Monday, October 6, 2008

B is for:


Basilar-type Migraine: BTM is a type of Migraine, a little more difficult to treat then some other Migraine or Migraine with aura Migraineurs. This is because most of the medications used to abort Migraines, are contradicted for BTM. Symptoms of Basilar-type Migraine may mimic other types of illnesses, so it is very important to rule out other possible illnesses by having a CT (CAT Scan) and/or an MRI, just to make sure there is nothing else going on.



Migraineurs suffering from BTM should wear an ID bracelet in case of emergency, since the symptoms of an attack can mimic other health issues.



Botox: I'm sure you all know what this is! Yes, it's not only used for cosmetic reasons anymore! It has shown great success with tension-type headache and other conditions. It is not exactly administered they way it would be if being used for cosmetic reasons. Botox for Migraine and TTH is shot not only in the forehead, but around the jaw, and also in the back of the neck.


If you are thinking of Botox for Migraine, please check out the following links:






Just a fair warning though - there may be a lot of back and forth with your insurance, if you decide to go this route. So be prepared.








7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hey this is cute! (The ABC thing, I mean.) So, which other illnesses does basilar type migraine mimic? Just wondering.

Eileen said...

Girl you know this! LOL BTM can mimic stroke - check out Teri's article for other symptoms. That is why it is good for BTM sufferers to wear medAlert bracelets.

Anonymous said...

I know - not trying to give you a hard time - just wondered if there was something new - I don't always keep up 100% up to date. Well, can't wait to read what C is all about... keep up the good work. xxoo

Eileen said...

Oh heck! I did C last night and set it for auto post.....I don't even remember what it's about now! LOL

I know there is a kitty picture in there though!

Oh, and as always, feel free to add your own in a comment if I've missed something good! :-)

Anonymous said...

Hi,
Basilar migraine can mimic stroke, but the image of choice is an MRA which actually looks at the arteries inside the brain. Some of these can also be seen on an MRI, but for migraine and basilar migraine..CT is not the best choice. In an emergency is is used to rule out a bleed (stroke) or brain tumor.

One med that works well for this type of migraine if it is chronic is verapamil. The dose is usually the lowest 120 or 240 mg. It works as a preventative.

Basilar migraineurs should also have a TCD or trans-cranial doppler performed. This can look at the functional capacity of the arteries and also help rule out the PFO in the heart which is associated with migraine.

The condition is rare..even in migraineurs!

Anonymous said...

Yes, it's not only used for cosmetic reasons anymore! It has shown great success with tension-type headache and other conditions.
----------------------------------
And it's certainly not a terrible side effect that you end up with a wrinkle free forehead too ;)

Shari said...

My dr. is a huge advocate for Botox. I had it done 3 1/2 weeks ago and see absolutely no difference in my migraines, but I look damn good. I wonder why it didn't help. I see him in 2 weeks and he's not going to be happy.