Who's part of your migraine/headache disorder care team? What essential roles still need to be filled?
I have been told by many doctors that I am an unusual case. I have also had many doctors tell me that they could no longer help me because the 'traditional' treatments didn't work. I think my father and I have covered most of the state of Florida looking for someone willing to help me find a solution to my chronic Cluster Headaches and chronic Migraines.
When I went to the Clevland Clinic (in Florida) I was referred to a headache specialist in Tampa. I was told that she was the doctor that taught all of the other headache specialist the cutting edge treatments. When I called for an appointment I almost fell backwards when I was told they had a 10 month waiting list. I was also told I had to send all of my medical records to the doctor to determine if I was an appropriate candidate for her treatments.
Seven months into my wait I was called and offered an appointment the next month; I jumped at the offer. That was almost 2 years ago. While I am still suffering from debilitating cluster and migraine attacks, this headache specialist has supported me the entire way. She doesn't ever look at me and say that we are at the end of the road. She respects when I am uncomfortable with a treatment she is suggesting and doesn't try to force me into it. With her help I continue to have hope every day.
I also see a regular family doctor who takes an all encompassing approach towards working with me. She is willing to communicate with my other doctors and make suggestions on treatment methods. She also keeps track of my medical tests and medications from all of my other doctors to help prevent wasting time and money.
These two women make it easier to just breathe.....
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