Migraines?

[Gidds]

I was certified in 1997 but I've been "beached" for awhile. I want to start diving again and I am trying to get a physical scheduled but I am afraid I may not get clearence to dive because I developed migraine without aura in 1998 or '99. I am not currently medicated and occaisonally I develop photosensitivity and vomit. Other than that I am an unmedicated asthmatic and I have allergies, but that's no different from when I was certified, and my heart rate is slightly elevated. Anyway I'm afraid because of this the physician won't sign off, as she is not a dive or sports physician, but I really don't feel that the migraines are dangerous because it's not like they come on suddenly; they take 2-4 or more hours to become debilitating and I wouldn't dive if I had a headache and it's not like I travel. I think I should be allowed to dive what do you think?

 

[PairofMedics]

First things first...my wife and I both suffer from migraines altough she worse than I. Secondly any severe headache that has a sudden onset should be immediately treated in an emergency room. Pain is your body's signal to you that there is something wrong...so listen to it. It will keep you alive. Now, if you have not actually been diagnosed with migraines then you should see your doctor and get refered to a neurologist. Many people make the mistake of self diagnosing when they should leave that up to those so educated. Headaches can come from numerous sources such as blood sugar issues, mineral and vitamin deficiencies, sinus issues, dehydration...the list goes on. I'd find out for sure what's causing your headaches...and in doing so make sure to adress your concerns with the doc. When did they start, what triggers them, what makes them worse, any headaches underwater...etc. There are great medications out there for prevention of migraines and treatment of breakthrough headaches as well. Good luck.

 

[WarmWaterDiver]

You should definitely see not just a doctor, but the RIGHT doctor! I wasn't properly diagnosed until age 31, by a physician who also had migraines, did scuba diving for a hobby, and it was wonderful. I think misdiagnosis etc. by general physicians has a lot to do with error.

here's alink to a group that might show appropriate physicians /clinics in your area. And, BTW, did you know folks like us are 'hypersynchronized'? I'll toss that term about at work now when having a 'bad day' with headache - "I'm a bit overly hypersynchronized, can we go over this tomorrow instead?"

http://www.migraines.org/new/newhyper.htm

Pair of Medics - I have yet to find an effective preventive medication for my condition. Can you list the medications you make reference to in your post? I'd like to see what I've missed, and discuss with the right doctor for me. Thanks!

 

[WarmWaterDiver]

Gidds,

You should do a 'Search' regarding 'migraine' on this board to see other links. You may want to see a physician that's more familiar with dive medicine, but in the end, it's up to the physician whether they sign off or not.

Here's another couple of links that may be helpful.

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=88677&highlight=migraine

http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=54992&highlight=migraine