I write this with some trepidation, and my fingers crossed. I haven't had an episode of nausea and vomiting since the end of January. Is it because I'm taking amitriptyline or just coincidence? CVS seems to have a mind of its own, raising its ugly head when least expected. I have had times when the episodes have been quite frequent, regular and severe. During these times it's very difficult not to worry about how and when the next episode will occur. It's very difficult to come out of this cycle, and it can have a major impact on one's quality of life. However there is hope; as and when the frequency and duration of the episodes decreases, the all consuming thoughts of dread for the next attack do become less.
I have been taking amitriptyline for approximately 2 years and have recently, on the advice of a doctor at the hospital, increased the dose to 20 mgs. I don't like the side effects, but they are preferable to an episode of CVS. I believe the drug has made a difference for me.
I read an article recently which began with these words. "If there's one thing guaranteed to rile my friend it's people referring to migraine as just headache". These words made me want to read on. It could have been referring to an episode of CVS, and how people perceive it. "It's just being sick, it will soon pass". Oh we wish. Interestingly a professor's key advice to migraine sufferers is similar to that given to us at a recent family day by Richard Boles M.D..
He advises to even out the highs and lows in your life; he highlights regular sleep, regular exercise, regular meals, and even not too much stress, but not too little either. He suggests that relaxation can be a trigger for some. This is very similar to Richard Boyles advice. I certainly try to stick to this as far as possible.
Di Disley
Adult co-ordinator 2010
We featured two articles in our newsletters, based on a hypothetical consultation between a doctor and an adult sufferer, you can read them here.