Neurologist Appointment

Today's appointment with the neurologist was easily the best appointment I've ever had when it comes to my migraines.  Dr. Bender is not only a neurologist, he is also a headache specialist.  He even went to a headache conference just a few weeks ago!

After going over my migraine history, my current migraines were given a name:  Transformed Migraines.  Not only did he give them a name, we decided to change a few of my medications.  

It turns out the blood pressure medication I've been taking, both for blood pressure and for migraines (Propranolol), can also cause depression.  Since I am taking 2 different antidepressants, one for the migraines and one for depression caused by the migraines, it seems silly to be taking a medicine that can cause depression.  So he changed it to Lisinopril.  There are 2 things that make me happier to make the change: 1) I will only have to take it once a day instead of twice like the Propranolol. 2) I will no longer have to avoid grapefruit.  :)

I also get to stop taking one of the antidepressants!  Yay!  I've always thought it was a bit odd to be taking 2 different ones.

He also wants me to limit my Butalbital to twice a week to cut down on the possibility of rebound headaches.  I also have been directed to cut out caffeine.  That is going to suck.  I've cut back on the soda and have been drinking more tea.  Now I am supposed to cut that out.  At least he didn't tell me to quit cold turkey.  I can actually brew my tea as half decaf and half caffeinated.  This way it will be a bit easier to get the caffeine out of my diet. 

Even with all of these changes, or maybe because of them, I'm really looking forward to working with this doctor.  I get to see him again in 6 weeks.

Wish me luck with all of these changes!