MORE THAN 10 MILLION Americans have migraines creating a burden of mostly unnecessary suffering.(i) These severe, nearly disabling headaches can occur from once a year to three to four times a week. They can last from hours to days. They are often associated with an aura, light sensitivity, nausea, vomiting, and severe throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head. Migraines are even associated with stroke-like symptoms or paralysis in some cases …
The cost to society is also enormous. Migraine headaches add $13 billion to $17 billion to our healthcare costs each year. These costs include medications, emergency room visits, hospitalization, physician services (primary care and specialty), laboratory and diagnostic services, and managing the side effects of treatment.
Migraines have indirect costs too. A headache is the most frequent pain-related complaint among workers. Focusing specifically on migraines, one study found that the annual cost to employers exceeded $14.5 billion, of which $7.9 billion was due to absenteeism and $5.4 billion to diminished productivity.(ii)
So this is a HUGE problem — both to those who suffer and to society as a whole.
Worse, migraines are hard to treat and very difficult to prevent with conventional approaches. There are a host of preventive drugs — calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, anti-seizure medications, antidepressants, and more –which work poorly, if at all, and are accompanied by frequent side effects. Some doctors are now even using Botox to paralyze neck muscles in the hopes of easing migraines.
There is also a new class of medication called triptans (like Imitrex, Maxalt, and Zomig) that can stop a migraine once it starts. Though these have made migraine sufferers handle the attacks better, they also have serious potential side effects, including strokes, and are expensive. Still other treatments can lead to addiction or dependence. Not a pretty picture. And for many, none of these treatments work very well or at all.
The problem with migraines is the same one we see so often in medicine: We treat the symptoms, not the cause. We only deal with the effects of something and not the underlying 7 keys to UltraWellness. But using Functional Medicine I have been able to get nearly 100 percent of my patients migraine free within days to weeks!
Migraines are no different from any other disease. It’s simply the name we call a set of symptoms that are common in groups of people.
I want to explain how I do that. I will tell you the story of one of my patients (a doctor herself) who, after years of suffering from migraines, finally came to me looking for relief. You will learn what I did to help her (as well as many others) and how you can apply the same measures to overcome your migraines. And I will give you 14 tips that will help you identify and treat the real causes of your headaches.
I will tell you the story of one of my patients (a doctor herself) who, after years of suffering from migraines, finally came to me looking for relief. You will learn what I did to help her (as well as many others) and how you can apply the same measures to overcome your migraines. And I will give you 14 tips that will help you identify and treat the real causes of your headaches.
Dozens of Migraine Patients, Dozens of Different Cures
Many of my patients are doctors themselves and are often at the end of their rope. One was a physician from the Mayo Clinic, the Mecca of conventional medicine. This woman had severe, disabling migraines that made it nearly impossible for her to function at work. She depended on oxycodone (a strong morphine-like narcotic) and Zofran (a powerful anti-nausea drug used for chemotherapy patients).
She had seen every specialist at the Mayo Clinic and had traveled far and wide to other top neurology headache centers but never found relief. Unfortunately everyone she saw focused on her headaches, not her other symptoms — which held all of the clues to her problem.
Migraines are no different from any other disease. It’s simply the name we call a set of symptoms that are common in groups of people. This name tells us nothing about the cause of the symptoms, which may be very different depending on the person. In fact, there may be more than 20 different causes of migraine headaches!
My job is to be a medical detective and find these causes. It is not to simply prescribe powerful symptom-suppressive drugs. I remember very well working in the emergency room, treating all the chronic migraine patients with intravenous narcotics and nausea medication. I felt bad for them, but worse that I didn’t have a way to prevent them from coming back.
Now I do.
Which leads me back to the doctor who came to see me from the Mayo Clinic who suffered migraines nearly every day for years with no relief. Here is what I did to help her …
First, I asked her a lot of questions and learned she suffered from many symptoms including palpitations, severe constipation, anxiety, insomnia, muscle cramps, and menstrual cramps — in addition to her migraines.
All of these symptoms are connected. They told me that her whole system was tight, irritable, and crampy. These symptoms are usually associated with severe magnesium deficiency,(iii) which often results from poor diet, caffeine, sugar, alcohol, and stress.
So I put her on high doses of magnesium and cleaned up her diet. Within a couple of days, she was migraine free and never had another migraine.
She’s not the only success story.
Another patient had disabling migraines for 45 years and could not have a social life or plan anything because she spent most of her time in bed with the lights out. She also had an allergy to eggs. When we eliminated the eggs from her diet, her headaches disappeared. No eggs, no migraines. Three months after treatment she felt so good she decided to have an egg and ended up in the hospital with a three-day migraine confirming our original finding.
Another patient always had migraines before her period, along with severe PMS, bloating, sugar cravings, breast tenderness, and irritability. These symptoms are all related to hormonal imbalances.(iv) She had too much estrogen and too little progesterone. Getting her hormones back in balance relieved her of her migraines.
Yet another patient had genetic problems with her mitochondria and energy metabolism and needed high doses of vitamin B2 (v) and coenzyme Q10 (vi) to get relief. And another woman came to see me with persistent abdominal bloating after eating, which told me she had overgrowth of bacteria in her small bowel. When we cleared out these bacteria with a non-absorbed antibiotic, her migraines went away and didn’t return.
One patient who lived on Diet Coke didn’t get rid of her migraines until she gave up the artificial sweetener aspartame. Another had low blood sugar episodes that triggered migraines, so eating small, frequent meals of whole foods stopped the headaches. And finally, there was the woman who got headaches after exercise in the heat or with dehydration. We made sure she stayed hydrated and her migraines were permanently eliminated.
As you can see, even though these patients all had the same symptoms, their treatment was different in each case. So getting the full story — with the 7 Keys of UltraWellness — is so important. To heal from migraines you have to locate the causes of your headaches and address these underlying issues if you want to be free of pain.
To help you on that journey, here are the most important causes of migraines, their associated symptoms, tests to help identify problems, and treatments you can start using today.
Finding and Curing the Causes of Your Migraines
Food Allergy/Bowel and Gut Imbalances
• The symptoms: Fatigue, brain fog, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, joint or muscle pain, postnasal drip and sinus congestion, and more.
• The testing: Check an IgG food allergy (vii) panel and also check a celiac panel because wheat and gluten (viii) are among the biggest causes of headaches and migraines. Stool testing and urine testing for yeast or bacterial imbalances that come from the gut can also be helpful.
• The treatment: An elimination diet — getting rid of gluten, dairy, eggs, and yeast — is a good way to start. Corn can also be a common problem. Getting the gut healthy with enzymes, probiotics, and omega-3 fats is also important.
Chemical Triggers
• The causes: A processed-food diet including aspartame, MSG (monosodium glutamate), nitrates (in deli meats), sulfites (found in wine, dried fruit, and food from salad bars) is to blame. Tyramine-containing foods like chocolate and cheese are also triggers.
• The treatment: Get rid of additives, sweeteners, sulfites, and processed food. Eat a diet rich in whole foods and phytonutrients.
Hormonal Imbalances
• The causes: Premenstrual syndrome with bloating, fluid retention, cravings, irritability, breast tenderness, menstrual cramps; use of an oral contraceptive pill or hormone replacement therapy; or even just being pre-menopausal, which leads to too much estrogen and not enough progesterone because of changes in ovulation.
• The testing: Blood or saliva hormone testing looks for menopausal changes or too much estrogen.
• The treatment: Eat a whole-foods, low-glycemic-load, high-phytonutrient diet with flax, soy, and cruciferous vegetables. Use herbs such as Vitex, along with magnesium and B6. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, sugar, and refined carbohydrates. Exercise and stress reduction also help.
Magnesium Deficiency
• The symptoms: Anything that feels tight or crampy like headaches, constipation, anxiety, insomnia, irritability, sensitivity to loud noises, muscle cramps or twitching, and palpitations.
• The testing: Check red blood cell magnesium levels. Even this can be normal in the face of total body deficiency, so treatment with magnesium based on the symptoms is the first choice.
• The treatment: Magnesium glycinate, citrate, or aspartate in doses that relieve symptoms or until you get loose bowels. If you have kidney disease of any kind, do this only with a doctor’s supervision.
Mitochondrial Imbalances
• The symptoms: Fatigue, muscle aching, and brain fog, although sometimes the only symptom can be migraines.
• The testing: Checking urinary organic acids can be helpful to assess the function of the mitochondria and energy production.
• The treatment: Taking 400 mg of riboflavin (B2) twice a day and 100 to 400 mg a day of coenzyme Q10 can be helpful, as can as other treatments to support the mitochondria.
Keep in mind that sometimes a combination of treatments is necessary. Other treatments can be helpful in selected cases, such as herbal therapies (like feverfew and butterbur), acupuncture, homeopathy, massage, and osteopathic treatment to fix structural problems.
The bottom line is that this problem — which affects one in five Americans and costs society $24 billion a year — is almost entirely preventable, simply by following the principles of Functional Medicine and UltraWellness. So get to the bottom of your symptoms — and get ready for migraine relief. It’s the best way to move toward lifelong vibrant health.
Now I’d like to hear from you…
Do you suffer from migraines?
What treatments have you tried and how are they working?
Have you found a connection between the causes I’ve mentioned and your headaches?
What steps have you taken to address them?
Please share your thoughts by leaving a comment below.
Yes! for magnesium. My migraines steadily increased through the years with episodes lasting longer. Eventually I quit my part-time job (thinking they were stress-related) but I also began taking magnesium supplements at this time. Within a few months, they were dramatically decreased!
It has been 2-1/2 yrs since that time. I am working again, and although I still get the occasional headache (which I almost always able to attribute to lack of sleep, cheap chocolate or even constipation caused by overly-processed foods) they are not of the debilitating variety I once endured.
Throughout all this time, I have been diligent about exercise but without the constant migraines, I have found it easier to focus on whole foods improving my overall health and losing the 20 extra pounds that I carried for a decade.
I had frequent migraines for many years. They were very severe and I got to the point that I thought I just couldn’t live. The first few years I had them I could take an analgesic and sleep, but I still felt awful for days. When that stopped working the pain med just made me vomit and the migraine much worse. I know stress and certain foods, which I try to avoid, help trigger these things.
I have found tremendous help with good quality herbs and Contact Reflex Analysis (CRA). I very rarely ever get migraines now. I take B Complex, Magnesium and Feverfew everyday.
I used to have arrhythmias, and they have also ceased thanks to the magnesium.
I also take Kelp everyday because it prevents me from biting my fingernails, which I had done almost all my life. I strongly believe in good quality natural products. You must have a company you can trust. I am an RN and I believe prevention is the key.
I suffered from migraines for 15 years until I discovered the nutritional website http://www.acu-cell.com. It lists specific nutrients to use depending on whether the migraine is left or right sided. For left sided I take vitamin c or calcium, for right sided I take magnesium. It is truly miraculous. I believe my migraines were related to liver function, and the migraine medicines that the mainstream docs prescribed only damaged my liver further.
I am in my late fifties and have had chronic daily migraines for at least twenty years. I have a brother & sister who also have chronic migraines and another sibling who only has them once or twice a week. I try to eat fresh, organic foods as much as possible. I can’t eat nuts or many dried beans as they are migraine triggers for me. I tried the B2 for several years but found no effect. Magnesium helped slightly but gave me terrible diarrhea. Acupuncture gave temporary relief, but is too expensive for my budget and after twenty or so sessions didn’t produce any real breakthrough. I’ve tried feverfew, which did nothing, and butterbur, which gave me stomach pains. I also tried some Chinese herbs the acupuncturist sold me. Frankly, I didn’t find much here that I haven’t tried. I exercise. I eat whole grains, vegetables, and proteins, from the sources that I can tolerate — mainly fish, chicken, eggs. My latest neurologist has me on a pretty regimen that allows me to function. I don’t like to have to take drugs, but I don’t like having headaches more.. I pay attention to my body and my headache triggers, but I still haven’t found the magic bullet.
There are different forms of magnesium, I take the malate at 1000mg a day, with no diarrhea. please try more magnesium, the malate I take is time release so you will not get the bad effects of diarrhea.
I have suffered from migraines for 20 years. Only this year an ENT doctor suggested an elimination diet because my nose was swollen on inside and she suspected an allergy. It turned out that I react to any high protein food like: meat, eggs, legumes, nuts, dairy. No gluten problem. Protease helps a bit and HCl even more , but HCl gives me terrible gas. My GI doctor doesn’t believe me, she thinks it is just placebo. I am trying to understand why the proteins have this effect. I take thyroid hormones . I used to be hyperthyroid for years and then I became hypothyroid.
I am malnourished from avoiding the high protein food for the last 8 months. I weight 90 pounds now! I will try to find out more about the intestinal bacteria overgrowth that the doctor mentioned. Thank you!
I have had frequent migraines for almost 40 years. I believe they are caused by changes in the barometric pressure at times, but we have been unable to find another trigger. I have incredibly tight & rigid shoulder muscles and shoulder blade muscles that burn incessantly.
Triptans have made it possible to function for the last 15 years, but in general, I still more than I would like due to either a migraine, or the fear of a migraine. When I run low on a month’s supply of pills, I can feel the panic begin to build. Sometimes I feel that I understand a little of what an alcoholic or drug addict goes through mentally, even though I don’t have to deal with the physical addiction.
I am most frightened by my fading memory and the long-term effects of triptan use. I know that I will have a price to pay someday, but feel absolutely powerless to do anything but what I am now doing.
Thank you for your message, Carol, and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Please try the magnesium , there are different forms of magnesium some people complain of diarrhea, but I take the malate at 1000mg a day it is time relase so you will not get the upset stomach. I was so depleted it took months to get replenished, but if I had known there were magnesium IV I would of done that immediately to get the magnesium my body was starving for. read the book The magnesium miracle by dr. carolyn dean. God Bless
I am in my 50′s and have been suffering from very frequent migraines (migraine variant with daily debilitating dizziness) fro 3 years). I had every diagnosis in the book until I finally went to a neurologist. I, too, have tried feverfew, butterbur, magnesium, probiotics, etc. to no avail. I now have my life back by taking a pediatric dose of topamax. It is unfortunate to have to take an anti-seizure drug. However, functional medicine practioners here in my state are much too costly and do not cooperate with medical insurance so they only are available to help upper income patients. When boutique medicine becomes available to those who truly need it then the the masses will get well.
