Migraine and sleep.

Earlier yet another migraine came on strong and sudden. Sleep took an edge off, but stressing over this weekend is making the effects of it continue to linger on.

Screen is too bright to concentrate on typing right now.

I'll be on a weekend vacation. My articles and I will be back next Monday. Until then check with Raingem on latest article in regards to taking magnesium and calcium as supplements.

Migraines and caffeine.

The New England Journal of Medicine writes on caffeine:

Results Among nonsmokers, more spontaneous abortions occurred in women who ingested at least 100 mg of caffeine per day than in women who ingested less than 100 mg per day, with the increase in risk related to the amount ingested (100 to 299 mg per day: odds ratio, 1.3; 95 percent confidence interval, 0.9 to 1.8; 300 to 499 mg per day: odds ratio, 1.4; 95 percent confidence interval, 0.9 to 2.0; and 500 mg or more per day: odds ratio, 2.2; 95 percent confidence interval, 1.3 to 3.8). Among smokers, caffeine ingestion was not associated with an excess risk of spontaneous abortion.

At the same time I see something totally different on Baby Center:

After years of controversy over the issue, most researchers now believe that, although caffeine does cross the placenta, moderate amounts (less than 300 milligrams a day) won't harm your baby.

American Pregnancy gets right down to it and becomes the non committal advice altogether:

Myth: Caffeine causes miscarriages.

Fact: A few studies have shown that there may be an increase in miscarriages among women who consume more than 300 mg (three 5 oz cups of coffee) a day. Other outcomes include preterm labor and low-birth weight babies. Again, it is safer to avoid caffeine as much as possible.

Myth: A pregnant woman should not consume ANY caffeine.

Fact: Experts and studies have stated that "moderate" levels of caffeine have not been found to have a negative effect on pregnancy. The definition of "moderate" varies anywhere from 150 mg - 300 mg a day.

And these are just a handful of sites available at first glance on Google.

Since caffeine really helps my migraines at this stage as a preventive, I try to consume it in very small doses in form of coke, chocolate milk or sometimes just a sip or two of coffee. While it's a joke in comparison to how much caffeine I used to consume, my body has become a lot more sensitive to everything I take.

Currently if I take anything more than just a third of a regular can of coke, my heartbeat increases drastically and while I do become more alert and my fatigue finally goes away, along with tell-tales of a migraine, but it makes me worry in the long run.

Since this is just my first trimester (the most important stage in kid's development, things like nerves, brains and all that good stuff form at this point) I got to be really careful.

I suppose staying away completely from it is a good thing, but until I see the doc it's hard to do things like staying awake while showering, walking, driving.

You do get a manual!

Finally got into a doctor's office. To be more exact a nurses' office.

They explained to me quietly and politely that I can't do anything fun, like rob banks,
go on rides in theme parks and drive high speed chases. But in lieu of that I can read about the baby to come, (they gave me a manual) and read more, exercise lightly and take my prenatal vitamins with plenty of water and extreme amounts of food. In small doses. So I don't puke.

Our question as to whether they deal with a lot of girls who have migraines came up unanswered. Apparently headaches are a number one complaint, next to puking their guts out and gaining an awesome amount of weight, way above recommended.

Naturally my approach to the whole deal was quite clinical. I forgot almost everything I was going to ask, but my lovely fiance did pipe in with a few good questions. Nurse was quite helpful, and gave us plenty of literature to read for one day, along with a little dvd.

After which they poked me full of needles, made me sign a couple of papers and let me go while puffing on a cigar and promising to call me back sometime next week...

Lab results generally take two weeks, and my actual doctor's appointment is set for June 23rd, which is quite the ways away.

When nurse asked me about my levels of pain I - like a complete space cadet - forgot the fact that when pain strikes it generally hinders me badly and then leaves me fatigued and in a non-working condition for an hour or so.
So I said it was quite bearable instead, and nurse happily announced that it's completely normal.

While it might be normal, it's still strange to me, so I'd like to be on the cautious side, doubt anyone would complain.

