OpenHealth Q&A

Facing Frequent Migraines Before Upcoming Surgery

I am a 24-year-old non-binary individual (assigned female at birth), weighing 155 lbs and standing at 5'6". In an effort to prepare for surgery, I stopped using cannabis two weeks ago, and I haven't touched alcohol for more than a month. I've been undergoing testosterone therapy for several years now, and my recent blood tests indicate that everything is in good order. On Friday, I am scheduled for a hysterectomy, and I am feeling quite anxious about the migraines that have been plaguing me lately. These migraines have been part of my life on and off since high school, usually occurring every few months. However, in the past two months, their frequency has increased dramatically, occurring two to three times weekly. I have identified several potential triggers for these migraines: glaring lights, a specific hairspray that I have discarded, incense burned by my downstairs neighbor, and prolonged periods on my computer. Sometimes, though, they strike without any clear cause. To mitigate the migraines, I’ve taken steps such as reducing my screen time, closing the windows during incense burning, and using eye masks or closing blinds when exposed to bright light. Additionally, I’ve made substantial improvements to my hydration (opting for water over alcohol) and maintain a balanced diet rich in meats, fruits, and vegetables while steering clear of overly sugary and caffeinated foods and beverages. Despite these proactive measures, the debilitating migraines persist, particularly on the left side of my head and temple. These headaches tend to intensify when I change positions from sitting to standing. Recently, I experienced one of the most intense migraines, accompanied by a sharp pain that shot through my left knee and head. It was so abrupt that it startled me, but thankfully, the pain subsided into a typical migraine after a short while, leaving my knee feeling normal. I haven't had such a sudden attack since then, but it left me feeling quite frightened. It’s worth mentioning that both of my parents suffer from migraines severe enough to require strong pain medication, so I’ve been aware that my situation might eventually necessitate medical attention. Unfortunately, my primary care physician is unavailable until after my surgery on Friday, so I'm left feeling apprehensive about my migraines. They range from mild discomfort that requires a brief respite in a dark room to excruciating pain that brings me to tears. With their recent surge in frequency, I'm concerned that there could be more to this than what meets the eye, yet I'm also debating whether I might be overreacting. Currently, the only medication I can take is Tylenol, which offers me some relief for a limited time. I’m hesitant to rely on it consistently, as I dread the thought of spending my days confined in darkness, hoping for a swift recovery. Given the situation, would it be unreasonable for me to seek urgent care tonight to explore my options? Perhaps they could conduct some tests to confirm my safety for anesthesia and surgery on Friday? Or should I simply schedule an appointment with my primary care physician post-surgery and address everything then?

Answers (1)

3/3/2026, 11:20:38 PM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to feel anxious about your frequent migraines, especially with surgery approaching. Given your situation, it's essential to manage your discomfort while preparing for your upcoming hysterectomy.

Explanation

Migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, including environmental stimuli, stress, and hormonal changes, which might be heightened due to the anxiety around your surgery. The recent increase in the frequency and intensity of your migraines is concerning, particularly the accompanying sharp pain that you experienced. This may indicate that a healthcare professional could provide valuable insights or treatments.

Next Steps

1. Consider Seeking Urgent Care: If your migraines are becoming unmanageable or intensifying, visiting urgent care could be a prudent option. They can perform basic neurological exams and discuss your symptoms. They may also review your current medications and pain management options, ensuring you're safe for anesthesia.

2. Document Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your migraines, noting the intensity, duration, and any accompanying symptoms (like the knee pain you described). This information will be helpful for any healthcare provider you see, post-surgery or at urgent care.

3. Manage Anxiety: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or visualization exercises to help you cope with anxiety before surgery. This could also help reduce migraine triggers as stress is a common factor.

4. Stick with Your Current Migraine Management: Continue avoiding known triggers where possible, like glare and incense, and utilize available measures to keep your hydration levels up.

If you do decide to seek urgent care, it would be advisable to mention your medical history, current concerns, and triggers clearly. Ultimately, addressing your migraines both before and after surgery can significantly improve your recovery experience. Remember, your health and comfort are paramount. Let me know if you need further information or support!