I suffered from migraine (classic visual disturbances, painful head ‘fog’, slurred speech, sensitivity to light, feeling ‘hung over’, fatigue, etc) once or more a week for probably about 10 years. While trying to eliminate various foods from my diet, I finally eliminated chocolate. Within two weeks, the symptoms cleared completely. I became like a new person, painfree, with more energy, and able to concentrate and use a computer all day at work. For me the trigger seems to be chocolate and only chocolate. Since then I have had a mild migraine maybe twice a year, but this is tolerable.
I have had migraines since the onset of menopause, 10 + years.
Magnesium really helps however i find tht my skin is really drying out , especially my face from the magnesium citrate formula. What do you suggest?
When I get a migraine I take 1 aleve, one aspirin and one magnesium/ citrate capsule along with a coke, it seems to help me.
62, post menopausausal, healthy, active woman. the ONLY problem is my migraines which i have had since i was a teenager and have increased dramatically this past year. i actually have owned a natural foods market for 25 years and have taken every herb, remedy, etc. out there!! but the magnesium connection is very interesting and i started taking it a few days ago. i am actually very close to getting on a preventative med, since the headaches have become such an interruption in my busy life. i seem to have many of the indicators listed for low magnesium levels. i’ll give it a try.
A nurse friend of mine was having terrible migraines for years. She found that when she took 2 NeuroBright capsules and two IQ DHA omega 3 supplements that she got rid of her migraines. After reading the above stories I just wanted to share what happened with Angela. You can go to my website and check it out. You may call me too, my telephone is on my website. I rarely get a headache but I do take these two products and I notice that I have better focus in everything that I do. I’m a violinist and I’m very busy this time of year with all the Christmas programs. These products have been a real Blessing to me.
Leeann, Try a magnesium product that is formulated by a small company in Arizona called Jigsaw (I have no connection whatsoever with the company).
I think their website is http://www.jigsawhealth.com.
Their magnesium is excellent. A high grade that should not upset your stomach.
I have recommended it to several friends who have suffered from severe migraines and they have all had wonderful results.
I have been reading about the use of MSM for pain relief. Don’t know much about it but an internet search should pull it up.
Pretty! This was a really wonderful post.. Thanks once again for the push!
I have suffered from migraines for years. I have been completely gluten free and msg free for at least 18 months. Rarely do I get an aura migraine anymore. I eat whole foods and rarely any processed foods. I still get congested everyday and have headaches but not nearly what I had in the past. I think this must be a food allergy. I am going to try the magnesium and cutting out (one by one) sulfites and dairy and see if this helps.
I have had migraines since I was a boy. Nothing worked to give me relief. I was in my late 60′s when my search for relief was sucessful. Celery juice takes about 30 minutes to completely stop a migraine. It works for my two girls also. It is safe,effective, and cheap.
I read your article with your interest. It is unique to see such a open minded approach towards migraine. I have been suffering from the migraines for 6 years. I have reached a peak last year when my attacks were almost permanent and my life was divided into pain and getting over triptans effects periods.
I was feeling so bad to the point that I had double thoughts at some point.
I decided to do all the necessary blood tests and MRI. Had double level of cortisole and low of iron and B12. Besides everything was ok. The diagnosis was that I was dependent on triptants and their side effect of rebound headache. I was told to stop the triptans at all. Minor doses of painkillers were allowed instead. What such a perspective means for a migraine sufferer only the latter ones know…
Anyway started to google for solutions as I wasnt feeling well. Found great feedback on gluten free diet. It was a miracle. I had a record of 1,5 month without a migraine!!! I was head over feet thinking how lucky I was. neverhteless something is wrong again. SInce the beginning of 2011 I already have 2nd attach despite being on gluten free diet.
I dont know what to think. I have done blood test for coeliac disease but it proved negative. The problem is that I was already on a gluten free diet for 3 months on. SO the tests could have been negative positive.
I am very anxious observing a rebound and dont know what to do.
The only last thing I can consider is to stop contraceptive I have been taking for 6 years in a row.
Blood tests seem to be fine.
Or maybe I should consider food allergy tests…
I have no wise doctor whom I could turn to and who would really listen to me with an open mind.
If you could help me anyhow I will be more that grateful.
Thank you, Maria, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Stop the contraception and get on 1000mg of magnesium, read Dr. Carolyn Dean book on the miracle of magnesium.
I had terrible migraines for years in perimenopause from too much estrogen — estrogen dominance. As I entered menopause, they got worse and more frequent, so I tried a bunch of different drugs. Opioids helped, but what a hard row to hoe. Then a few years after menopause, discovered my neck had a lateral “curve” in it.
So balancing my hormones and getting regular chiropractic care really got rid of the migraines, almost completely. Now it’s a rare thing, and I do one of the above to fix it.
LOVE YOU Dr. Hyman!!! I really believe that your health stratgies will become mainstream soon.
I have suffered from headaches all my life but also from migraines for at least the last 20 years. Most of my migraines were hormonal or so I thought. I would get them for three days when I ovulated, three days when I started my period and then three days when I finished. I have been on at least four different migraine medicines and currently take Rel-pax which does work for me by blocking the pain. Unfortunately, I have a very high family history of breast cancer so hormones are not an option for me. Within the last two years, my migraines have changed as I am peri-menopausal (I am 55). They come at random but at least three to five times a month. Some would last a day, some three days. Some with an aura, some without. Some I would wake up with and others would hit mid afternoon out of the blue.
HOWEVER, since starting the Daniel Plan with my church (Saddleback), I have not had a migraine for the last 5 weeks with the exception of headaches the first week that I think were caused from detoxing by giving up, processed food, diet coke, sugar, white flour, white pasta, white rice etc. I am trying to follow the plan and Dr. Hyman’s recommendations and hopefully they will stay away. Just going this long has been a miracle and I am truly grateful for Dr. Hyman and the Ultra-Metabolism, and for the Daniel Plan and finally getting my act together and focusing on the horrible things I have been eating. Obviously, I have eliminated something that was causing my migraines. Thank you, thank you!!
I can certainly vouch 100% that birth control pills were the cause for my migraines. I was on birth control pills for over 10 years. Every month I would suffer migraines to the point where I was vomiting, couldn’t see daylight, artificial light, snow glare, or hear loud noises, etc. I would have to miss a day off of work to recuperate. Then I reached a point where I would vomit green bile. When I became pregnant a second time I never suffered a migraine during pregnancy. Soon after giving birth, I told my husband that I would never take any birth control pills again. He got a vasectomy and I never had to take a birth control pill again! It’s been approximately two years since I gave birth and I haven’t had a migraine since. I will seldom get a simple headache, but not a migraine.
I have suffered from Migraines for years. recently in increasing severity and frequency. I am at my whits end with this. Daily meds, pain pills, Nausea meds, and ultimately ER visits with help from some and doubst and suspicion from others. I resent being treated as a drug seeker when all I want is help and relief. I know there is a family history of migraines. My mother suffered from migraines and both of my natural children suffer from migraines. My mother’s sister suffers from migraines also. The only common link to my migraines is they proceed emotionally stressful situations, like after everything has been resolved or periods of lack of sleep, like when I worked 12 hour nights multiple days in a row.
These are things I pretty much dont control, well except for the night shift thing, I refuse mostly to work it and definately not multiple days in a row.
I noticed that you did not mention migraines that seem to be caused by atmospheric pressure changes…when a northern comes through very quickly or when it clouds up to rain. Can you help? I have tried just about everything you mentioned. I find that icing my neck and top of head near forehead really helps dull the pain till the meds take effect. Thanks for your help.
Wow, thank you so much for this! I can’t wait to try magnesium because my migraines have become more frequent and last three days during which I can do nothing. They are right-sided premenstrual. I’ll let you know if it works for me.
I have suffered from migraines for over 20 years now. It started off being 1 day long. I have also experienced the neon zigzag light and distorted vision. The longest migraine Ive had most recently went on for about 5 days. I am scarred to drink any alcohol. So Ive given it up. Ive changed my eating habits, as I looked 9 months pregnant after eating certain foods, I do homecooking only and discovered some years ago that I have a yeast intolerance. I have an underactive thyroid as well and when the migraines got worse along with increasing pains in the neck and shoulders I was researching to see if it was related to this. I have been experimenting with many different remedies. None of which I was happy with. I feel like im immune to paracetamol. I laughed my head off last time I spoke to the Doctor and she recommended paracetamol. The stronger stuff makes me feel like a bit of a zombie. This month Ive started taking magnesium, multivitamins, B vitamins, evening primrose, vit c. I have noticed a difference already. I have been to the GPs and consultants but all they are interested in is my thyroid blood test being in the normal range. They do not care that I feel like my thyroid meds are doing nothing for me. They dont care that maybe I should be on a different dose to suit me the patient. Just that they get the blood test in the normal range so that they can give me the synthetic meds. I have been asking many questions but they are not interested. Its been difficult trying to sort this all out myself. And costly. Surely if the doctors address these warning signs in the beginning it will prevent later disease developing in the future and the cost to the health service would be reduced. But hey what do I know. I have also found that exercise and trying to be stress free is helping as well. I was happy to read this article thank you for posting it. Its very helpful to me. If I avoid all the foods relating to thyroid problems and yeast intolerances and migraines well it doesnt leave much. Especially if your out for the day.
I kept having bad eye pain and pain in my temples. I drove my eye doctor crazy for a long time and finally he told me to see my doctor because he couldn’t find anything wrong with my eyes. My doctor had me take a CT Scan which made me feel like I was going crazy after the CT Scan and they found nothing, so she sent me to a neurologist who gave me all kinds of medicine that could cause even worse problems that I wouldn’t take. He told me to try Petadolex because I wouldn’t take the medicine he prescripted. I took that for a long time and it may have helped some but I also took some B vitamins and magnesium on my own because of things that I had read and tried to stay away from certain foods. My eyes started to feel a little better and I didn’t have the pain in the temples or the aura hardly ever any more. I still have pain at times but nothing like I use to. I was worried about having a stroke or going blind because twice I lost my eye sight for a few minutes and my head felt really strange when it happened. I’m just concerned that it may happen when I’m driving sometime because I never know when it is going to happen because when it did I was feeling fine until it happened.
I had suffered from crippling migraines for years, until a friend of mine told me that i might be allergic to caffeine. I stopped drinking coffee, but continued with tea. I realized later it was the instant coffee which was causing the migraine. Though the migraines stopped, i developed another problem – severe eyestrain and non-migranous headaches ! I was not able to hold any job, nor socialize, nor have any kind of quality to life. My eyes ached when i did simple kitchen tasks or even talk to people. This condition was most severe during menstrual periods. People thought it was all in my mind. Doctors too thought the same after all tests proved negative. I was not able to read in years when books had been my passion! This was my state until i reached menopause. Post-menopause, I realized my eyestrain was reducing. I was able to read, talk to people – though years of not working left me with few skills. I went for a short course of medical transcription, and now i do transcription from home. I think it was hormonal imbalance, or maybe too much of estrogen, though doctors don’t agree. I am near normal now. I am so thrilled i have a new lease on life. I am a little bitter though that the doctors were not able to detect this! What you write here makes so much sense!! Thank you.
I love how Dr. Hyman works to find the cause of symptoms instead of covering them up. I work in much the same way with my fibromyalgia clients. It takes a comprehensive approach targeting all the things that affect your health, including your thoughts. And yes, you need to find your personal keys to wellness, since everyone is different. Those who are still searching for their personal keys, don’t give up hope.
I have suffered from migraines since I was 15 (I am now 62). I have gone through most of the preventative drugs and couldn’t stand the side effects or allergic reactions. I had an ELISA blood test done 10 years ago which revealed sensitivities to 34 different foods, mostly fruits and vegetables. I do better on the Atkins diet, but still get migraines once a week. I take magnesium and calcium every night at bedtime. I recently spent 6 months suffering from urticaria and angioedema, finally relieved by a daily antihistamine. I seem to be sensitive to salicylates. There is very little I can eat now. I do get migraines from dehydration, eating fresh yeast products, and probably from wheat. I have gone through periods of 2-3 months migraine-free even though I ate stuff I was sensitive to and drank alcohol. I drink one cup of coffee with cream every day because I can’t face the week or more of migraines going through withdrawal. I avoid aspertame.
I was one of those people that suffered from what’s called paraplegic or hemiplegic migranes that also presented with a seizure. They were extreme and I often spent days in emergency departments. It gripped me in my mid twenties and took about 7 years of searching to unravel. My major breakthrough came when I read a tiny article about migraine sufferers and a low Amine diet. I had never heard of Amines but after some investigation discovered that it is the breakdown of protein. Many foods contain this in high levels. Having tried everything conceivable I went on a low amine diet. I found my magic bullet. Migraine free, headache free, nausea free, depression free and vertigo free.
The Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Sydney Australia- Allergy unit has done a study on Amines and Migranes
Wow- it does make me feel better to know I’m not alone in this migraine issue. I have had auras without much headache for over 30 years. I had them a couple times a year until I reached 56. For the past 4 years I get auras at least 7-11 times a month. I have had mri’s, cat scans, used acupuncture, stress reduction, etc. Magnesium seems to cause gi problems which increases palpitations at any level over 200mg. I have been on Petadolex for almost 6 months and at times I thought it made the auras shorter like a minute or two, but other times not at all. I have always thought they were structural(neck issues). I have tried chiropractors also. I am an avid exerciserf and they increased after hiring a personal trainer 6 years ago. I am at my wits end trying to figure this out. I need answers.
Thank you, Debbe, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I have dealt with migraines since being a child. Five years ago, I began to really study natural alternatives in dealing with health issues. In learning how to naturally control blood sugar levels, I began using organic cinnamon. One side effect of this was that the organic cinnamon naturally relieved my migraines. It is all that I use now when I feel one coming on. Ok, and proper breathing techniques.
