
tor 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.
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." 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. 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.
08/07/01
- Un 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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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 vicitms and their family unbelievagle horrors and even death.
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.
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.
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.
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?
05/22/01
- REVIEW: Handbook of Headache Management
A Practical Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment of Head, Neck, and Facial
Pain. From some of the foremost
experts in their field comes this superbly comprehensive book that would be a
superlative addition to anyone's library.
Although intended for health care professionals, Headache Management...
is invaluable for anyone who wants to learn more about the management of
various headache disorders.
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.
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. 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.
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!
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.
04/10/01
- REVIEW: Clinical Pharmacology made Incredible Easy!
This book has come to my
rescue to learn more about how and why drugs work! It is written clearly,
concisely, and in terms that are understandable. While the tone is kept light,
it is packed with information that makes it a superlative reference book.
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!
03/28/01
- Time for a New Doc?
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.
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.
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.
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.
02/27/01
- REVIEW: The Women's Migraine Survival Guide
The Right
Doctor, Migraine and Pregnancy, Management at Work and Home, and more. A superb book
written by a doctor who really "gets it."
02/20/01
- Let's Study Kids' Headaches
Children's
headaches can be so difficult, especially when they can't tell us what's wrong.
Let's take a look at the different types that affect children and teens.
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? 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.
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.
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!
01/16/01 -
4 Family and Friends of Headachers
If you care about someone with
headaches, YOU need support to. New sections have been added to our site and our
forum to offer information and support to help you also. Please join us.
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."
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.
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.
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.
12/12/00 -
REVIEW: THE COMPLETE IDIOT'S GUIDE . . .
to Migraines
and Other Headaches. Solid, knowledgeable, practical, caring. About as good as a
basic book about headaches gets.
11/25/00 -
IT'S A HEADACHE, 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.
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.
11/23/00 -
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.
11/14/00 -
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.
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.
10/26/00 -
REVIEW: THE
HEADACHE PREVENTION COOKBOOK
Unfortunately, foods are a major headache trigger for many people.
Fortunately, Dr. David Marks has written this book with a superb program for
identifying those triggers and preventing headaches. His wife, Dr. Laura Marks
has developed some wonderful recipes to accompany the program..
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.
10/17/00 - EMPOWERMENT
Over Headaches
Headaches 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.
10/11/00 - Triptans:
for Migraine, Cluster, & Menstrual Migraine
Imitrex, Amerge, Zomig, and Maxalt -- the triptans, are used to
abort headaches BEFORE they get the best of us. Here's info to help
end the confusion!
10/05/00 - Review:
Robbins on Headache Help & Meds
Two of the best books I have EVER found
for info on all kinds of headaches, treatments and medications: Headache Help
by Lawrence Robbins, M.D., and Susan Lang and Management of Headache and
Headache Medications by Lawrence Robbins, M.D.
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.
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.
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.
08/30/00 - A Guided
Tour of Hell
A Guided Tour of Hell: Migraine, in the Words of Its Sufferers. This is
a book migraineurs have been waiting
for. This is a book we want our families, doctors, friends --
everyone with whom we come in contact -- to read.
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.
08/16/00 - Is it
Migraine? Tension? What?
Here it is,
another day . . . and another headache. What to do . . . pain
pills . . . a hot shower . . . a decongestant . . . relaxation
exercises? It all depends on what kind of headache you have..
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.
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.
07/21/00 - Adolescent
Headache? Is it Monday?
A recent study has shown that Mondays are the day teenage migraineurs are most
likely to suffer an attack. Kids don't always know what to tell you
about their headaches. Find out what to ask and what to do.
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.
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.
07/05/00 - 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.
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.
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.
05/16/00 - 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. 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.
04/25/00 - The
Most Wonderful Words
For years, headache sufferers have gotten little if any relief. Their pain
has been misunderstood or dismissed. The good news is, headache sufferers
don't have to live this way any longer.
|
