By Dr. Rose Giammarco,
(Neurologist Interested in Headache)
McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada
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Q #1 - What causes a headache and why are they so difficult to understand? Is there a hereditary factor involved?
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Q #2 - What are "abortive medicines" and when should they be taken? What are the ABC's of migraine? When should I consider "preventative medicines"?
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Q #3 - What is a diary and why are "triggers" so important to record? (See article on "free articles button" of our website about 'Stress & Chronic Headache'.)
Note - an article on "Caffeine: Good News and Bad News" is on our online newsletter with caffeine milligram (mg) content for coffee, tea, over the counter medicines, prescription drugs, soft drinks, etc. It is the green newsletter at the end of the website "free articles" button.
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Q #4 - Is it useful to fill out a diary? Should I ever be concerned about my headaches?
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Q #5 - Can I get into a medication overuse cycle that is difficult to arrest? I am never headache free!
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Q #6 - Should I include over-the-counter medicines with my doctor appointment?
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Q #7 - Do women with "menstrual migraine" eventually grow out of their migraines? Will the headaches continue after menopause?
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Q #8 - Has science made gains to control migraine in the last 10-15 years? Are there any risks with taking Triptans, and how do they work?
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Q #9 - Are there any risks and long term effects from taking Triptan medication?
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Q #10 - I recently heard about a new approach called Botox being used for migraines. Could I have your comments please? How does it work?
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Q #11 - Are non-pharmacological treatments used for headache? I have heard a lot about Magnesium and B12 - your comments please? (also see "Alternative Treatments" button on the Help for Headaches website.) Whatshould pregnant women do?
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Q #12 - Where can I go on the internet to look for further headache information and support and suggestions? Is there a lot of free patient-friendly information online?
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Q #13 - How much does migraine cost this country? Can headaches become disabling? Is quality of life a factor?
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