Dear Dr. Hyman,
This request is a desperate one. My brother-in-law has been found with Myelofribrosis and is in 4th stage. no one is able to come up with ant kind of relief for his condition. his age is 80. Please tell me what I may recomend for him.
Thank You,
Joseph Lo Grande
joseph1000@comcast.net
Thank you, Joseph, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
In “chemical triggers,” you left out the ubiquitous (everything from M&Ms to Doritos) red dye # 40.
I had planned to write a letter to Dr. Hyman directly, but I think this forum is perfectly relevant. I saw Dr Hyman speak in Mountain View, CA at the end of 2010 and was curious about what I heard and wondered hopefully whether I’d finally found the method for curing my decade long battle with migraines. I’d been taking Imitrex once a week at least and no amount of exercise, water intake, sleep or other activity was helping. I was constantly taking Excedrine Migraine to keep from having to use the Imitrex, but it was rarely effective in getting rid of the migraines completely.
After reading the copy of UltraWellness that I received at the event, I started a one month test period of supplements and stopped eating Splenda and other fake sugars. With a little fine tuning (magnesium intake was reduced) I’ve now been migraine -free for 15 weeks and have also seen improvements with focus, digestion and PMS symptoms. I also don’t have to live in fear of my prescriptions losing their efficacy due to long time use – I haven’t taken Imitrex in months.
The blend of supplements I’m taking, based on specific symptoms described in the book, have been a lifesaver and a complete eye opener about the way I should treat my body. The most sincere thanks to Dr. Hyman.
Natural, non-processed food and exercise has been the key to limiting migraines. I am sensitive to gluten, dairy and eggs and find that eating these in large quantities, especially together, can trigger a migraine (think pizza). However, the biggest influence on my migraines has been eliminating msg, nitrites and sulfites. I would often get a headache after eating out, and I came to understand that a lot of restaurant food, especially soups and dressings, is laden with msg. Natural grocery stores like Whole foods have nitrite-free turkey and numerous fresh salad dressings. These little changes have made all the difference.
When I was going through menopause I started to get migraines 4 times a year. I would wake up in te morning with the most excruciating pain and nauseous. One of the men I worked with suggested Tiger Balm (white formula) so I gave it a try. I would put a tiny bit on each temple and above the bridge of my nose, go back to bed and in a half-hour, I was up and getting ready for work, migraine gone. Over the years I carried a small container in my purse and when I was asked for a pain reliever by one of my co-workers, I gave them the tiger balm to use. They all came back asking where they could get it as their pain was gone within a very short time. The beauty of this is you use it topically and it’s good for many other problems, such as mosquito or other bug bites, to name one other use. There are other uses, i.e. sore back, sore neck from whiplash etc. To this day, I make sure I have tiger balm on hand after 40 years of using this miracle.
Great article. I have suffered from migraines all my life. They got worse after menopause. My migraines stopped after eating small, frequent meals with low glycemic index. I feel better with a gluten free diet. I eat lots of vegetables and take magnesium as high chlorophyll supplements (spirulina, grasses, alfalfa). I also cannot eat onions, garlic, fenugreek, coffee or anything that pushes the blood sugar too low, otherwise the migraines return.
I couldn’t agree more with this article. My problem was not the Migraine headache itself but the aura that preceeds the pain. My vision becomes impaired for up to 20 min at a time. It’s scary if you happen to be driving let me tell you. I cut out MSG which is a trick in itself because MSG can be called about 15 different names. It’s in almost everything. Also anything with high fructose corn syrup and artificial sweetners…what does that leave you with? Whole Foods! Cooking is a lot more effort because everything is fresh, not processed, but the benefit is very much worth it. I was having repeated episodes and now have less than one a year. I’m stil on the learning curve of watching for MSG, but that’s why I follow Dr. Hyman. The information he provides us all is invaluable!
I have had migraines since my teens and I am now 47 years old. The intensity and frequency has increased in the last year. I first attributed it to peri-menopause, had saliva testing done and found that my estrogen levels were normal along with everything else except progesterone which was a little low. My doctor put me on bio-identical progesterone which worked at first but then the migraines came back worse than ever, especially before my period and the period was heavy and intolerable. I asked my doc to put me on the birth control pill and to just take it so I didn’t get any periods. That worked great for a while- no periods, no migraines. Then the migraines came back and were not responding well to my triptan and then became more frequent. A friend was having a great response to topamax so I went on that, and that worked great at first. Fewer migraines, and I was able to stop then when I felt them coming on with axert. Now they are more frequent, I have constant neck pain, and frequent back and joint pain and they are not responding well to maxalt (had to go off axert because of insurance coverage). I was taking magnesium for years as a preventative and thought that it worked but now I see in your article it is not one of the types you recommend. I hate all these medications and I am really frustrated. I had a physical yesterday and will go in for MRIs this week so we will see if there is something more going on. I did have a 101 fever with no other symptoms other than the ever present neck pain. Thanks for the article. If nothing else is there I may try getting off all of this stuff and going the completely natural route. I do try to eat well and exercise regularly so if the MRIs and blood tests are clear I am hoping I can try your methods. Thanks!
My migraines started when I started taking birth control pills in my 20′s. I didn’t realize that I had also become allergic to some foods, which my doctor encouraged me to find out by keeping a journal. I figured I was allergic to soy sauce and brown sugar. Both of these can give me a headache in less than an hour. I have eliminated those 2 from my diet and my migraines have improved dramatically. I exercise regularly, do pilates and cardio. I eat whole grains, fruit, vegetables, broccoli, green leaves, blueberries, soy milk, tofu. I still get Premenstrual migraines. Everywhere I have read, it seems like they’re caused by low estrogen. I don’t know what to do about this cause. Excedrin helps me every time but I would rather try Magnesium, Vitex and B6 (recommended by you above) and prevent those rather than taking NSAID. I will try those and see if they work. Thanks.
I’ve had headaches daily for 30 years. Doctors couldn’t figure out what was wrong with me. I lived on extra strength Advil, taking 4-8 pills daily. I’m Canadian & it wasn’t till I went to Canyon Ranch & they did blood screening that I discovered I had Celiac Disease. Doctors at home didn’t believe I had Celiac because headaches aren’t one of the more common symptoms & I had to argue to get further testing to confirm the diagnosis. Within 3 days of taking gluten out of my diet I was headache free. I feel amazing & can’t believe I suffered for so many years. I rarely take any pain medication.
Celiac is one of the most common misdiagnosed diseases, as the symptoms are so varied.
I urge anyone suffering from headaches & migraines to be tested for Celiac Disease.
Oh yeah, by eliminating gluten I’m eating much healthier. Now I rarely eat prepared & packaged foods. I had high cholesterol but with the change in diet my cholesterol is normal!
i have suffered last year severe migraines put in er 3 times in two weeks, neuoloist couldnt find cause so he put me on topamax, it works i also avoid chololat and i dont have any alchohol, i am avoiding luchmeat, i am afaid though to come off the topamax, i am also on depression med, , recently my dr has noticed that my body is not retaining b 12 , calcuim and vit d, and has me takingthem could that be a contributing factor i suffe from anxiety , could it all be related to vitamin deficiency?
Thank you, Mary, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Thank you for the information.
Do you have any suggestions for those of us trying to recover from shingles of the eye. Although my ophthamologist said the infection in my left eye is gone, I still have an eye that feels like someone left their thumb it it, red, watery. Been going on fro 6-7 weeks. Help. Thanks
Thank you, Honora, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I suffered from weekly migraines for 10 years and then decided to leave my career and take time out with herbal detoxing, fasting, healthier eating and lots of saunas. Now I no longer feel tired after eating, my thinking is miraculously clearer and my migraines much less frequent (once every few months). However, unlike your description my migraines are always accompanies by a headache on the BACK of my head, never the side, and extreme cervical and dorsal spine muscle tension. They are always triggered by plasticides evaporating from new car upholstery, painting walls or simply randomly appear out of nowhere. I wonder about gut bacteria problems because emptying the colon (or in extreme situations throwing up) provides complete relief within half an hour. Gentle stretching of the cervical spine also provides temporary relief. I would be very interested in your thoughts about inhaling chemical triggers, spinal alignment problems and why emptying the colon provides rapid relief.
Our 42 year old son has had cronic cluster headaches with an extremely watery eye for nearly 9 years. He has been to specialists in San Francisco when he lived in the area. When he moved to NC he went to Duke Hospital in Durham and later to Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL. None of the doctors have given him any suggestions other than narcotic drugs, oxygen, and acupuncture. He recently resigned from his job.
I am interested in the functional or holistic medical approach to his problem. Can you help us find a functional doctor in the eastern North Carolina area?
I started getting migraines as a young child. They progressed until in my early 40′s I was getting one every other week. I started taking perscription meds which made me feel miserable. I decided to try an elimination diet and took supplements to kill an excess of yeast in my system. I saw an immediate change. I have been migraine free for ten years!
YAY for magnesium!!! Horrible headaches. Countless ER visits that resulted in no help. Neurologists put me on meds that didn’t stop the headaches and caused outrageous side effects. Couldn’t sleep. Dizzy. Chest wall pain and cramping. Racy heart. Stress. “They” called it fibromyalgia and dismissed the symptoms. I began reading and found an obscure blog called something like, “How I cured my Fibro”. And it was all about magnesium deficiency. I haven’t had a headache for over a year except sinus. No more racy heart. Chest pain is gone. I sleep so much better I actually started dreaming again. No relief from fatigue but I found a fabulous naturapath I’m working with on adrenal burnout. I swear it was the magnesium that saved my life. Why is a simple inexpensive mineral, as a cure, not even mentioned. Instead “they” just try to band-aid the symptoms with horrible manufactured pharmaceuticals that cause more problems than the original symptoms? I don’t even think my regular MD really believes me that it was that simple.
My 16 year old daughter has suffered with headaches for the last 2 years. She would get them 2 to 3 times a week. She also has hashimoto disease. We told her endocrinologist who suggested we talk to her pediatrician. After seeing her pediatrician we had an MRI done, nothing was done but put her on birth control pills to help with hormones. Migraines still existed. She is now off the birth control and sees an alternative doctor who put her on a natural thyroid med and acupuncture and she is migraine free after 1month on the regimen. She also has whole foods and no msg.
Imitrex has been a Godsend for me. I have tried all the above recommendations and none have worked so far. I found out the other day that I am mildly anemic so I am going to try CoQ10 and B complex and see if this has any positive results. I have suffered with headaches almost on a daily basis since I was 36. I am now 51. Headaches run in my family. I used to have WPW syndrome but my cardiologist tells me now that my accessory pathway or pathways are no longer active, but I still have arythymias. I have tried Magnesium and beta blockers. I now take Pindolol. Could the Pindolol cause headaches because I have heard that beta blockers can cause headaches and in some cases help headaches. Caffeine has the same properties. I can’t ingest caffeine because it makes my heart rythym problems worse.
I have had Migraines for over 38 years, which feel like I am having brain surgery, with no medication. The pain is so intense! If I stay away from all MSG products, wine, and champanes, I am fine. MSG is in many canned soups and most processed products and has hidden names. Foods that lack preservatives has been the answer for me.
Eating foods that do not have Tablespoons and teaspoon of fresh garlic, olive oil, fats and chemicals and additives has been to key to feeling good. These
ingreadient cause intense cramping, vomiting and diarreha. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables from the USA and staying away from any processed foods has been the answer. A soluable vitamin also helps, with high doses of different vitamins, allows me to feel stronger.
My headaches started out with structural problems from an accident. Then in my late twenties I was diagnosed with hypoglycemia. I changed my diet and began a regiment of megadose vitamins. Through the years my headaches got worse. I was drinking diet cokes and eating artificial sweetners.
I was in another accident and diagnosed with TMJ. I began to have headaches again. I was then diagnosed with allergies. 2 yrs ago I was told I had a gluten problem. I bought your book and the cookbook. Everytime I eat bread or crackers I have a bowel problem because of my kidneys. I was also told that 1 of my kidneys does not preform properly when I eat the sugar or the gluten.
Even though I try to eat properly I have this horrible craving every so often for something sweet. In the fall I always have a craving for bread and I just want to hunker down in front of the fireplace.
I cannot take aspirin and over the counter headache remedies do not work. I have had to resort to drugs, go to bed in a dark cool place and stay for a day or 2. I, also push myself to the point that I end up in bed. Traveling on airplanes and getting luggage in and out is a deadly experience to say the least. I refuse to let the headaches get me down. I do gardening, lift heavy objects, refinish and repair older homes and I am an office worker. I raised my 2 children by myself with all the health problems. I will not give up or sacrifice the quality of life. However, I truly want to feel better.
I had very bad migraines from age 10 – 71, several times a week. One day I was glancing through an old book by Maggie Letvin (Remember “Maggie and the Beautiful Machine?”) and she mentioned that it was a well-known fact that Vitamin E was very good for migraines. I was already taking 400 units a day just as part of my vitamin intake. My first thought was, “Oh, sure taking even more would be like magic! Uh huh?” But it seemed worth a try, so I doubled my Vit E to 800 units. Several days later I realized I had not had a migraine since increasing the Vit E. Three weeks later I still had had no migraines. That was four years ago and still no migraines. My doctor says “Do what works.”
I have told several migraine sufferers about this, and not one has been interested in giving it a try.
The book that mentioned Vit E was one of Letvin’s, not sure which one.
My migraines were triggered by food additives (MSG, polysorbate 60, xanthan gum and probably others). If I accidentally eat these additives now, they don’t cause any trouble. Fluctuations in blood pressure also brought on headaches.
During many years of seeking relief I was prescribed Vicodan, Imitrex and Maxalt. They made me feel awful, so I stuck with NSAIDS which did not help a great lot.