On the plus side, there is a hot line that UC Davis offers their expecting patients. A nurse 1-800 number that you can call any time to ask for an advice. I might be calling them up pretty soon to find out just how well informed they are about migraines with auras and pregnancies that wear a girl out in first month or two to a point of passing out.

Doctor appointments, weddings and other daily headaches.

Finally decided. Elopement is the way. As June 1st approaches things are falling in the right places.

While I still feel cramps and get dizzy half the time, tomorrow is my first lab appointment. I'm hoping to bump my second appointment that should land me in with the doctor much sooner.
My personal belief is one should not be so dizzy so often.

Canceled my plans with Raingem and our other sibling just cause I didn't feel good. Now where's the fun in that?

My fiance did take me around town a little bit today. Was absolutely wonderful, until mix of smells, lights and noises triggered a migraine.

And if my head wasn't feeling like it's in a pair of warm (huge) cat paws with strategically placed light bulbs emitting rays comparable to light sabers in contrast to darks and lights all around the room, it would be simply fantastic. Some of these visions could be up there with Salvador Dali, Van Gogh with touches of Pablo Picasso thrown in.

But then I always said migraineurs are the cheapest dates ever. Never need to drug them, recreation just happens.

In case of bumped up appointment with the doctor I came up with several questions that have been plaguing me for a short while already:

~Why do I get dizzy so often (supply the vitamins and most daily activities to the doc for reference)?

~Why do I feel so tired so often (am a very healthy person with migraines, and those generally knocked me out often but still no excuse, I take probably as much vitamins as I used to)?

~Can I manipulate my vitamin intake? Perhaps half the current vitamin pill and take half in the morning and half in the evening to maintain same energy level. Is there a different vitamin that will allow me several pills a day with slightly higher level of specific vitamins that give me more energy and slow down my migraine attacks?

~What causes this constant mild cramping? Been with me since the beginning, and while certain articles online show that it's normal, I feel, like most new mothers irrational fear about the whole thing.

~What exercises are healthy? I feel bad for missing my black belt testing this summer, but it's not going anywhere. I can test after the baby's born just as well next spring, or following summer. But sure would like to keep learning my material at least.

While researching migraines and pregnancy I came across an article where a lady with frequent migraines educates us on speaking to our doctors and preparing our loved ones in case of severe headaches.

I must admit I am yet to experience that sort of pain during my pregnancy, but according to my physician "Nobody knows for sure, pregnancy sometimes makes migraines go away, sometimes they'll stay the same, and sometimes they'll get worse".
So I have no clue. I used to get horrific migraines on regular basis at least 2-3 times a month, until I started taking magnesium supplements. That staved them off for a good amount of time. And taking vitamin supplements in general helped as well.

Another good post about Homocysteine and Migraines was written by yet another migraineur, and mentioned in a different blog by the husband of a migraineur.

More info is always a great thing.

Ladies and gentlemen, if you have any input whatsoever in on this list, please feel free and comment, I'll add them to my list and bring it to the doctor's office. And I won't leave until I get the answers. *huffs puffs and pets a kitty*

My head already hurts too much to look at this screen for the moment. I shall post with my results from meeting with doctor's nurse and lab tomorrow.

Excercise and snacks.

Last night we had quite an experience. My in-laws and I got to go to the jazz jubilee. There were some interesting bands performing, and of course there was always enough junk food to satisfy the most curious of sweet-tooths.
Naturally my fiance held me to my vow of not pigging out on anything at all, so kettle corn and ice cream were safe and sound.

Light cramping however still put me at odds and I had to rest a short while during our walk around old Sac. It didn't hinder me for a long time. After coming home to dinner and pictionary - Gary and I took off for a two mile walk around the neighborhood and I was able to pour out all my hesitations and worries onto him.

I'm going to go to TKD tomorrow and see how I feel during the workout at night after work. Not sure how I'll be able to handle it, but better find out soon so I know what my body's capable off. The two mile walk took all sorts of strength out of me. Can't imagine lasting an entire hour in hard core cardio as usual. Hope so. But not really sure if it's possible or not.

