Feeling frustrated that your migraine treatment isn’t working? That’s completely fair. It is frustrating that we live in an on-demand world where everything is just a click away, yet doctors still can’t say with 100% certainty which treatments will work for your migraine attacks.
But, before you give up, you should understand a little bit more about what’s standing in the way of you and an effective migraine treatment plan.
1. Understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution
Everyone’s migraine is different, meaning there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Unlike with tension headaches, the first over-the-counter pain relief medication you take probably isn’t going to take away the severe pain you feel during a migraine attack.
Yes, for some people, the first medication they’re prescribed will do the trick, but for others, it involves a combination of acute pain relief medication and preventive treatment that takes a little time to figure out.
2. Know that it’ll take time to find “the one”
Think of finding your migraine treatment plan like finding the perfect pair of jeans. It’s out there, but you're going to have to go into a few dressing rooms and try on a few brands before settling on “the one.”
So, like that pair of jeans, progress is a process and it’ll just take time and patience to find the treatment plan that's right for you.
3. Track your migraine attacks to make it easier to find that “one”
Because progress is a process, we’re huge advocates of tracking your migraine (the treatment’s efficacy, the symptoms, and the triggers).
The more information you can share with your doctor about your migraine headaches over time, your treatment history, and how your current treatment's working, the easier it’ll be for them to identify the next best step. Plus, it’ll help you start to understand your migraine triggers so you can avoid them when possible.
4. Take your medication as prescribed
We know, we know, this feels like a no-brainer. But how often have you skipped your preventive medication for a day (or two or three) because you were in a rush in the morning or didn't take your acute pain reliever because you forgot the bottle at home.
Do your best to create a routine that helps you remember to take your medication as needed, as well as keep it on hand so you have it as soon as a migraine attack begins.
5. Talk to your doctor
If you’re not seeing your migraine headaches reduce in severity or frequency after a few weeks, check in with your doctor and let them know (and having your tracker handy so you can be as specific as possible). While finding the right treatment plan might take some time, it’ll go a bit faster if you let your doctor know what’s working and what’s not.
We know how discouraging it can be to try a few (or several) different treatment options and still not see results. But don't give up! Yes, it's hard, but taking control of your migraine is worth the effort.
Need help finding the right treatment plan for your migraine? A Cove doctor can work with you to meet your specific needs.
The information provided in this article is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely upon the content provided in this article for specific medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your doctor.
Photo by Finn Hackshaw on Unsplash.