Thank you for this article, Dr. Hyman. I suffered from migraine for years to the point that I felt suicidal. I upped my EFAs and they went away, but they recently have returned. Reading this article, it seems to me that I may have a combination of causes. I’ll start with magnesium and drinking more water, get more probiotics, and see if that helps. If not, I’ll try the elimination diet approach. If these approaches don’t work, I will try to get an appointment with you. BTW, I also posted your article to my Facebook page. I’m getting ready to check out the 7 Keys to Ultrawellness as well.
I want you to know how much I appreciate that you included information, so that some of us can try to sort our problem out, even without making a purchase. I’ve grown so frustrated over the years with all the ads from various places that just tease you with the fact that you can learn what to do, but only if you buy their book. Many of us who have been sick for years and are disabled cannot afford to buy the books first, so we stay ill, while knowing that someone out there is holding help hostage. Thank you for “paying it forward”. Thank you for being a benefactor to humanity.
Blessings to you and yours,
Bernice
I have suffered migraines for about 30 years and about 5 years ago found that a combination of magnesium, feverfew and Tylenol eliminated it once it started. Most of the time it took only one dose but sometimes more. Now I need to find the triggers. I hope as I read this article over I can find what they are!
Bea: try eating sardines and supplement with CoQ10 dose 200mg 2X daily
Leeann: CoQ10 200mg 2X daily.
I have been a migraine sufferer since childhood-the migraine name was not put on it back then-my Mom would yell at me saying I was exagerating when I would cry in bed & tell her I could only feel better if someone would cut my head off !! I was fortunate on my 40′s to start taking CoQ10 for my heart health, in my 50′s started taking magnesium AND THEN NOTICED I WAS NO LONGER A MIGRAINE SUFFERER. Of course I had also addressed my sinus problem too. What a relief it is now-sooo rare to even have a slight headache !! TRY IT
PS.S WHEN i FIRST STARTED taking CoQ10 I was on a very low dose, 10mg daily I now take 200mg 2X daily cuz I am diabetic and take Metformin. Start with the higher dose (200mg 2X day) and when you start feeling better drop down to a lower doe, maybe 100mg a day and see if that works for you. Hugs !
You forgot chiropractic….THE number one cause of all headaches, including migraines is
autonomic disturbance of the cerv. symp. ganglion caused by joint malfunction and nociceptive
activation.
If you’re gonna make a laundry list of migraine cures and leave this stuff out???
Kinda baffles me.
Gotta fix the cause…sure aspartame and a host of other noxious stimuli could be the trigger,
but they are not the CAUSE.
I agree with everything Dr. Hyman said.
The other thing that decreased my headaches and migraines by about 50% was switching from processed to unprocessed sea salt, and then increasing my salt consumption. I was shocked at how such a simple thing was life-changing for me. I think I was suffering from moderately low blood pressure (dizzy, a lot of other symptoms), and real salt stabilizes my blood pressure.
My main trigger is barometeric pressure changes. I went to a neurologist for years. He finally gave up and told me to come back every 6 weeks for Percocet.
I never went back to him.
Any suggestions – besides drugs?
Denise
Thank you, Dense, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I am interested in the thoughts about migraine and any treatments during pregnancy. My 35 year old daughter, pregnant with her 3rd child, suffers from occasional migraines. Her neurologist does seem to think any food or external causes make a difference. The drug of choice for her currently is Vicodan! What could be done at 4 moths along in her pregnancy to possibly help the symptoms?
Your book has helped me beyond anything I or anyone (Doctor) have seen. By cleaning my diet up I have almost eliminated my migraines. I grew up with Asthma and am / was alergic to everything. The only reason I still have ocasional migraines is because of what I eat, through my own doing. I try to eat healthy, take your advice about supplements and eat only foods with one name. Thanks for the book, I sent the book to my 74 yr young mother a retired RN to help my sister with Lupus.
Thanks again
Hello
Wondering if anyone has treated cluster headaches with nutrition only
Thanks
Prozac and imitrex work 100% but only symptom control..?
Hi. Years ago, I used to get frequent migraines. My friend recommended 5HTP. I began taking it (100 mg daily) and my migraines stopped. Now I take 50 mg daily and have had no migraines for years.
I have had Migraines for over 15 years-I was diagnosed after having Lymes Disease. My mother had migraines very bad and got worse into her 50′s then developed Orangic Brain Syndrome (alzheimers?). I go to a wonderful dr at a headache clinic= but honestly still get an average of 8 a month. I have taken, numerous medications- topomax, vitamins, etc etc= the one medicine that has helped my auras is metoperol. I am now trying Namenda. Thinking about taking a hormone that will give me only 4 periods a year hoping that will help with hormonal headaches. Imtrex has been a life saver for me…and occaisonally to break my cycle i take a round of steroids which is also a wonder drug. My biggest triggers seem to be when I dont sleep enough or sleep to much and hormones. Maybe I will try Magnesium again. Any suggestions?
Thank you, Donna, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
nucca then another ciro to the T and l or the spine. Once the spine is aligned up to the atlas ans axis most everything falls into place. No pressure onthe brain stem then.
Al the musclees in the spine are connected from the cervical 1 down to the hip.
No one thing is a cure but this is the bomb.
Nucca everyone needs this just like getting your annnual physical each year or teeth clean. Maintain your health with Energy therapy also.
In dentistry we have had considerable success treating migraines/chronic headaches/TMD with a particular type of bite split. If constructed in the correct way it can reduce the intensity of the contraction of the jaw muscles. (www.NTI-TSS.com). These conditions often have a multifactorial aetiology and a variety of presentations so it should come as no surprise that they are susceptible to a number of different treatment modalities. The principle of reducing the causative factors or increasing the patients resistence is a sound one. The magnesium connection is important and often overlooked.
I have suffered from migraines my entire life. I have tried literally everything I can think of: gone off caffeine, prescription migraine meds, OTC pain relievers, neurologists, physical therapy, CT scans. No one has ever been able to touch them. But every doctor was treating the symptoms. I have a large amount of symptoms every day of my life, some that never change, like headaches, nausea, constipation, anxiety, depression, fatigue. And others that come and go, such as feeling sick to my stomach, insomnia, and dizziness. It appears that I best fit into the magnesium category, but I could also fall under chemical (Im a gum chewer, have aspartame in my system 14+ hours of the day) or food allergy. Can you help??
Thank you, Alicia, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I’ve had migraines since I was a teenager. My dad had classic migraine with the aura (sintillating scotoma). My strongest known triggers are primarily fresh fruit (banannas, grapes, oranges and several others). Interestingly, I can tolerate fruit that is not fresh fairly well – without getting headaches. There are several things that have helped me over the decades: 1. Learning to warm my fingers at the first sign of symptoms via self-taught biofeedback. It’s easy to learn if you stick with it. 2. Catching the headache very early in its development by taking Excedrine and Advil. (Excedrine is best for me because it has caffeine which I considered the miracle drug when I first tried it in my 20′s.). If I don’t catch it within the first ten minutes, pain meds with or without caffeine don’t help much. 3. Regular heavy cardiovascular exercize. Daily running for about an hour worked best for a year in my 30′s, then I got stressed at work and went back to being a couch potato with migraines. 3. Avoiding diatary triggers. This is much more difficult that it may sound because of variable food conveinience and the fact that you can never be 100% sure what your triggers are, especially when everybody in the literature says that your triggers (fresh fruit, in my case) are essential to good health. 4. Avoiding the fumes in a kitchen when someone’s doing a lot of cooking. I’ve had headaches disappear when I opened a kitchen window. 5. Avoiding caffeine withdrawal – not avoid caffeine itself. I’m very caffeine sensitive, in the sense that it makes me feel better and have a much more outgoing personality – as long as I don’t take too much. If I take too much, the good effects disappear. Also, if I take too much caffeine for several days, the headache-stopping effect of the caffeine in Excedrine no longer works. It is relevant that I have to struggle with self-discipline to keep my caffeine dose low and level from day to day. Usually I drink yerba mate these days. Black tea gives me bad breath after a while. Coffee has too much caffeine for my system. Let’s be honest, caffeine in my life is a true addition – both physical and psychological – but in my case, the positive benefits seem to outweigh the known negatives. So I have made the choice to remain addicted to a low dose of it. Without caffeine I’m shy, isolated and lonley at work. Try this, you won’t like it. lbnol (laugh, but not out loud). Nevertheless “caffeine withdrawal” is the most common cause of my headaches. It’s difficult to take the exact same dose every day, and when I don’t I suffer headaches every time. 6. I take hight dose vitamins, fish oil, antioxidants such as grape seed extract. I was an “ovo-lacto” vegetarian most of my life (for religious reasons – SDA church) and now as an apostate (lbnol) I eat salmon and very rarely chicken or read meats. I excersize vigiorously six days a week. I avoid my triggers as best my discipline level and vigilance allow. But I still get headaches, most of which are mild because I treat them early with biofeedback (warming my fingers), Excedrine and Advil. I much prefer prevention to pills, despite the fact that I’m one of your average “evil doctors” (M.D.). I hope some of this info is useful to someone. I don’t have the answers, obviously, but I’m learning and constantly experimenting with my diet and living habits. One other thing, please pray for Japan, especially if you do not believe in God. It seems to me that an atheist’s prayers would touch God’s heart in a powerful way. Think about it.
My husband has suffered for endless years with migraines (from a child – parents did not create healthy babies) that become apparent when the “barometer changes” the weather to damp/humid and back to clear ( both) in all seasons.
He does not get the light fluctuations of some of the typical migraine signs but bring on the barometer and he suffers terribly!!!!
All doctors on our medical plans (not alternative) give out drugs and no other help – we try to follow a healthy/natural foods diet – he has to be on coumadin for past blood clots and hospital time. Is there any one who gets this barometer- type migraine and have any solutions – probably called a miracle??!!
Hello.. and thank-you so much for making your work available for me and others to read with regularity.
Do you have any doctors that have been through your program who practice in or near Surrey, BC/Canada? (Surrey is about 40 minutes east of Vancouver/BC)
Please advise if you have any kind of directory for (preferrably..) naturopaths, or physicians in my area (S.West BritishColumbia) who have been through your training process and have qualified therein.
THANKS again!
Dave Munday
I am a 62 year old female diagnosed with Auto Immune Disorders. I had a thyroidechtomy 30 years ago and now have developed another nodule in the remaining thyroid). I have developed progressive osteoporosis from taking synthroid for 30 years, and the doctor keeps reducing the dosage due to the osteoporosis risks. I was diagnosed with glaucoma at age 21 and was subscribed pilocarpine for the first 15 years (have permanent constricted pupils from the drug) and went on timoptic so I wouldn’t have 6 hours of blurred vision from the pilocarpine). I was able to get a job but the timoptic use over a 15 year period caused Severe migraines and Severe sinus infections; I also developed reynauds (circulatory problems in hands); and high blood pressure from timoptic use (which is permanent). I stopped taking timoptic and the migraines and sinus infections became less intense. I also have IBS, Gerd, Hiatal Hernia, Stomach Inflamation (taking motrin) cataracts, COPD (asthma, emphysema) and cannot breath around fumes. I have also developed diverticulosis from being constipated most of my life. Being on synthroid .150 for several years helped tremendously but since the doctor has reduced the dosage, all my symptoms from previous years have returned. I take fioricet for headaches because all other drugs are too strong and cause severe side effects. I develop inflammation of the body often and cannot function normally. The headaches come about twice a month and last about 3 days. I’m usually in bed with an ice pack until the worst of it subsides. I exercise (but sometimes exercise brings on symptoms of tightness in the chest and weakness). I’ve gone off red meats, breads, and have tried kefir cultured milk (better than yogurt). Nothing really helps. I’ve read that low thyroid can trigger many of my symptoms, but my blood tests are in the “normal range”. But, since I have developed another nodule, I believe it could be low thyroid. I am retired and on limited income and cannot afford an alternative doctor that is not covered by my health insurance. I avoid most RX drugs due to the severe side effects I have encountered. Beta Blockers affect circulatory problems; Diovan affects joints related to R/A. Other HBP medications affect Acid Reflux, Stomach inflammation, and Diverticulosis. My blood pressure does not stay high unless I have inflammation going on in the body, otherwise it is about 130/85 – the same as if I was taking a HBP drug. I cannot take Xanax because of the side effects – either irritability or so weak I cannot stand up straight – and nausea. I have not been able to take my vitamin pills due to swallowing problems. I’ve had a colonoscopy and Endoscopy and nothing was found except the small hiatus hernia, stomach inflammation, and diverticulosis. I am taking chewable calcium supplements, vitamin c & d, and COq10 (smaller pills). I also have developed kidney stones and cysts (during the time I was on lisinopril for HBP), and had to stop taking lisinipril when I developed the “cough”. The pain from the stones and cysts improved greatly once off lisinipril. I think I could deal with the headaches if I didn’t have the other inflammation problems throughout the body. I’ve had the flu once in my life and do not take flue shots. The virus’ that I seem to get are related to the auto immune disorders. I had to stop taking prilosec on a daily basis due to severe back pain (but take it occasionally when needed). I’ve learned from using timoptic for glaucoma that drugs can cause more severe problems than not taking them. Will I go blind – maybe, but at least I’m not in bed from crushing headaches and severe sinus infections that made me feel I was going nuts. I have chosen not to have eye surgery – I was told I was high risk due to constricted pupils, myopia and the risk of detached retina. I believe the thyroid affects many areas of the body, but if you cannot get a doctor to work with you on your medications and dosage, you will remain ill forever. I’m currently looking for another doctor that accepts my insurance.
Thank you, Ginna, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
As a therapist I have seen patient’s migraines result from overthinking and/or repressed feelings- especially repressed anger. When people get grounded and let their emotions process normally the headaches and migraines can disappear for good. Dr Hyman’s suggestions are good, but often the mind is at the root. Also, it is not uncommon for highly sensitive empathic people (HSPs) to get migraines in processing other people’s energies and traumas unconsciously.
I started my migraines when I was around 28 yrs. old.
I had them all of my life until about two years ago. I am now 74yrs. old.
The strange thing is I really do not know why they stopped.