Nevertheless it's not the end of the world. I can still do multitude of exercises and practice majority of my one steps/sparring combos and forms without disturbing my own self.

Here's hoping. ^^

My migraine was still causing me discomfort, but luckily my allergies put my smeller on hold. So I can't smell the most horrible of smells anymore :)

UFC: Wanderlei Silva vs. Keith Jardine

I generally make fun of UFC, mostly because Taekwondo has engraved respect for traditional martial arts. But last night I saw a highlight worth mentioning. Well seeing something more than what I normally call "men hugging" is always a plus.

This time Wanderlei Silva knocked that silly Irish back to Ireland. Series of punches that sent the boy packing. Ah. I love gay sports. :)

On a less serious note, (we all know there's nothing more important than men hugging ((my fiance is sitting right next to me)), I still haven't scheduled an appointment with an obstetrician. This is a memorial weekend... so I suppose they're off the hook.

I still have quite bad cramps, and have a hard time standing up for 6 hours in a row. Kind of worries me a little bit, but doesn't stop me. Too much.

My migraines been acting freaky as well. Auras are in abundance, but sharp pain came and went briefly. Dull headache in the back of my head is predominant. And need for walks is all too obvious. Bit of temper mixed with complete need to drink water all the time makes for an absolutely hilarious hostess.

Considering my in-laws are all here today that is.

So far I haven't heard complaints and I've been trying Not to stick anyone with a straw through the brain... but at least it gives you guys a heads up.

My latest main concern is exercise. I seriously do not want to injure the unborn child by doing something stupid. must continue this post in just a minute.

Vitamins and supplements part II.

Just got to look over a website discussing women afflicted with migraines during pregnancy. They have a couple of good tips on how to control nausea and emphasize to stay away from caffeine during first trimester.
Quote:

* Rest - This cannot be overemphasized. A temporary decrease in work responsibilities, especially in the first trimester, is preferable to using medications.
* Stress - A conscious effort to reduce stress is important. Sharing responsibilities, decreasing commitments, and obtaining adequate rest and exercise is strongly encouraged.
* Sleeping/eating patterns - It is very important to regulate sleeping and eating patterns to minimize headache. Skipping meals is strongly discouraged as this often triggers headaches.
* Caffeine - Caffeine should be eliminated or reduced as much as possible, especially in the first trimester.
* Trigger identification - This also is important. Try to identify specific triggers that consistently bring on your headaches (food, MSG, alcohol, bright lights, lack of sleep, certain odors, etc.) and strictly avoid them if at all possible.
* Nausea - Treat nausea early and aggressively. Avoid strong odors. Use Seabands, and/or finger acupressure over acupressure point P6 (information sheet available on request).
* Hydration - Avoid becoming dehydrated. Use clear liquids, soups, Popsicles, etc., and a bland diet such as rice, bananas, crackers, etc. If dehydration worsens, we can give you IV fluids in the office.
* Relaxation techniques - Methods such as biofeedback, guided imagery, relaxation exercises, etc., can be very helpful (information sheets available on request).
* Massage therapy - Massage therapy and physical therapy can be very helpful in alleviating certain types of headache pain.
* Acupuncture - Please note that acupuncture is generally not recommended in pregnancy. Ice packs - These should be used early and often in migraine attacks as an effective non-drug way to improve pain.
* Stimulus control - During a migraine, decrease stimulation as much as possible. Go to a quiet, dark room if at all possible. You likely will need someone to help watch the kids, take over responsibilities, etc. Plan ahead.

Any little bit helps, eh?

Vitamins and supplements.

Checking on different supplements and vitamins that I have to take. Not only keeping in mind that I have to supplement with Magnesium and vitamin B2 for migraines but also that I'm not entirely sure as to whether this might cause overdose with over-the-counter prenatal vitamins.

