I have been going to numerous doctors and have been told everything from I am making this up to migraines to now having seen an eye doctor proving to them that I have IIH. I have had 5 lumbar punctures with no relief and two brain shunt placments with only 3 months of help. I am in crisis of losing my job becasue I am having trouble getting to work. I have tried a bunch of pills with great side effects. I was woundering if anyone has something that they can share that works for them I will be trying the accupuncture. for all the support.

Yvonne, I'm sorry but I don't remember your history. If you're in the US, make sure you use FMLA..it will protect you for 12 weeks each year. You have to work a certain number of hours to qualify, but I was missing at least a day a week and was able to keep my job. If you're running out, then look into Social Security Disability and make sure you get a COBRA or HIPPA policy for continuity of insurance coverage.

As far as pain, I'm not sure. You should get some relief from spinal taps, unless you're having low pressure. Have they talked to you about overdraining? If symptoms are better laying down and worse when up, then I'd look into that. Usually the flatter you lay the better, and caffeine will take the edge off. If it's high pressure, have they tried meds w/ the shunt? I know some members have had success w/ the combination of both. The integrative therapies like acupuncture, reiki, massage seem to take the edge off during treatment, but takes time to build up any longterm benefit. It's nice to get a break from the pain and give your body 30-40mins to recuperate, but didn't want you to get frustrated if didn't feel any relief beyond the session. I've tried them all and would be glad to answer any questions, if you want to PM me or schedule a chat. I also wanted to mention that we are more susceptible to other types of headaches, so could suffer from one of them in addition to IIH. I'd keep a symptom log that includes interventions (caffeine, acupuncture, ibuprofen, etc), food and meds to see if you notice any triggers or changes. It will help you keep things straight and give the doctors more info.

I hope you find relief soon!!!

Julie

Thank you for the information I did do the FMLA and it ran out . I have currently been off of work for two weeks straight seeing that in the wallet. For the social security I will try and make an appoinment with them but I am not 100% sure that a government work pays into the system. We don't even get unemployment. But I am going to look into the other forms of pain management that you have recomended. Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.