I was put on Imitrex when it came out. After many years and many
different medications it was the only drug that worked for me. I felt
like it was a miracle drug. I do realize now it does have side affects,
but they were nothing compared to the migraines. I also have Asthma,
and allergies,and sinue trouble, I believe this is all connected.
Hope this helps!
I was extremely sensitive to sulfites. Horrible migraines. I read that the liver needs molybdenum to change sulfites into beneficial sulfates. http://www.liverdoctor.com
This has helped me tremendously. I can now enjoy a glass of wine and dried fruit.
I use Source Naturals sublingual molybdenum.
I have had migraines. I had them quite a bit in my teens and then they appeared again in my late 30′s. As I reached my 40′s, I noticed a pattern. I would only get the migraine on the 2nd day of my menstrual cycle, not premenstrually, as mentioned above. I could almost clock it.
The migraine pattern is almost exactly the same every time. It starts with a feeling of neck pain and proceeds to come over my left forehead and eye, like a helmet. I get nauseated and end up vomiting at the end of about 10 hours, and then I feel better and it’s gone.
I have tried altering my diet, adding magnesium,vitamin B6, probiotics, not eating common triggers like chocolate, bananas, etc., chiropractic and acupuncture. It seems like the best thing has been Network Chiropractic. It seems to have broken the pattern somewhat, and now I get them only occasionally, with stress, but still only at my menstrual cycle.
I had migraine headaches for approximately 20 years. It appeared they were primarily hormonal as they would occur during the few days prior to the onset of my period. At first I could sleep them off. Then I had to start taking large doses of ibuprofen and finally triptans. I believed the headaches would stop after menopause. That didn’t happen. The head pain became less severe but the overall malaise and gastrointestinal problems related the the migraines got worse. I finally decided I had to find out what was actually causing the headaches. I also had depression and chronic constipation. I had testing done for food sensitivities and it turned out to be wheat. I stopped eating wheat about 18 months ago. I rarely have a migraine. The constipation is gone and the depression has greatly improved. I have worked on healing my gastrointestinal system with probiotics. I would urge anyone who can’t figure out why they have migraines to consider food sensitivies as one avenue of inquiry and find a health care provider who is committed to finding the underlying issue.
My debilitating migraines began in 1986 when commercial growers had to stop using carbon tetrachloride as a fumigant for grain and nut storage and began using organophosphate pesticides. I found the suspicious connection in an article my mother found in the Wall Street Journal telling of the change in pesticide in 1986. It seems the first was causing cancer in the farm workers who were exposed to it, so some nimrod had everyone switch to organophospaphates which were something diluted from nerve gas…killed the little moths and worms all right. Most humans have an enzyme that breaks down this pesticide, but about 10% of us lack enough or any of it and so organophosphates, when ingested or inhaled, act on us just like the nerve gas causing something close to shock with the migraine. It took me the better part of five years to discover and eliminate every food product containing it from my diet. This included things such as soy sauce that is made from wheat, barley malt that is a flavoring in most breads and cereals, and even in some so-called organic products. Organophosphates were sold to home gardeners in the form of Dursban and others which thankfully are no longer legal for home use, but commercially, they are still used as fumigants and crop pesticides. So go 100% organic and know your sources. USDA organic is NOT 100%! If I get ANY of this chemical group, I also get a 3 day migraine. Apples (pectin) help.
I hope this helps some of you who haven’t found your migraine trigger.
I take a feverfew capsule every morning, I watch what I eat, no MSG no nutrsweet.
I don’t eat any salads that have nitrates to preserve the freshness.
I also take magnesium malate, vitamin b-12,NAC,glutathion,alpha lopic acid,among other things.
I only eat food that I prepare myself from fresh fruits and veggies with out hormones etc.
I still get migraine sometimes, the worst trigger for me is fragrances, perfumes, colognes,cleaning products. I won’t allow anything with fragrance into my home.
Since menopause is almost complete, I don’t the migraines as often
I have suffered with migraines for over 30 years. I have tried everything. From all kinds of meds and supplements to having the allergy test Dr Hyman suggests plus having all of my silver and rooot canals out. I have tried elimination, magnesium ettc. I have the book Dr. Hyman has. My Dr. suggested I read it but when I asked him to do some of the other testing he said he doesn’t do that. I have been on different triptans for years. Been to the ER I don’t know how many times. I am also on Hydrocodone and Soma. Is there any help for me . Sugar did not show up on my allergy test but it definitely gives me migraines. I have chronic daily migraine now. IS there any help for me?
Thank you, Liz, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Vitamin B12 can also be effective…
i get migraines at least 2 to 3 times a week and they always seem different… most of the time i take am imitrex and it usually works but not always…. and ive ended up having them so bad that yes i have been one of the unfortunate people to go to the emergency room! and even the 2 to 3 shots of dilloted dont even do the trick which make me believe that you may have something here! I also take propanalol for preventative purposes…. but i dont feel any different… i have an appt with a neurologist on tuesday but i highly doubt theyll find anything… migraines made both my mom and father suffer for years.. so i have kinda almost given up on hope that they can do anything…… i think you may be my last hope…. please anything you can do…. i would really appreciate it…. the only thing is that with my job i cant take anything that will impair my senses in any way. ive been lucky that the imitrex actually doesnt do anything other than take away the pain… but again please help if possible!
Thank you, Angela, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I’ve had migraines since i started menstruating at age 10. Am post-menopausal now, and migraines have decreased in frequency and intensity dramatically,so I guess that points to hormones, like Dr. H says, but I still get one on occasion, especially related to stress, dehydration or lack of food. Was diagnosed at age 26 with hypoglycemia after a new doc refused to renew my ‘sript for Cafergot. Controlling the hypoglycemia through diet – instead of the pills – helped a lot, but was still plagued with them through my 30′s and 40s. I found my triggers to be *anything* red grape (fruit, juice, wine, vinegar), excess sugar consumption, especially at night, and – very severely – aspartame. Also discovered I couldn’t tolerate hair perms; always had severe migraine the day after. Some other strong smells will do it to me, as well, especially anything sulphur. So, for me, the best prevention was avoidance of these triggers (although stress is a bit of a challenge in this life!) However, one trigger I am powerless to avoid is oncoming storms, especially fast moving snow or rain storms known as ‘china clippers.” Any thoughts on what to do to head these off?
Interestingly enough, after trying various meds including the cafergot and another newer drug, my ‘treatment” of choice is pseudoephedrine Hcl (generic Sudafed) and an NSAID like IB or Aleve. Does anyone else have success with this? I also often get relief from cammomile tea with or without ginger. Only rarely these days do I have to resort to a Vicodin and/or an anti-nausea like compezine.
I have been using 400 mg B2, 200 mg CoQ10, and Mg for 5 months. I still get almost daily migraines. This regimen did seem to improve my muscle & joint aches and brain fog. I also had hormone panels done and was very low in progesterone which I am now using a progesterone cream. Acupuncture didn’t work. I’m on a very restricted diet to eliminate artificial food additives, tyramine containing foods, and other common food triggers. I’ve had migraines since 2004. Initially they were premenstrual but now almost daily. I am perimenopausal so I believe hormones are a big factor. I also take meds for asthma and reflux. In fact, when I went on Rx for reflux, migraines became more frequent. Headache is listed as a side effect. I’m considering surgery to help reflux. I wish I could find the magic bullet. Triptans help but are very expensive. Migraines affect personal relationships, jobs, finances–it is a constant stress.
When I first started getting migraines nothing helped, imitrex, zomig, maxalt all had little to no affect. I suffered with these headaches for about 7 years before my car accident kicked them up a couple of notches. After the accident I was getting them 3-4 times a week and was ready to shoot myself. My neurologist put me on Ergoloid mesylates 4x per day. These are an ergot alkaloids which act as neuroprotective anti-oxidants and are also said to increase blood flow to the brain. These drugs helped considerably as my body was getting over the trauma from the accident. Eventually, I weaned myself off the drug to see how bad the headaches would be. They returned about 2-3 times a month so I consulted a naturopathic doctor. Through keeping a food/headache diary I discovered that my headaches were cyclical. I would be most susceptible to a migraine around ovulation or menstruation and the severity would be influenced by nitrates, sulfates and MSG.
My naturopath suggested supplements of magnesium, evening primrose oil and a woman’s health herbal formula as well as eliminating those trigger chemicals from my diet (especially around my period). The frequency and severity of my headaches has greatly diminished. Now that I have taken the dietary and hormonal factors into account, I can usually completely eliminate a headache only 5mg of Maxalt and an Aleve. They still get me, 1-2 times a year I will be flat out sick with a migraine but I can live with that.
I’ve suffered left-sided migraines for over 10 years and have discovered a number of triggers including dust and mold, dehydration, sulfates (drinking wine is impossible for me) and strangely enough, carrying heavy bags on my shoulders – I guess this is a structural imbalance. I saw a neurologist, had an MRI and also saw an ENT before and after the neurologist. There were no abnormailities in my brain or sinuses besides a deviated septum (common) and sinus polyp (also common).
What helped me the most was the relief I got from being able to talk to someone who understood my pain without diminishing the severity of it, and one small piece of information: that it is imperative to treat the migraine at the very onset. Seems simple but I didn’t know that!
This winter I started taking probiotics and my general health has been much better. What I do now to prevent migraines is make sure I am always adaquately hydrated, stay away from known triggers, and if I do start to feel a migraine coming on, I just take two Excedrin Extra Strength immediately. I was prescribed sumatriptan but have been afraid to try it. Although my frequency of attacks has decreased dramatically I know that there is more to discover in relation to my general health and diet so the journey continues.
My headaches lead to “fuzzy” eye pain and notable slowness in speed of thinking, decision making. A few years ago I discovered an energy supplement that made a significant difference. When it was no longer available, I tried a neurotransmitter supporting weight loss product that has two neurotransmitter supporters, brown seaweed, caffeine 100 mg, B6, Chromium Polynicotinate, trace minerals, kelp and coral. I learned that my body was craving the right nutrient levels while I also lost all excess fat. My key focus is on the brain being in balance and the diet being balanced, simple, and as clean/organic as possible. I now feel healthier at 60 than I was at 25 and am strong and alert enough to care for my husband since he lost the last of his walking due to overmedication for Parkinson’s complications. We both have imporved over the past 8 years and we both know that what Dr. Hyman explains in his functional medicine is so helpful for allowing the body and the brain be healthy and correctly communicating in balance. I do want to define more specifically what in the supplement keeps my daily reoccurring headache gone, in case it also is no longer made available.
I am a practising chiropractor and nutritionist. I think its a shame that Dr. Hyman only mentions osteopaths for structural issues and neglects mentioning chiropractors who are the leaders in structural problems and alignment. Although the entire spine needs to be in alignment, the relationship of the upper cervical bones (vertebrae),the cervical nerves that wiggle out between these closely spaced bones, and the musculature of the neck and shoulders are especially relevant to headache and migraine sufferers.
i have never seen a headache or migraine patient that didn’t also have extremely tight neck and shoulder muscles, and often tight jaw muscles. Body work, as well as diet, food sensitivites, and digestive issues, all seem to help with the migraine package.
Hello,
My daughters migraines went from once a week to once every five months. The thing that has worked for her is the magnesium, feverfew, riboflavin combination. I was told she was short on magnesium because of Lyme.
I had years of migraines and irritable bowel syndrome, and episodes of irritability and mental fogginess all resolved with a single treatment that corrected a minor malalignment of my atlas on my skull ( Atlas Profilax).
I had never believed in this condition, until I hit upon some information that allowed me to make the clinical diagnosis by feeling the crooked bone in my neck myself.
In my case the headache component of the migraine came from spasm of my occipital muscles, and the nausea came from irritation of the vagus nerve by my head forwards posture.
I have considerably more faith in complementary medicine, and physical therapies, and much less faith in my career of allopathic medicine than i used to have.
Hi, thank u . this has been the most informative and sensible articles I have ever read in my life . Have been having right sided migraines for the last 22 or so years of my life . From what Julie’s website link says ( and a big grateful thank u to Julie) I seem to have a magnesium deficiency . I am going to read deeper and get myself cured finally. There is hope after all!
Recently i started getting bad headches & migraines that last forever I can get 1 in the morning and take a panadeine and then by afternoon have it again then night start getting it again, after not getting rid of it, I find I feel better If i have plenty of water, and plenty of veg & fruit with no processed food I eat, they started to get bad just last year with a diagnosis of diabetes type 2 and kidney disease, Have not found it to be a particular source of food yet though, still trying.
I am not really sure what I should eat with kidney disease but I know fluoridated water is bad and lots of protein is to so I try to eat around 75 grams a day.
could you tell me what I should avoid, eating in this case.
thank you Dr Hyman for your research & hard work.
Thank you, Liz, for your message and interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
A few years ago my migraines were ruining my life. In one particular span of 23 days I had to take a total of 17 Treximet just to get out of bed! Severe seasonal allergies and fibromyalgia also plagued me, and it was obvious allopathic medicine was unable to make me whole again. In desperation I turned to my own inner voice, which lead me to see that if inflammation was not CAUSING the problems, it sure wasn’t HELPING them either. I knew I had to calm my body system down.
Everything changed when I eliminated gluten and dairy, started drinking green smoothies every day, and focused on raw foods (about 50% of my diet). Not only was there a complete turnaround of my life-sucking medical trifecta, but I also lost 40# of weight that had stubbornly clung to me.
My professional background is in nutrition — I am a registered dietitian who had years before become disillusioned with the field. But I’ve fallen back in love with it and now assist others in making life enriching changes in their diet and lifestyle. And there is yet more I can do for my personal health; Dr. Hyman’s writings continue to clarify issues I can correct to make this the best stage of my life!
I have had migraines since I was a teenager. When I was 32 , I had a baby. I ended up needing a major transfusion& surgery. Ever since that day, I have had migraines almost every day. They interrupt every aspect of my life. I feel as if I have tried everything as well. Lots of magnesium,homeopathy, bio-feedback,acupuncture, chinese herbs,massage, energy work, chiropractic, food allergy tests, feverfew,pro-biotics,cleanses,and finally bio-identical hormones and an anti-depressant for prevention.I eat lots of whole foods, no processed foods and try to do as much organic as I can. My migraines have had little to no relief. It is taxing on family & budget. I know how people feel when they say they are at the end of their rope. Where do you go from here, if you feel you have tried all avenues with no success.