Right now I'm taking prenatal vitamins by "TopCare".
They contain:
Vitamin A - 4000 IU
Vitamin C - 120 mg
Vitamin D - 400 IU
Vitamin E - 30 IU
Thiamin - 1.8 mg
Riboflavin- 1.7 mg
Niacin - 20 mg
Vitamin B6 - 2.6 mg
Folic Acid - 800 mcg
Vitamin B12 - 8 mcg
Calcium - 200 mg
Iron - 28 mg
Zinc - 25 mg

After a precursory search on prenatal vitamins I got plenty of feedbacks.
BabyCenter
has a very good article on simple facts about prenatal vitamins.

Simple things like taking prenatal vitamins while trying to conceive, not taking more than one a day and explaining the main reasons behind it are all described.

After my initial interview with my physician, I must say it wasn't all that informative. But on the other hand, I always feel slightly uncomfortable in doctor's office. And the visit was merely to confirm my pregnancy.

My doctor suggested that I skip the blood test, due to the fact that it won't tell me much more than the fact I'm pregnant. We went with spot urine test. He also mentioned that I can continue Taekwondo as per usual. He asked me if I had any more questions, mentioned my magnesium supplement and doc basically said not to take any more.

Naturally he gave me referral to the O.B.G.Y.N. So next step is my conversation with him.

I'll keep my eye out for what's new on the net for migraneur mommies to be. And keep you all posted.

Introduction.

Perhaps I should have started this blog a million years ago and introduced you to all my symptoms slowly, not missing any details. But here we are anyways. I found out I'm pregnant with a home pregnancy test and confirmed with my doc yesterday that I indeed am knocked up. So this is going to be a 9 month journey for me, my kid and hopefully some future/current moms afflicted with migraines.

Let me make a brief introduction:
My name is Natasha and I'm 25 years old. I currently work at a fast food restaurant. My hobbies include, but not limited to, chilling like a villain, read, write and Taekwondo.

Luckily I don't have to explain how it is I became knocked up. There are ton of links to explain that.

I'm happily engaged to Gary, the most wonderful man on the planet and very lucky to be a part of his loving family as he is part of mine.

My migraine has been plaguing me since the beginning of time. Possibly while dinosaurs still roamed the earth, although not too sure about that. Could have been a few years later.

Doctors have diagnosed me with a chronic sinus infection at the age of 5-6, performed a surgery that supposedly helped, but headaches never really went away.
Later at the age of 21 I went back to a physician, and a neurologist, and a chiropractor, and the voodoo doctor, as well as that guy in the dark alley selling kidneys, but apparently my sinus infection was gone and migraines with slight allergies were here.

Here's a list of just few of my triggers:
Biggest and best of them is living. Apparently that's often a side effect.
Breathing too. God forbid exercise & eating & sleeping. Surprisingly sex has no adverse effects on migraines,(Hooray!) but having a cycle is. Well at least latter is taken care of for now. With a beautiful baby on the way I won't see or hear from my cycle forever. Or 9 months. Whichever comes first.
Foods, allergies, occasional yet mild sinus infection, that's common with me, are also triggers. Worst of all are smells, noises and my back going out of whack.

Things that help to counter these migraines:
Darkness (I love that mistress of light, she is entirely too kind to us migraneurs).
Proper combo of vitamins, supplements, sex, caffeine, rest and kittens. Yes orgasms often relieve my migraines. So does petting kittens. Both things are absolutely a must.
Lately also the euphoria that's going along thinking about our baby expanding our family. I'm not entirely sure about how I'm going to treat my migraine in the future.

My fiance Gary and I have been trying to conceive only since April. And I did stop taking things like Imitrex, antidepressants, birth control and prescription strength painkillers. I used to take a variety. Codeines, Oxycodones, anything that sounded good at the time. Although I never abused them. Which probably explains why they never really helped in the first place.

Strangely enough dark rooms with proper ventilation, and an ice pack on my head along with 3 Excedrin more often than not helped me immensely.

Can't get over how happy I feel about having a baby. It's taken all my thoughts and kept a smile on my face all day.
Which is a reaction we promote in all healthy pregnant women in healthy happy relationships.