My mother has been suffering from chronic headaches for five years. All her test reports, including an MRI, are normal, and previous treatments from multiple doctors have not provided relief. What medications or treatment options should we consider next?
It is very reassuring that her MRI is normal, ruling out serious structural issues. For long-standing chronic headaches, consulting a dedicated headache specialist is the best next step. They may suggest trying preventative medications like amitriptyline, propranolol, or topiramate. Newer therapies, such as CGRP inhibitors or botulinum toxin injections, might also be highly effective. Additionally, non-drug approaches like physical therapy, acupuncture, stress management, and keeping a headache diary to track triggers can provide significant relief. Please consult her specialist to safely discuss these targeted options.