Questions about the Author

Q3. How does being a pharmacist affect your treatment recommendations to others?

A: I have seen a lot of people battle with finding treatments for their migraines. Many of them have been on medicines which cause them to have unpleasant side-effects. Some of these sufferers stop taking their medication, because of side-effects. In many cases lifestyle changes, a well-kept migraine diary and the correct vitamin supplement are all that is needed. As far as I am concerned, I would advise people to use the safest remedy at the lowest possible dosage first and then increase the dosage or move on to the next remedy after a reasonable trial period has passed. If something natural works, then that’s wonderful! If not then you have at least tried the safest option, but you still have stronger remedies available to you.

As a pharmacist I saw so many different cases of migraines and also realized that each sufferer has different needs that require individualized treatment regimens. Not all remedies work for all sufferers equally. Medicines work, but so do non-medical treatments- it depends on you and your preferences.

Q4. What is the most important bit of advice you would give to a sufferer?

A: To persevere. Finding a cure for your migraines takes a lot of patience, and requires a fair amount of trial and error. If you find a practitioner you like, stick with him/her and give feedback about any treatments that you may be on and whether or not they have been effective. Don’t discontinue a treatment without consulting the prescribing doctor and communicate with your practitioner as to what you have already tried. Keep a migraine diary to help you and your practitioner identify the cause of your migraines. Don’t despair- there is something to suit your needs out there- all you have to do is find it.

The Author | << Q1 & Q2
 

Managing Migraines: Review

By Dr. Elliot Shevel
(B.D.S., Dip. M.F.O.S., M.B., B.Ch.)

Migraine is one of the most common ailments of mankind, affecting young and old alike. Approximately 18% of women and 6% of men worldwide suffer from migraine, most of whom remain undiagnosed and... More

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