Any other ideas????
Thank you, Lisa, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
This is the best treatment of treatments for migraine that I have ever seen and I have read everything I can find about migraine for many years. I suffered terrible migraines for over 30 years. There were related to my menstrual cycle and I hoped thay they would go away after menopause but they just got more sporadic. After a heavy bout of antibiotics at the age of 50 I got diahrrea, which often happens, but it didn’t go away and after a month I sought medical help. My physician started testing me for parasites and bacteria but I didn’t think that was it. I started experimenting with diet- first elminating lactose for a month, then fats, then finally I hit on gluten and bingo- the diahrrea stopped as well as a host of other symptoms and after a couple of months I realized that I hadn’t had a migraine. Of course I had to test the diet and every time I ingested gluten I got a migraine. I’ve been virtually migraine free for 13 years now. I still get a mild one on occasion after eating out because even though I try to be careful, restaurant kitchens are not gluten free and cooks are not all up to speed on what contains gluten. Just the tiniest bit is too much. At the time I was very surprised to learn that wheat could be an enemy. Thanks, Dr. Hyman, for putting it on your list of common causes of migraine. It’s not always easy to eat gluten free but it’s getting easier all the time. General Mills now has a TV ad for their Chex cereals that are gluten free! GF has really gone mainstream! Btw, I don’t know if I have celiac disease or just an allergy. Neither tests are valid while on a gluten free diet but I am not going back on a gluten containing diet to find out.
I have struggled with migrane headaches since I was 12 years old. When I was in my early 20s I bagan to have severe and debilitating joint pain such that I would be in bed for days at a time.
I have greatly reduced wheat glutens and corn from my diet. I still eat dairy but have limited it to Goat Milk products (I miss ice cream). I do not eat any processed foods – I learned long ago that fake sugars, sodium nitrates/nitrites, MSG, sulfites caused severely debilitating headaches and diarrhea.
My doctor put me on continuous birth control pills and that has really helped my migraines. Even with all of the diet restrictions I found that i would get 3-day migraines in the middle of my cycle – indicating a hormone imbalance.
I eat regularly (5x p/day) and really struggle to keep my meals organic and minimally processed. I still have occasional headaches but they are not nearly as bad (controllable with OTC drugs). I exercise 3x p/wk but my job is stressful and the schedule is chaotic.
I think that I will ask for the tests that you have suggested and stop cheating on my diet
Thank you for for your post.
I’ve suffered from migraines since I was 12. They have gotten worse with every passing year, and I’ve struggled with years where I would have daily chronic headaches. I am thankful for my migraines, however, because they have forced me to live as healthy as possible. I’m on a gluten-free, casein-free diet, and eat whole foods, everything made from scratch. I take magnesium, vitamin D and cod-liver oil in addition to a multivitamin. I also take Nature-throid for my underactive thyroid. It’s been a slow journey, but every year I hone in on the imbalances in my body, and I feel like I’m getting healthier all the time. I recently cut out sugar and caffeine entirely, and it’s making a huge difference. Lack of sleep and stress are my two biggest triggers right now. Every time I have a baby, the first year is a doozy! As long as I get 8 hours of sleep, and run every night to work off the stress, I do quite well.
No luck yet with the migraines…. could be caused by my displaced right occipital fracture, c-spine or lumber fractures?
Maybe the forced movement with spinal fractures(and unfixed rib and pelvic fractures) is the cause.
Its not always dietary though .
Just like Leeann in the previous post I have tried all of the things that were ever mentioned in the literature, on-line or elsewhere that was supposed to help relieve migraines. Nothing worked. I eat well and exercise. I don’t drink or smoke. I sleep well and try not to stress. But…
I am in my late 30th and have one child and only god knows what this pregnancy was for me. I barely made it through. I almost did not gain any weight and my child, though carried to term, was only 6 lb at birth. I usually take Zimig to control my migraines and lots of it. I can’t function without it. But not when I was pregnant. I wanted to have another child and I still do, but I am scared because I know what it would be like.
I take Drugs that my neurologist prescribes to try to manage my headaches, they don’t really do much for me and that is not what I want my life to: dependent on drugs for the rest of it. I don’t have any other options it seams like…
Thank you, Boston, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I suffered for 25 years with migraines. I always suspected my teeth had something to do with these headaches and a few weeks after our son was born, some friends came to visit and see the new baby. I had just finished with a migraine and when I answered the door, my friend asked what happened to me, that he thought I looked like I just went through the war. When I told him it was the migraine, he told me that he had these headaches when he was in the service. They sent him to a dentist, they removed his wisdom teeth and he never had another migraine. The next day I called my dentist for an appointment and he referred me to a dental surgeon. Two days later I had the wisdom teeth pulled and never again had another migraine. That was in 1977. I have been migraine free for 33 years now.
I get my migraines usually from flashes of light, then for up to about 6 hours i can only see half of what I’m looking at, or I feel like half of what I’m looking at is just not connecting in my brain. After that I see flashing lights in a pattern of what I call a Navajo blanket.. zig-zags, when its finally starting to go away the outsides of my eyes feel numb. All I have ever tried is emitrex. The headach I can stand most of the time, its what the Dr. called is an aura(?) is what I hate!
I have a chemical reaction to chocolate (cocoa), in any quantity and whether consumed or by contact with skin it causes migraine. This started when I was in my teens. I have found that if I take an anti histamine tablet (I am in UK and I use Piriton) and one or two painkillers, it usually goes away completely if I catch it at the start. The problem with migraine is that one of the confusing symptoms is that you don’t always immediately recognise that it is starting. Another home remedy is to make a cup of tea with bergamot (Earl Grey) or failing that have peppermint growing and make a herb tea with a couple of the leaves.
I was told by an allergy clinic that it is not an allergy and is chemical, but I treat it as an allergy and it works.
I’d like to add something else out of interest, I was also told by the same clinic that I had no allergies when I tested negative although some of my allergies are extreme such as swelling of eye whites when close to guinea pigs. I was accused of having taken anti histamines during the days prior to testing. I hadn’t but I HAD been taking a regular dose of Kefir. I mentioned this but was told it couldn’t possibly be the reason I had tested negative even though my eczema from childhood had completely disappeared after a short time of using it regularly.
I am 100% certain that it was the Kefir, this doesn’t do anything for the chocolate induced migraines though.
my apologies for posting this comment firstly on sott by mistake.
I’ve had migraines for about 15 years but the past 4 years they have become exponentially worse – more severe and frequent. I have them almost everyday. I avoid all the food triggers that I know about like dairy, peanuts, nitrates, citrus, most alcohol, etc. I exercise, sleep, am not overweight and reduced my stress by taking a different job but none of it helps. I’ve tried acupuncture, allergy shots ( I have a lot of allergies), nutritional response therapy, massage, sinus surgery, eustation tubes in ears and dozens of medications. Right now I’m on enderol (blood pressure med) and take maxalt and vicodin almost everyday. Last year I had occipital nerve decompression surgery and brow lift surgery to remove nerves in my temples and around eyes. It eliminated occipital nerve pain (back of head) and pain around eyes but I still have daily migraines with severe pain on the top of my head and both sides. The main trigger that I can identify is the weather and change of pressure. I get a migraine every single time the weather changes (clouds or storm come in or go out) or it rains. I even get migraines when I leave my immediate neighborhood and enter a different microclimate. I’m like a human barometer. I am in pain everyday and it’s ruining my life, I miss a ton of work, don’t make social plans anymore and frequently cannot take care of my daughter. I’m desperate for relief. Any suggestions?
Thank you, Dina, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
My migraines started over twenty years ago. They had just gotten worse and worse (near constant head pain and at least 2 migraines a week) until I read a book that gave me a list of the food triggers. I put the list on my refrigerator and avoid all the foods on it! I started doing this over a year ago and have been nearly migraine free! I still get migraines when I travel and they are very bad, so would love to find out how to avoid those. The main foods I avoid: all alcohol and caffeine including chocolate, all of the processed chemicals (MSG, aspartame, etc), cheese, onions, tomatoes, nuts, yogurt, apples, fresh baked breads. When people ask me how I am able to avoid all these things, I tell them it is easy because now I am not living in constant pain. And for people with migraines who are not willing to change their diets, they must not be suffering like I was!
Yes to B2, CoQ10 and magnesium. I take all of these and they have helped immensely. I still get the occasional migraine, but it’s usually the result of “stealth” chocolate (chocolate always brings on the migraines), extreme stress or lack of sleep. I still believe the biggest help to me was getting off of Premarin, which I regrettably took for about 20 years.
My migraines started 9 months ago. They occurred every day, some days were better than others, but I was hardly functional on the good days. I am a Chemical Engineer and have a very scientific approach to documenting and solving problems… this migraine issue led me from my family doctor to a headache specialist then to a neurologist , a chiropractor and a functional medical doctor. I was prescribed all sorts of medication, as each one failed, a different med was prescribed with ever increasing side effects.
My solution came in two parts, one; I followed Dr Hyman’s book and cleaned up my digestive track, started a regime of fundamental supplements and……
The final and most effective solution for me was the use of the trigger point manual to release the undetected tension in my neck and shoulder muscles. Now as a scientist I would never believe that this trigger point release would relieve and prevent my migraines, but it really did. I have been migraine free for the past 8 weeks, and I mean no headaches at all. I now pay very close attention to my posture all day and night (make sure my pillows allow my head and neck position to be correct.
Again folks I am the biggest critic of what I consider to be fringe science, but this really worked. I spent a lot of time researching this after it worked and like many programs there are many folks “selling” this but really dont know what they are doing. I found two real experts in this field. One is in Tuscon Arizona, her name is Bonnie Prudden the other is Amber Davies from Louisville Ky. So look them up on the web and good luck.
You mentioned a woman whom you treated with a nonabsorbable antibiotic for her gut bacteria imbalance. What was the name of the antibiotic? (I am sensitive to some antibiotics.) Thank you.
When I asked about the non-absorbable antibiotic, I forgot to mention that my migraines are chemically-induced. (I’d have the head pain, along with seeing an arc of flashing lights and a black cross-hatched pattern–then part of my field of vision would blur as if someone had taken an eraser and wiped it out. I’d become dizzy and nauseous–several times with forceful vomiting and chest pains that landed me in the ER.) Finally an ER doc said, Oh you have classic chemical migraines. I’d never heard of that before and some other doctors haven’t either. (I was working in an area where there was toxic molds and chemicals–genetic tests showed I do not detox “normally” and now I am sensitive to jjust about any chemical.) If I stay away from chemicals and airborn particulates, I don’t get migraines. I use daily sequestering agents to help me detox, along with a “Neural-sensitization Protocol” devised by Dr. Grace Ziem.
Well I find Dr Hymans work such a breath of fresh air at last someone who looks at the cause. My first question is – Is there anyone in Ireland who is trained in his work? I am 47, have low thyroid which was the start of the slippery slope, I take Eltroxin for this which has done little for the symptoms over the last 5-6 yrs but seems to satisfy my dr. in terms of blood results. I do suffer from anxiety, muscular pain, – a need to stretch particularly at night to try to relieve pain. Latterly headache and middle ear pain, constant nasal drip (in winter months) very poor circulation, Etc.Etc. I know wheat is a no no for me and I know alcohol and tea/coffee. I find my head very sensitive to even the lightest wooly hat ie. it gives me a head ache. Ifeel as though my head is not draining properly. I really need proper diagnosis. As everything I do is hit and miss. I am pre menopausal i think as I am noticing periods are now 24 days regularly. Wish I knew what all these symptoms mean and what effectively I can do about them.
Any help would be much appreciated.
Thank you, Ginny, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Is there any treatment that is effective with weather changes like storms, barometric pressure, etc. I use magnesium citrate, CO Q10, Super B complex. I take Amerge for relief.
I am 77 years old and had my first migraine 3 months ago. I have since had two more. I am wondering if taking high doses of magnesium might get other minerals out of balance. I suspect that my problem comes from the colon as I have had severe constipation for 10 years and seem to be allergic to wheat, which I avoid. I have tried probiotics and detox formulas to no avail. I would be interested in hearing if anyone taking the magnesium has had a problem with mineral imbalance. This article doesn;t say what dose. I have been taking 400 mg of magnesium daily. Maybe Dr. Hyman would comment.
My migraines began after a car accident, 17 years ago, and they only respond to triptans once they start. Hormones, gluten, magnesium, chocolate/wine and stress all seem to be related. The frequency decreased when I went gluten-free, and the symptoms you mentioned cleared up. I am on total hormone replacement and have not found the right balance yet. Mg helps with muscle cramping. Stress has been chronic because of the symptoms, and their effects on my life. I am still hoping to be migraine-free and clear-thinking some day soon, and I think there must be a combination of these things that will get me into balance, but right now, am a bit of a wreck.
Thank you, Orlee, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I am 56 years old and have had migraines since I was 30. For years they seemed related to hormones and my periods but they have gradually gotten worse and worse and to the point where I am afraid that they will soon be daily. I went through menopause 6 yrs ago and thought that would end them but they only got worse. I am a dietitian and eat very well. No sugar, no artfificial sweeteners, lots of fruits and vegetables. I have no GI issues. I drink very little alcholol and have tried not drinking it at all but it didn’t help. I have tried Botox, Riboflavin, as much Mg as my body can tolerate which was quite a bit when I was also using Elavil. I have tried Feverfew and every herb that comes along that may help. I take Culturelle, probiotic. I have tried anti-depressants, a couple of different anti-convulscants, I have tried acupuncture, chinese herbs, osteopath, chiropracter,and biofeedback. None of which have helped. I get plenty of sleep and am on a beta blocker. I have been tested for food allergies, including gluten, and do not have any except for a very minor reaction to peanuts that the Allergist did not think was signficant. Next i am thinking of trying meditation, which I have tried before, but this time possible with the help of a Specialist. Any ideas or suggestions? These headaches are a nightmare.
