Success: Migraine Headaches since Childhood
*My name is Erica B, and as of March 2010 I have been treated by Dawn Balusik for migraines for 7 months. I have had migraines since childhood that gradually worsened and became unbearable after the birth of my second child 5 years ago. At that time I was experiencing 10-13 migraines per month. My symptoms included excruciating pulsatile head pain, neck rigidity, sensitivity to noise and light, and nausea. Every aspect of my life was affected by the pain, and I felt I was missing out on life.
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Two different neurologists treated me over the past 5 years. I take Imitrex as a rescue drug, but prevention was the key. I tried the preventative medications Topimax, Verapamil , Frova, and oral contraceptives. One drug induced a serious reaction, and the others were of little help with many side effects. As my doctor referred me to a third neurologist, I decided to explore acupuncture instead.
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Dawn took a thorough history and formulated a plan of treatment including diet modifications, herbal therapy, and acupuncture. After 2 months of weekly acupuncture, I was experiencing less intense migraines that were more responsive to Imitrex. Sometimes the migraine would subside with an extra dose of herbs and sleep. By January 2010, the migraines were becoming less frequent and less intense even during my “high-risk” times.
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Seven months into my treatment with Dawn, my migraines are better controlled than at any other time in my life. I take my herbs daily and keep my Imitrex on hand, but happily I have only taken Imitrex once in the past 11 weeks. I never thought this day would come and had all but given up. I still experience mild migraine symptoms at times, and I struggle to keep my migraine triggers in check.
Thanks to my treatment with Dawn, however, I have made incredible progress and have enjoyed so many pain-free days. I only wish I had considered acupuncture and herbal therapy as my first line of treatment.
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– Erica B., Oldsmar, FL
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*Individual results may vary.
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