Update from last week

[HighlandCat]

Hi There,

Good news after a full day of tests in hospital yesterday which included a brain scan which I am happy to say is still there!

It has been decided I don't have GCA but migraines! Two tablets and I was a new woman. I can now go back to 7mg of prednisolone from 40mg and carry on tapering as I have been.

What a relief.....now to research migraines and do what I can to avoid them happening. Booked a holiday in Fuerteventura as a starter for 10 for de stressing 😊

Thanks again for everyone's support on this site it is the best thing for my sanity to know you are not alone xx

[Hollyseden]

Great news. Migraines are not ideal but so much better than GCA and big doses of pred. I suffered from them for years and had so many different prescriptions but pink migraleve worked best for me. Just saying incase you struggle to find most effective relief, worth trying different ones though maybe have to be careful taking along with Pred.

[HighlandCat in reply to Hollyseden]

Thanks for the advice x

[PMRpro Ambassador]

That's a potentially better option!!!!

[HighlandCat in reply to PMRpro]

Definitely 😊

[Soraya_PMR]

That is good news 👍🏼

I was diagnosed with migraines in 2011. TBH the headaches are negligible, the sight loss (lower outer quarter) was somewhat disconcerting initially. I’ve never had to take anything other than paracetamol. OTOH my next-door neighbour has the most awful migraines I’ve ever witnessed, and are paralysing in their intensity, requiring paramedic input. Ghastly! I hope you’re closer to my end of the migraine spectrum HighlandCat.

[HeronNS]

Any thoughts about what your triggers may be?

[HighlandCat in reply to HeronNS]

Stress if definitely a big factor for me but I am looking into other possible triggers.

[SheffieldJane]

Good News HighlandCat! Have a wonderful holiday and de-stress! What a relief!

[TooSore]

Things to consider when looking for triggers: stress or immediately after stress is relieved, sinus headaches, hormone changes, changes in weather systems- a good front coming through, dark room or hallway with bright light coming through a window, fatigue. For me it is almost always a combination of things.some people have certain foods to stay away from.

I have learned to be attentive to warning signs. I get unfocused spots in my visual field that move and pressure more than pain. If treated immediately, the headache is less intense when it shows up a bit later.

In addition to medication, a quiet dark room, cool washcloth on the forehead and a nap are helpful.

I also find caffeine helps!

[HighlandCat in reply to TooSore]

Thanks for the advice. Stress is definitely a big factor for me and I will need to have a chat with my boss when I go back to work on Monday so that I can relook at my work load.

Like you I do find having a cup of coffee helpful but I did wonder if it's the fact I have taken a break to have the coffee 😊

I have a friend who can't have lemons but luckily I seem to be able to have a slice of lemon in my gin and tonic with no ill affects.

Take care Cat