Yearning for Relief from Pain
Age: 29, Weight: 200 lbs, Location: Canada For the last month, I have been suffering from excruciating migraines that have profoundly affected my life. These headaches have been accompanied by visual disturbances, including a frustrating double vision that plagues my everyday activities. The severity escalated to a point where driving became impossible. The relentless pain has kept me in bed, completely incapacitated. As a mother of two small children, this ordeal is wreaking havoc on my life. On Monday, I was hospitalized due to incessant vomiting and extreme head pain. Imaging studies, including a CT scan and MRI, revealed increased intracranial pressure. A lumbar puncture indicated an opening pressure of 32, but a subsequent procedure showed it had escalated to 42. I feel utterly miserable, and my quality of life has plummeted to zero. Activities of daily living are beyond my capability. Additionally, the medication Diamox has caused my blood to become acidic, forcing me to discontinue it, while Topiramate has led to similar complications. I have lost 55 pounds during this time, yet I continue to experience worsening symptoms without any semblance of relief. My doctor’s request for a shunt placement at Vancouver General Hospital has been denied; the rationale provided was that it "might not be effective." I dread the thought of enduring this relentless agony without surgical intervention, as I fear it may lead me into a very dark mental space. If you were in my doctor’s position, would you consider proceeding with the shunt? Currently, the proposed alternative is an opioid patch, yet there seem to be no long-term solutions available. I feel crushed and helpless, wishing only to escape the overwhelming pain that is consuming my existence.
Answers (1)
12/13/2025, 8:50:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the excruciating pain and challenges you're facing with your migraines and the complications from increased intracranial pressure. It's understandable that you're feeling overwhelmed and frustrated given the impact on your daily life and responsibilities as a mother. Your situation clearly demands urgent attention and care.
Main Points:
- Severe Symptoms: Your symptoms indicate a serious condition that requires ongoing management.
- Concerns with Current Medications: Your experiences with Diamox and Topiramate are concerning, highlighting the need for an alternative treatment.
- Surgery Consideration: The denial of shunt placement is difficult, especially given your debilitating symptoms.
Explanation:
Increased intracranial pressure can lead to severe headaches, vomiting, and other neurological symptoms, which you're experiencing. The decision for a shunt placement is generally made under careful consideration of risks versus benefits. Your feelings of helplessness and despair are completely valid given the continuous pain, and it sounds like you're searching for viable options.
Next Steps:
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Seek a Specialist Consultation: If possible, consult with a neurologist or headache specialist who has experience with similar cases and can assess other treatment options or second opinions regarding surgery. This may include discussing the possibility of adjusting medications or exploring less common interventions.
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Pain Management Alternatives: Discuss alternative non-opioid pain relief options with your doctor. These may include:
- Preventive medications: Other classes of medications may be explored that can manage migraines without causing the acid-base imbalance you're experiencing.
- Nerve blocks or other interventional techniques: These may help alleviate pain and could be less invasive than a shunt.
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Support Networks: Since managing pain and migraines can take a toll on mental health, consider engaging with support groups for chronic pain or migraines. Connecting with others who understand can provide emotional support and coping strategies.
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your symptoms, triggers, and any treatments you try. This can help you and your healthcare providers identify effective interventions and facilitate conversations regarding your management plan.
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Prioritize Self-Care: Focus on hydration and nourish your body appropriately, as well as try relaxation techniques or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help address the emotional impact. Gentle activities like guided meditation or deep-breathing exercises may provide some relief as you explore medical options.
It’s essential to advocate for yourself during this difficult time, and I encourage continued communication with healthcare providers about your concerns and the need for effective solutions. You deserve relief and a better quality of life, given the challenges you're facing. Please take care of yourself as much as possible, and I hope you find an effective treatment soon.
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