Why the treatment isn’t working – recent study

There’s reason to be optimistic – for some.  That’s what a Danish study in a Neurology article last month tells us.

This study started in 1989.  Groups of migraine and tension headache sufferers were evaluated, and then reevaluated in 2001.  Of the migraineurs, 27% had experienced remission.  There was improvement among the rest as well.  Of the tension headache sufferers, 45% had a maximum of 14 headaches per year.  That’s great for them, but why are they doing well when others aren’t?  The interesting part of the study is what the others had in common.

Common factors among those who weren’t responding well to treatment?  Of the migraineurs, the ones who were not responding well to treatment were the ones with a high frequency of migraine, and those whose migraine attacks started before they were 20 years old.

Of the tension headache patients, the ones who had a poor outcome from thier treatment were again those who had lots of headaches, also those who had coexisting migraine, sleep problems, and – a lack of . . . marriage.  That’s right.

There’s lots of good news, of course.  For example, migraine treatment has come a long way since 1989, and even since 2001.  Also, these are more clues to help us help those who are still suffering.  What’s the connection to sleep?  Recently I was reminded of the sleep problems of a condition that often comes hand in hand with migraine – fibromyalgia.  What’s the connection?

It may be worth considering some of the other symptoms you’re dealing with.  Look at things from another standpoint, and talk to your doctor.  And remember, one study is no reason to rush out and get married!

The authors of the study are optimistic – they feel the results overall prove that most people are getting successful treatment.  May you and I be among them!