I’m back at square one, searching for a new headache specialist to help me manage my cluster headaches and migraines. It’s not an easy task, especially when you’ve built a strong relationship with your previous doctor. But, as anyone who’s lived with these debilitating conditions knows, finding the right healthcare professional is crucial.
My own journey has been long and arduous. After initially receiving the correct diagnosis, I moved away and struggled to find doctors who would take my symptoms seriously. It took years of dismissive diagnoses from various medical professionals before I finally found a primary care physician who referred me to a neurologist – and eventually, my beloved headache specialist in Denver.
But now, that specialist has retired, leaving me feeling lost and uncertain about how to find a new doctor who understands my unique needs. That’s why I’m turning to the online community of cluster headache patients for recommendations and advice. After all, when you’re living with a rare condition like cluster headaches, it’s essential to have a healthcare professional who not only knows what they’re doing but also values patient input.
According to migrainemedicine.org, 55 million Americans live with migraine disease – and many others struggle with similar conditions like SUNCT, trigeminal neuralgia, and cluster headaches. Yet, there are fewer than 700 certified headache specialists in the United States, making it a challenging search for patients seeking expert care.
As someone who’s been through this process before, I know how important it is to find a doctor who listens, respects your concerns, and stays up-to-date with the latest treatments. Don’t be afraid to “fire” your doctor if you don’t feel heard or valued during appointments. Your healthcare is too important to settle for anything less.
So, if you’re in my shoes – searching for a new headache specialist – I encourage you to keep looking until you find the right fit. And remember, you deserve a doctor who will treat you with respect and compassion, even when your headaches are at their most debilitating.
References:
1 American Headache Society. (n.d.). Migraine Facts. Retrieved from