How Being My Own Medical Advocate Helped Me Move Forward

I knew myself the best

I recently had a visit with my current neurologist. When I left, my frustration was infuriating. She hadn’t been unkind in any way. She simply answered my questions like most medical doctors have in the past, by steering me to another department of care. My attempt to be examined holistically had failed.

However, regarding her field of expertise, the solution for me was to try the latest medication on the market for my condition. Looking at my records, she reiterated that I had been given nearly every treatment out there. Why not give the newest development in migraine prevention a try?

I calmly reminded her of my high sensitivity to prescription medications. If she administered the shot and there was a negative effect, it would remain in my body for weeks. I opted to first go home and research CGRP inhibitors.

I ALREADY HAVE RAYNAUD’S SYNDROME!

Normally, I was very intimidated by doctors. Face to face with the experts, my confidence and boundaries come down. Yet after reading the article on CGRP inhibitors, boy, was I glad I hadn’t caved into getting the Aimovig injection. Gold star for me for having said, “no thanks.”

Ultimately, I wasn’t angry with my doctor. Yes, she missed that part of my chart. But, doctors are human. They can’t possibly keep up with all the side effects of every new medication on the market. She was doing what she was taught, prevent and treat with medication.

One neurologist was my favorite, even though I left his office crying. He had read the images from my MRI scan, he comforted my fear of an aneurysm. I was in the clear. But what he told me next, I never forgot.

He was brutally honest, and that was why I liked him. Unfortunately, unless I wanted to camouflage or trick my neurological illness with prescription pharmaceuticals, there was nothing more he could do for me. He commended my attempt to prevent migraines naturally and I was on my way.

So, here I was, realizing my favorite MD was again correct. There was no point avoiding the real issue by covering it up with a mainstream medical approach that continually led me into a vicious cycle. The near run-in with Aimovig was the confirmation I needed to step forward toward my next journey.

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