Thank you, Nancy, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I stopped getting migraines when I started keeping a food diary and made notations of when I was getting these awful headaches. It was definitely sorbitol, certain red wines (chianti), ripe bananas, caffeine, and chocolate. I no longer eat meat, but when I used to, there was a direct link to processed meats (deli meats, hot dogs, ham, anything ‘pink’ —a guaranteed migraine within 24 hours. The affect isn’t immediate –it sometimes is as much as 20 hours later—so keep a diary and see where the links are. IT’s worth giving up anything to live migraine-free.
I am 41 and have suffered from Migraines since I was 16. Figured they were from hormones since I always got them around the time of my period. I had a complete hysterectomy when I was 35, my headaches seemed to be a little better but they came back so now I am without hormones, am on Topomax, just diagnosed with Osteoporosis, and still getting migraines. I just had an experimental procedure done. They put a cervical nerve stimulator in to try and stop the pain. It has worked for the most part but I am still getting a few headaches. I guess I need to try and see what exactly the true cause is and be my own advocate since none of my Doctors seem to be on my side.
About 5 years ago (during peri-menopause) the Psychiatrist started me on Paxil for “generalized anxiety”. I was also told that because of a family history of ‘depression” most likely I would have to be on psychotropic drugs for the rest of my life. I never liked the idea of being on what I considered chemicals that “balance” my brain for even one day much less, the remainder of my life! My intuition and common sense told me “this is not right” After almost 5 years, a 30lbs weight gain, no libido, and high cholesterol, I told my MD that I wanted to get off Paxil. I had not yet read any of the articles written on how these drugs really do not work, nor “balance” the brain chemistry. I have deviated from my point… during the peri-menopause period I also suffered from Migraines including insomnia, irritability, crying for no good reason, achy joints,( especially neck and shoulders )and the horrible migraines that would some times hit me with similar symptoms one gets with the onset of food poisoning. For 2-3 days, I would take 800mg. of Ibprofen and herbal teas to ease the pounding headache, irritable bowel, and nauseas. Some times, I would still go to work in pain. For the last 15 years, I felt that I was pretty much on my own with my medical care. My MD’s offered Imitrex, Zomig for the migraines, but once on Paxil, I stopped with the migraine meds. Once on Paxil (which coincidentally coincided with transitioning into menopause), the migraines came less often, which made my quality of life a lot better. My MD suggested that Paxil helped with increasing serotonin levels, thus less pain. I recall as a young girl how my mother also suffered with terrible migraines. She had a hysterechomy in her late 40′s early 50′s and subsequently went into full blown menopause over night. She suffered with insomias, migraines, hot flashes and anxiety. MD put her on HRT (Premarin) but the migraines never stopped nor any of the other symptoms. She was later diagnosed with Parkinsons.
I also recalled how my grandmother suffered for years with debilitating migraines. She would lie in bed for 2-3 days with a support stocking (the ones used for bad leg circulation) tied around her head to get all the pressure points. If I recall correctly, she would also receive an injection of morphine for the pain. My grandmother also use to subscribe to one of the first ‘nutrition and vitamin” magazines called “Prevention”. We lived in a small town which bordered with Mexico. I do not know where my grandmother read or heard about some “natural” treatment from Germany sold only in the Pharmacies in Mexico but every month she would cross this little plastic ivory colored box with large red letters on the front of the box from Mexico to US hidden inside her purse. She did not know if it was legal to bring it across the border. She took some capsules ( she claimed contained minerals and vitamins) for several years. By God, those migraines went away! She use to give her testimonial about this vitamins from Germany and how she no longer suffered with the migraines to every one who knew how sick she use to get. Several years after my grandmother passed away and I was already an adult, I accompanied a friend to a pharmacy in Mexico. She wanted to purchase some Retin A. I happen to see that infamous plastic ivory box on a shelf behind the counter. I pointed to the box and very excitedly told the pharmacist,”I remember that box!” “Is that from Germany?” The pharmacist answered that it was. I said, “my grandmother used to take that treatment for her migraines and she was cured”. The pharmacist laughed and said “this is used for erectile dysfunction”! Being the stubborn woman that I am….I asked, how long that treatment had been used for ED and she said for over 20 years. I asked if they contained any drugs and she said that it contained vitamins and minerals, no drugs. I asked to see the box.. I recall that it contained B-complex, and magnesium. Now, I sit here more than 25 years later and I find out on your site that this is one of the ways to treat migraine headaches. I do not know what is used for ED but, I do know that my grandmother improved her quality of life more than 30 years ago with vitamins and minerals!!
I have so much to say that I deviate. Back to Paxil, I weaned off it as told by my doctor. I felt ok, but not great, during the tapering process. I felt pretty good for about a month after I stopped the Paxil. Then, I started with what I can only describe as a “buzzing” sound on the right side of my head which would come and go all day long for about a week. I finally decided to call my MD. The nurse told me to come to the office ASAP and to have someone drive me. My brain felt as what I could best describe as foggy. The MD checked my blood pressure and checked my eyes (I imagine to see if there were signs of a stroke). He did not see anything that he felt warranted more tests and told me it was probably a migraine without the pain. The buzzing continued daily for about a month before it just went away. My gut told me that it had to do with the Paxil.
Where am I now after about 3 months off Paxil. I’m back to feeling anxious, thoughts of impending doom, lost 10 pounds of the 30lbs gained, I have low back/hip pain on most days, I have migraines about every 3 weeks, no libido, tightness on the back of my neck where my where it connects with the back of my head, pain on my left arm, occasional insomnia (mostly due to anxiety). My cholesterol is 300 and I am on a statin (which I want to stop as soon as I get it to normal). I walk, I stretch, I take Omega 3 with D-3, multi vitamin, calcium/magnesium, Joint care vitamin, Vitamin E. I try to stay away from sugars, breads, bananas, dried fruits, no wines, cheeses, processed meats. I drink more water too. I feel overwhelmed as I am on my own again. My MD recommended I see a Psychiatrist, and a psychologist. Previously, my MD has referred my to a Neurologist for the neck pain and she diagnosed me with ‘myofacia’ pain and prescribed gabapentin….which I refuse to take. Recently, I had a whole panel of lab tests (6 vials of blood) and results were all within normal range except for lipids. I printed out my history with this doctor which dates back to 2009 and continues until this month of April 2011. When I read all my visit diagnosis, I felt sick to my stomach. Nothing has changed since 2009. The complaints are consistently the same: Depression, Hyperlipidemia, menopausal problem, spondylosis of lumbar joint, decreased libido, migraine headache, cervicalgia, lateral epicondylitis, bursitis of hips, dizziness,dyspnea,
I have been researching your site, Dr. Mercola’s, Dr.Lipman’s and many others. I’ve been on a mission to find my own answers, my own diagnosis, my own cure. Through my researched, I came across your website with names of MD’s and other health professionals who have taken your seminars for functional medicine and practice here in the San Diego area. I called several of them and I found one I particularly liked: Dr. Neil Hirschenbein in La Jolla. I made an appointment for the last week of April. But, I’ve encountered another problem. I knew my current health Insurance provider (Kaiser Permanente) had not me my needs as previously discussed. Although, we are paying $1200 per month for Cobra (husband was laid off however, is now working) and as of April 25th my new health insurance with Anthem EPO will come into effect. The cost is less (approx. $650 per month) HOWEVER, it will not cover any costs with Dr. Hirschenbein!!! I understand why many doctors do not deal with health insurance providers as these providers do not allow doctors to do their jobs, which is too HEAL their patients with alternative, functional, naturopathic or whatever deemed necessary. I feel frustrated, angry , betrayed and once again on my own. I pity those less fortunate who don’t have health insurance and depend on community clinics for their health care. At the very least, I am able to choose a doctor from a list of different medical groups who on a good day can give me 15 minutes of his time!
Any good suggestions?
I have the occular migraine aura usually with no pain right before my period or
this month it was during my menstal cycle the fourth day and I did have pain after the aura went away. I am 42 and I never had these till a few years ago and i eat an
all organic diet and take magnesium every day right before bed and I have tried accupuncture and chinese herbs as well with some relief. I just went three months without one but yesterday i had one wich is upseting. I read your article Dr.Hymen
and I am going to try some of the tests for hormones and food sensitivities that you talked about. I would welcome any help feedback.
Thank you, Teresha, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I have sinus migraines and burning sinuses above eyes. I use a nasal flush, but take up to 5 generic fioricet a day. I have been on a gluten free, dairy free organic diet since last Oct. Did lose @ 28 lbs. that I gained from too many cortisone shots for arthritis in hip. Have CFS since 1080, when I came down with a month long illness and now realize I have had Fibromyalgia, probably since 7 or 8 years of age. Poor sleep – need 4 mg clonazapam to sleep and use generic ultrum and fexeril. I take Vitiman D, which was low, CO Q 10, B complex, and have started magnesium citrate. Have tried joint supplement with some effect. As I am aging – 69 – I have more CFS meltdowns, sleep for over two days to recover, then can’t sleep. Since I work, this is a real problem. Have never been an over eater but @ 40 lbs over weight, and have not lost more than above with new diet. What would you suggest I have tested.
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
Dr. Mark Hyman,
I enjoyed reading your comprehensive analysis of Migraine. I particularly like to see that you have some good to say about acupuncture. I have been in practice twenty years and for the last ten have employed an analysis and treatment based on the Classical texts of Chinese medicine. This is taught throughout the world by Tran viet Dzung, MD who is co-author of numerous translations of these same texts.There is clinical efficacy in treating acute migraine as well as in the treatment of precursors to migraine.
Having seen such good results I am committed to sharing this information in the pursuit of helping more than just those few who reach my clinic. A very high percentage of migraine patients who present in my clinic have three common symptoms that relate to the energetic pre-condition to manifest megraine. They have cold feet, they have sinus affliction and they flush easily as with a glass of wine.
I would be pleased to pursue a discussion with you regarding what has been written down two thousand years ago and is still pertinent today regarding migraine. If you are interested you can reach me at the email listed above.
Thank you.
Andy Lininger, L. Ac.
I have been having migraine headaches for the last 8 months. Often the headache are not debilitating, but is low grade around my eyes , temples and the back of my head. The aura that comes with it is quite frequent. I have seen flashes, but often have black spots and zigzags on the right side of my vision. Right before my period, the headaches get quite severe- i often have to lay down in a dark room.
I’ve tried many different types of medication. I’ve tried elimination diets, I’ve been to the naturopath and i’ve had an IGg food sensitivity test done. The only food I was sensitive to was Whey Protein. I have taken magnesium and b12 supplements. I’ve also been on a gastrointestinal herbal formula and another herbal formula to help balance my hormones. I’ve taken lots of probiotics, I exercise pretty frequently and eat a fairly healthy diet. I’m currently going to the chiropractor, I’ve had many acupuncture treatments done. Nothing seems to have worked so far. Recently, I’ve been to the neurologist who prescribed me amitriptyline for the next 16 weeks. Nothing has worked up until this point.
I am open to trying Dr. Hymen’s treatments, but am not sure where to start.
Thanks a lot
Thanks
Thank you, Shannon, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I used to have debilitating migraines all the time, but after numerous surgeries, I finally had all of my female organs removed & I very rarely have one anymore. If I do it is usually allergy related but can be eliminated if I stay on my allergy pills. I would not wish a migraine on anyone, and unless you’ve experienced one, you cannot relate.
I have a history of migraines ever since a small child (I am now close to 65).
Initially, I connected them to light sensitivity, travel sickness, then to hormones as they used to come with period cycles and sometimes alcohol.
From very severe attacks they have changed over the last 10 – 20 years to low grade ones that lasted for days, weeks and the slight feeling of pain and sick feeling hardly ever left.
With the many things that I have done over the last 10 – 15 years, supplements, diets and some life changes I have managed to reduce them to infrequent episodes that sometimes do not return for several months.
Till the past few years they have reduced in severity even if they do return.
I have connected a lot of my migraines to gluten (which I have found very hard to believe). I can tolerate an occasional slice of bread or pastry but once I eat it regularly for a time I will get sick. In addition I have found that chocolates and wine (probably the preservatives in them) will also give me a migraine or msg.
Over the last few years I have found that I will sometimes become unbelievably tired for, no reason, and this is a sign that I have eaten something wrong.
Overall, I feel very smug in that I have found this out on my own and feel I have got my life back.
Nevertheless, I have recently got two bad migraines in a row – have not had one of these for the last few years. I put it down to too much gluten in my diet.
Unfortunately my system is very complicated with multiple allergies and sensitivities including dairy which I have just discovered. After finding this out I started eating gluten, thinking that it was dairy that was my real issue. Unfortunately they are both (having had two severe migraines recently)!
I have just been reading about latent inflammation on your site which I am sure I have however, after reading your recommendations, I feel I have been trying to do most of them for years. Keeping to my diet of foods that I can eat is most difficult as it does not leave much to live on.
I have no real question just a comment to say to others that migraines can most certainly be food related. I suffered with them for years before realising this.
Thank you for all the valuable information on your site.
Hi Dr Mark and others,
I was suffering from almost daily migraines- I started taking magnesium supplement- 350 mg daily exactly 1 month ago, in addition to 100 mg included in my Lady Vita tablet I take almost daily.
The migranes have become much much less- In the month of June I have had them only 4 times!!!
But since past 10 days I have noticed that there are blisters on & below my toungue
I think it’s because of the magnesium because thats the only new thing that has happened recently- the weather is cool and I am drinking enough liquids.
What should I do? I am taking vitamin b and c now and putting glycerol on them. Could it be that I am taking too much mg? If so, how should I modify my dosage?
Looking forward to hear from you soon!!
