How to Partner With Your Doctor for Better Results
You might be feeling like your doctor dismissed your symptoms, rushed to prescribe medications without listening, or failed to look deeper into what's causing your migraines. Maybe you’ve tried multiple treatments that didn’t help—or made things worse—and now you’re left wondering if anything will actually work. These are valid feelings, especially when you’ve been in pain for so long.
Getting the most out of your medical visit
Keep a list of what you’ve tried—medications, supplements, diets, and more.
Be open about your fears and side effects—we want to work around them.
Try to stay hopeful—even after disappointments.
Ask questions. This is your health, and you deserve clear answers.
Understanding the Approach to Migraine Treatment: What Your Doctor Wants You to Know
Migraines can be debilitating and frustrating. If you’ve been dealing with frequent or severe headaches, it's understandable to feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or even skeptical of medical advice. But many of the feelings that migraine sufferers share—while deeply real—can unintentionally get in the way of finding relief.
Let’s walk through some common concerns patients express and what we, as your medical team, want you to know.
“I’ve tried everything and nothing works.”
Let’s take a closer look together.
It feels like everything has been tried—but often, patients aren’t sure what medications they’ve taken or haven’t had access to prescription options yet. What feels like the end of the road might actually be just the beginning. Many highly effective treatments are available that go beyond over-the-counter painkillers.
“My doctor didn’t try to find out what’s causing my migraines.”
We actually know a lot about what causes migraines.
Migraine is a neurological condition that affects 1 in 8 people. Genetics and hormones are major contributors—and while we can't always modify those, we can treat the symptoms and reduce their impact. That’s where the focus of modern treatment lies: relief and prevention.
“Doctors keep trying to throw medications at me.”
Because medications work. Thoughtfully.
It may seem like medications are being pushed without a deeper strategy, but in reality, every prescription comes with careful consideration. The goal is to find something that helps without unwanted side effects—and yes, that’s possible.
“I’m suffering every day. I just need a scan to see what’s wrong.”
Imaging often doesn’t give us new answers.
We understand the desire for a definitive test, but most people with migraine symptoms have normal brain scans. If your symptoms align with migraine, we already have a diagnosis—and we don’t want to delay effective treatment waiting for an image that likely won’t change our plan.
“I’m not taking any meds. They all have side effects.”
Side effects are possible, not guaranteed.
It’s valid to be cautious. Some people do experience side effects—but most medications have a therapeutic window: a dose that helps without significant downsides. And importantly, one person’s experience doesn’t predict your own. Our job is to help you find what works for you.
“I’m not going to be a guinea pig.”
Finding the right treatment isn’t experimentation—it’s customization.
Yes, we may try more than one medication. That’s not a sign of failure. It’s how we learn what your body responds to best. You are not a lab rat; you are a unique person whose treatment needs a personalized approach.
“My friend tried that and said it didn’t help at all.”
Individual experiences vary—your journey is your own.
We all listen to people we know. But your friend’s experience is just one data point. Doctors, on the other hand, rely on evidence from thousands of patients. Let us help you based on the broader picture.
“My life is over because of migraines.”
Migraine is treatable. Life can get better.
We’ve seen countless patients go from daily suffering to regaining full, joyful lives. It takes time, persistence, and the right approach—but better days are absolutely possible.
