Headaches are interfering with my life. - Headaches & Migraines Message Board

plasticfork · 11-06-2008, 05:57 PM

I can't seem to go more than a few days without getting a headache. I've always had migraines, but now it's getting worse. If I do anything stressful (mentally or physically) I end up with a headache. If I reach up high to get something, I get lightheaded and eventually get a headache. I'm waking up with a headache 2-3 times a week. And I get this weird instantaneous pain in my head at random times. It's not so much a "stabbing" feeling, but more of a "shock", really deep in the center of my brain. The headaches are always in that spot as well. I went to the ER about a year ago because of a horrible migraine I couldn't get rid of, and they did a CT scan but found nothing, so my doctor just keeps telling me it's the migraines and to stick with my medication. Does it sound like typical migraines or should I look for a second opinion?

jammyslisa · 11-06-2008, 06:56 PM

I also have numerous migraine, but the fact that you get them from reaching up over your head makes me think you should look into chiari malformation. It could be that your spinal cord is tethered and you are irritating it when you reach up.
Lisa

dolysods · 11-07-2008, 11:23 AM

I would get evaluated by a chiropractor or if your family doc is a DO. They can do adjustments and evaluate the alignment of your spine.

Have you ever had bloodwork done to have your hormone levels checked? Keeping a journal can be invaluable in figuring out what is causing your migraines.. things i list in mine... how i feel when i first wake up, weather (including barometric pressure, temp etc), sinus/facial pain, neck pain, day of cycle, foods. I also list what i've taken trying to get rid of the pain

I would definitely seek a second opinion, probably a neurologist that has a special interest in treating migraines

NuttyNicole · 11-11-2008, 11:07 AM

I understand what you are going through. I have had daily headaches for many MANY years and I have had MRI's and CT scans and nothing has been found, but I contribute that to living in a rural area and the doctors don't know what they are looking for. If you get answers, let me know because I cannot make it through a day without the excruciating pain of a headache. It is a deep pressure in the base of my skull and I have actually tried to pry my skull up with a screwdriver at one time because the pain was so bad and I couldn't take it any more. It is good to know I am not the only one, but terrible to know we can't find help!