Aseptic meninigitis

Hi dowens8,
I had aseptic meningitis 8 years ago. I had severe Migraine headaches for 9 months, bed ridden. Eight years later, I still struggle with memory problems, fatigue etc. It is difficult to live with pain, but it sounds like you don't want to live on pain meds. It may be that like me, there will need to be a period of time you are on medication to treat the headaches. Talk to your doctor about alternative meds, maybe a low dose opiod based med. Phenregan has helped me tremendously, although I only use a small amount and take it when it is at night as it makes me very sleepy. It is my last resort if my headaches are insane. Although I did not like being on pain medication for a long time, and was physically addicted, (as opposed to mentally addicted-there's a difference) for a long time, I could have not survived without them. Research has shown that patients who are truly in pain do not get addicted to pain medications. If you are absolutely opposed to pain meds, maybe try acupuncture. I hate needles and was a huge skeptic, but have to admit that on some of my worst days, I walked out after feeling great. I also started out the biggest skeptic towards hypnotism, but am utterly surprised how it has helped me. I was only open to the idea because it was the reason my dad stopped chain smoking suddenly and never picked up one again. I found a trained doctor who has been doing it for a very long time. Open up your ideas of treatment and ask around how people treat their pain. It may seem hokey, but if there is a chance it works, it would be worth it. Best wishes, CharlieJane