Rebound Migraines?

[Nikki1381]

Hi everyone. I have been suffering from migraines for 4 years now. They have become chronic, I have either a severe headache or a migraine every day. I'm taking preventive medications-so far my neurologist & I have not been able to find the one that will work for me. My dr. also talked to me about rebound headaches, so I have tapered down my use of triptans and painkiller (I usually take Fiorinal). I was told if you don't use one type more than 3 or 4 times a week, you can usually avoid rebound headaches. I do my best to endure the "not as severe" headaches, and only take medication when necessary. I'm still taking either a triptan or an analgesic 3-4 days a week (one of each). How do you know if you have rebound headaches or continuous migraines? My dr. mentioned that not using painkillers is the only way to get rid of a rebound headache. I tried this once, and the pain was so bad, I only lasted 4 days. Does anyone have any experience with getting rid of this type of headache? thanks!

[heathrow71]

Hi,  I have been suffering from migraines for 15 years and have taken Fioricet until more recently - Imitrex as well.  I noticed that I really had to start ramping up my use of these drugs to get rid of my migraines and started having them everyday - sometimes several times a day.  I found  a neurologist that agreed that if I kept taking so much medication I would have a headache forever.  So - I am going into the hospital on Monday for 3 days of detox!  He wants me off all the drugs - while they help me - you can't do it alone - with other things that will not give me the rebound.  I am looking forward to seeing how it works out.  I think it makes sense. He also just gave me Botox injections all over my head and neck area.  
Whatever you do, try not to stop meds by yourself and do not ramp up on the fiorinal or fioricet.  It definitely gives the rebound.  My neurologist also says that Imitrex gives the worst rebounds!  I hope this helps.  

[PaulMD]

Hi Nikki!

I know what you are going through for I have the same problem.  Migraines are really difficult to treat and even top doctors are having a very difficult time treating the condition.  The key really is constant communication with your neurologist and making sure you have all your options covered.  From my experience, soothing classical music helps as aroma therapy works for Debbieorah.  I suggest you continue with your medications and report everything to your neurologist.  If withholding your drugs would cause you more headaches then don't.  Finding the right combination of drugs at the right dose is really a feat for the patient and the doctor.  I hope and your doctor find what's best for you.  It wouldn't hurt either to try some of the alternative techniques that were mentioned.

Regards and get well...

[Debbieorah]

I also have serious migranes, though mine have now lessened, what I had found to be the most helpful in reducing not only regular migraines, but also the rebound headaches was both aroma therapy and different massage therapies. Aroma therapy was really helpful for me because it was something I could do on a regular basis. There is a roll on stick that I found (sold by bath and body works) that had peppermint and gerainum oils in it that worked to ease the migraine (though not relieve it fully). Also, there are a lot of "pressure point" type massage therapies that worked wonders on my migraines. I could go once and not have a migraine for a week (whick was a blessing since I had been having chronic migraines for over 2 years).

Hopefully that helps! Sometimes alternative medicines are a great addition to modern medicine!!!

Debbie