Bottom line... things are so much better with my migraines right now... it's a very strange feeling.
Since starting acupuncture in June, 2009 (8 months ago), my migraines have been almost completely under control. As I've written previously, I do still have them, but they are less frequent and less intense. The medicine I do take (the triptans - sumatriptan, Imitrex, Treximet - and hydrocodone for pain) work faster and better. It hasn't been perfect, but after 8 months, I can now confidently say that acupuncture has been a HUGE help in managing my migraines.
I've finally been able to do all kinds of things, and make all kinds of plans, without the constant worry that a migraine is going to ruin the plans... or strike in the middle. I was able to go and visit family for 10 days in December, and had an excellent time. I had a few headaches, but nothing like I usually have when I travel (new smells, new climate, different bed, etc.). I also just got back from a 10 day trip to Maui and my migraines were MINIMAL. I was out in the sun a lot, went swimming and snorkeling, went out on a boat 4 times and rode as a passenger in the backseat on a windy road up Haleakala volcano... and had very minimal head pain. I do still have some motion sickness, it was minimal and I was able to use those acupressure wrist bands (I have the biobands.com version) and really had very little trouble. I think that is also due to the acupuncture and lessening of the intensity of the migraines.
So, really happy news for me. This year, I've been feeling like I'm so much less controlled by the migraines, and have better control of my life. I post all of this so that any one reading it who is currently suffering and thinking it'll never get better can see that there is hope. Keep trying... don't give up.
I don't know if my good fortune will last forever, but I'm so grateful for the way things have been going this year. It's the first time in 20 years that I feel like I can look forward to planning things and be able to do some of the things I truly love - traveling, being outside, swimming, taking long walks when it's hot outside, etc. Most of those activities caused headaches in the past, so it's a hopeful time for me.
Best,
Kelli :)