Best Regards
Anna
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I am living in Europe and there is no way I can visit your clinic- so I will be very grateful, if you could reply here- It’s just the blisters and the right amount of magesium to take…
Anna
Thank you for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. To locate a practitioner of functional medicine in your area see the “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website. Here you will find a place to enter your zip code and look for practitioner’s in your area that have completed the institute’s five-day training course in functional medicine. Understand that not all of the doctors listed here will fit your particular needs. Many different medical professionals complete this training, and you will have to do additional research on your own regarding a particular practitioner’s approach and whether or not it fits your specific medical requirements. This may include calling the practioner’s office, visiting his or her website, and/or scheduling a consultation.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I was having migraines constantly and the only drug that helped was MAX-ALT.
Topamax was not helping after months and months on it and the PA just kept
Increasing my dosages so I was walking around like a zombie.
I miracously discovered Dr. Mark Hyman’s article and wrote the list
of blood work that was needed to FIND THE CAUSE OF THESE GRAINES:
Celiac, (tested for gluten)
Magnesium,
IGg Food Allergies,
Vitamin B,
Hormonal imbalance(saliva test)
and Urine and Stool test for possible bacteria in the gut.
The PA was just doing his job and just wanted to test today for the HPylori
bacteria thru a breathing sample, and then I was to come back to the office
for each and every other test. As this is how many PCP offices run now, one test
Or subject per visit.???
I said NO,and I was tired of feeling sick and wanted the blood work done today.”
Low and Beho, I was + for celiac, low on magnesium, and low on vit B.
He tested me for IGe allergies which I did not ask for, I said IGg. There is a difference.
I also was not tested with the urine and stool samples, or saliva tests on that day,
but the blood test was sufficient enough for me.
I changed my diet to gluten free and lo and beho, GOD BLESS AMERICA AND
DR HYMAN, I AM OFF TOPAMAX AND ONLY GET A HORMONAL MIGRAINES WHICH THE MAXALT USUALLY HELPS.
If the opportunity arises for a doughnut in the am, my choices are have the dougnut paired with the migraine or skip the doughnut and not have a migraine.
Its an easy choice, I will pass on the doughnut.
If I need to be bad, I just go get a bowl of ice cream instead.
However, now lies the question what is the CAUSE OF CELIAC?
Cuz to be honest, I would like to have a doughnut.
Research shows according to http://www.celiac.com that celiac may not ALL
Be genetics and emotional stress plays a role, and can cause
Celiac!!Well, the question now
Is CAN THE VILLI IN THE INTESTINE BE REPAIRED??
Anyone? Anyone? Email jamjewlz@yahoo.com.
However, I wonder if I have some kind of gastric enzyme missing
Or if there is a bacteria that could be causing the celiac??
I was told migraines sufferers only tend to be woman, but as a young man, and i consider myself to be very fit and healthy at age 28, I used to suffer from excruciating migraines to the point where i could not function. Symptoms of nausea, partial sight loss, a head that felt like it was about to explode were incurable with the strongest tablets.
In my quest to eliviate the problem, I cut certain things out of my diet. Eventually i worked out that TEA/COFFEE/SWEETENED DILUTE JUICES/COLA/ CONCENTRATED FRUIT JUICES and basically anything but WATER and milk was the cause of these Migraines. The migraines don’t come immediately after drinking these things, but tend to come on a day or two later. Now cutting tea out was very hard as nothing relaxes you like a hot cup of tea but i have found tea to be the worst culprit(No sugar, Just tea and milk). If i cut these things out of my diet, i still get headaches every now and then but they never to get the migraine stage and are very mild. When i introduce tea or any of the above guaranteed migraine a day or two later.
I cut out all refined sugar 9 months ago and have almost completely eliminated migraines. When i have gotten one, it’s been extremely mild.
i have been suffering from frequent migraines for about 10 yrs now…i have tried to figure out what the triggers are and simply have no clue…i eat well…exercise…take vitamins…tried feverfew…been on preventative meds like topamax…seeing a PT/chiropractor….been to every doctor there is…had every test done…and yet the migraines keep on coming. They come several days everal month…not just before or during my cycle…it’s anytime….the only thing i haven’t tried is accupuncture…don’t think my insurance covers that…very frustrated and have run out of options….feel like there are no soltuions…i am 40 yrs old and am just plain tired of this….the headaches are my only symptoms…just the nasty pain…always in the front of my head in my eyes….had my eyes checked too. any suggestions??
Hi Angie, thank you for your comment. We cannot diagnose you over the Internet, if you are interested in seeing a practitioner of Functional Medicine please check “Find a Functional Medicine Practitioner” link at the Institute of Functional Medicine’s website.
Wishing you health,
Dr. Hyman Staff
when ever i walk or study for a little while my head starts paining and i feel weak and just want to sleep why does it happen so with me from the fast 4 weeks???…
Thank you, Shifa, for your message and your interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. Your question and constellation of symptoms represents a complex medical condition. Questions regarding conditions like these cannot be answered in a responsible manner via the Internet.
If you would like information on becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center please see “How to Become a Patient” at http://www.ultrawellnesscenter.com. That site is designed to give prospective patients a comprehensive source of information about The UltraWellness Center. You may also feel free to call The UltraWellness Center at (413) 637 9991.
Regardless of becoming a patient at The UltraWellness Center, it sounds like you need to consult with a doctor. Please seek medical attention for the issues that you outlined in your message.
Wishing You the Best of Health!
I can’t seem to pinpoint any one type of trigger for my migraines with aura. Sometimes it seems to happen if I drank too much the night before and sometimes if I grind my teeth too much while sleeping. I don’t know which method to try….
All of the ideas are good-I tried most of them with varying results. I finally got rid of them after a sleep study. My almost daily migraines were due to sleep apnea. They’ve almost totally disappeared since I started using a CPAP machine.
I have been having migraines since I had my daughter, 12 years ago. Pain behind one eye mostly, plus sometimes I get nausea, vomiting, and always sensitivity to light and sound.
I have Zomig, but doesn’t always help. Ibuprofen helps sometimes, but the only time I find relief is to lie down and try to sleep. Sometimes I still wake up with it, other times not.
I’ve learned that stress is a huge cause, as well are some foods (chocolate). I try to avoid stress and chocolate.
What tests can I ask my doctor to perform to try to finally alleviate this huge problem?
Hi Marcia,
Thank you for sharing your concerns about your migraines. Migraines are tricky and can be triggered by everything from stress, hormones, diet to allergies, sleep and mood. To properly diagnose we always first recommend you try an elimination diet, similar to the Ultra Simple Diet http://www.ultrasimplediet.com and see what other foods (other than chocolate!) might be triggering your migraines. Also, being deficient in certain nutrients might be a culprit- especially magnesium and B vitamins! Check out this youtube for more info from Dr. Hyman on migraines: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_yBWWHClxo
In good health!
Lizzy
I have suffered with nightly hypnic headaches for over nine years. I have seen several naturopaths, a homeopath, had accupuncture, eat a plant based mostly natural diet with whole carbs. The only partial relief that I find is with caffeine although am not a heavy coffee drinker. Would welcome advice or even just to know anyone else who has the same problem.
Hi, Dr. Hyman!
A friend just recently told me about your studies and great results. I actually suffer from daily persistent chronic headache. I got a headache on the right side of my head about 3 years ago and it has never gone away – ever. It is quite painful and prevents me from enjoying life. I’ve been to all kinds of specialists, experienced numerous tests (CT Scans, MRIs, lumbar puncture, etc.), but no specific diagnosis has been revealed. I’ve tried over a dozen prescriptions, with no success.
I also have high cholesterol, which is controlled with a statin. My diet is okay, but not great. I am fatigued often, and don’t get a lot of exercise, as I usually just don’t feel up to it. I am in decent shape, not overweight at all.
Can you offer any advice or suggestions that may help me?
Thanks,
Joe in Boston
Hi Joe,
Thank you for your interest in Dr. HYman’s work and for sharing your story about your headaches. Yes, very debilitating and hard to deal with in your daily grind for sure! You mentioned that your diet left some room for improvement. Some foods are known to trigger inflammation and cause symptoms such as migraines and aches. Have any of your specialists mentioned an elimination diet? An example is going off a commone food sensitivity or allergen such as gluten for 3-6 weeks and observing any positive changes or relief from headaches. How does this sound to you? There are many potential sources for your headache nutritionally and environmentally and unfortunately we cannot diagnose over the internet. The best care might be for you to be seen in person by a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman. Go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org, scroll down to locate a practitoner and enter your zip code for local service.
We truly hope you find relief soon.
In good health,
Lizzy
I like what you have to say about migraines, but I have a question. I am a chiropractor and I would like to know why you didn’t list chiropractic when talking about structural treatment for migraines?
Hello, I have perhaps a different angle of migraine onset…
My migraines began just two years ago following a severe head injury. I fractured my skull in two areas and needed a crainiotomy leaving me with just a 20% chance to live. Thankfully, I beat those odds and am so grateful to still be alive, but still suffer from daily headaches and severe weekly migraines that have me in the ER rooms and/or hospitalized for additional pain relief when my daily methadone, topiramate 100mg 3 x daily, oxycodone, tizanidine and migranal fail to control the pain level my migraines reach. My migraines also come with stroke-like symptoms and sycope episodes that put my head injury in further danger that have my neurologist very concerned and have now involved a cardiologist as when my sever migraines occur, the random sycope episodes show my heart rate reaches as high as 216 (normally my heart rate is perfectly normal). I have been told time and time again…my case is very complex, and again, I am thankful to be alive, I just feel at times…living with the level of pain I am…even after two years…is there good news somewhere for someone like me? Prior to this injury I have never had migraines or suffered from any severe headaches so I am unsure my eating habits have anything to do with their onset. I have always been into healthy living/eating, never smoked, take vitamins and am a tea drinker and make sure to take B-12.
I am respectfully asking if Dr. Hyman has ever assisted a patient with migraines that have onset after a sever head injury and crainiotomy?
Thank you!!!!
Lisa Marie
Hi Lisa Marie,
We are so happy to hear of your successful outcome! Thanks for sharing your story and showing an interest in Dr. Hyman’s work. We advise you to seek out a local functional med doctor like him in order to get your needs best in the most efficient and safe way as we cannot dispense any medical advice online… To locate a doctor who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
In good health
Lizzy
I’ve tried everything listed above here and more: and nothing has worked. And I didn’t just try them for a couple of days. Magnesium (even infusions), CoQ10, B2, potassium, grape seed oil, and others I can’t even remember. Right now I am trying feverfew. I’ve also tried all the preventive meds you can think of (probably upwards of 20 or 30, including multiple anticonvulsants, blood medications, beta blockers, etc.). The triptans, fortunately, usually can stop most of the pain, but stil lleae my groggy for at least a day. Sometimes I need narcotics, although I try not to take much for fear of “rebounds,” when you have migraines 2-4 times a week that’s kind of difficult to avoid. Muscle relaxants occasionally give some relief in massive doses. I’ve ended up in the ER approximately 2 months because they won’t stop, they give me dilaudid, zofran, and magnesium, the combination I’ve figured out works the best. At times i’ve taken steroids for recalcitrant migraines. I’m currently undergoing the Botox trials. I’ve also tried chiropractic, massage, and acupuncture. Regular massage by an amazing masseuse is great, but they are hard to find and it is a huge budgetary constraint. I think chiropractic could help, but again, this is not evidence-based and most chiropractors try to make you come in constantly instead of gradually helping you get better, and again, unaffordable. I thought I found a perfect one but it turns out he was sexually harassing his staff.
I’m definitely far from perfect, but on days I don’t go to the gym or practice yoga, I still walk 2-5 miles per day. I was trained as a yoga instructor and meditate. I’m a student in public health, also, and my professor on complementary and alternative medicine, a naturopath, has taught me to be very careful about supplements in general — most, when studied and chemically analyzed, contain many contaminants and virtually never contain what they purport too. Plus, DSHEA laws do not provide for any rigorous oversight of the production of these products.
I am a vegetarian and take B12 and D3; my levels are great, including my iron. All my levels are normal other than, I believe, slightly lowered bilirubin on last check-up. I have a family history of migraines (paternal grandmother, maternal aunt, younger brother).
I never use artificial sweeteners, avoid processed foods, and absolutely avoid tyramine. I focus on whole foods when I can. I do not eat soy. Unfortunately, certain foods (which I believe contain tyramine) that would be great to include are triggers: nuts, avocados, bananas. I eat nothing aged. I do eat gluten, but I have been tested and, if anything, seem to tolerate wheat better than many other foods.
My triggers are usually related to weather, which, of course, I can’t control. I also have chronic insomnia and anxiety, which everyone says magnesium will help. It did not. I even tried going off of birth control (which I’m sure you probably don’t like people to take, but it’s my reproductive right and it helps painful periods), and that did not help. In fact, I am off of every medication which could even potentially cause headache.
So when you say you can help anyone, I’m doubtful. I’ve seen integrative practitioners as well as top neurologists. At times I feel like I’m not going to be able to succeed in many things because of these migraines. They have only gotten worse as time goes on (the past 11 years).
Hi Sharon,
Thank you for writing and sharing about your journey with migraines. We have complete sympathy for you and hope that your 11 + years on this road comes to a hault soon. Food and nutrition can be a major player in triggering migraines. Have you considered a complete elimination diet? I know you mentioned that gluten is well tolerated but if your digestive tract is at all compromised than there may be other foods (including gluten. can’t rule it out!) which are triggering you other than the tyramines. Dr. Hyman’s UltraSimple Diet is a safe and effective thorough elimination diet. For more information on this program please see:http://store.ultrasimplediet.com/
I know you have worked with many practitioners. Have you explored functional medicine much? It’s possible many of your symptoms might be related and a trained functional medicine practitioner can help you understand what the underlying issue is which is triggering the migraines as well as other symptoms ( i.e.: menstrual discomfort). To locate a doctor near you who practices functional medicine like Dr. Hyman, go to http://www.functionalmedicine.org/practitioner_search.aspx?id=117 and scroll down to where it says “locate a practitioner” and enter your zip. Progress accordingly from there.
We hope you access care soon. For more nutrition related assistance, please see: http://store.drhyman.com/Store/List/Coaching-Programs
In good health!
Lizzy
Nutrition Coaching Program