Challenging Migraine

January 2013 Issue 17
Challenging Migraine
The newsletter from Migraine Action
Peripheral Nerve
Stimulation
Page 6
Clinical Research Trials
Page 7 - 10
Common Types of
Headache
Page 11
www.migraine.org.uk
www.migraine.org.uk/youngmigraineurs
Migraine Action: your charity caring for you
www.migain.org.uk
Registered charity number: 207783
Challenging Migraine - The newsletter from Migraine Action
PG2
Charity Information & Migraine Clinics
Our mission statement is: To relieve the burden of headache
by facilitating informed awareness and encouraging research.
Migraine Action was founded in 1958 as the British Migraine
Association by the late Peter Wilson MBE. Its objectives
include:
• the provision of understanding, reassurance and
information to migraineurs, their families and friends;
• raising general awareness of the condition;
• the support of specialist migraine clinics;
• research and investigation into migraine, its causes,
diagnosis, prevention and treatment;
• facilitating the exchange of information relating to
migraine.
President:
Mary Ayres
Committee: The Committee members are the trustees of the
charity. They are responsible for the governance of MA and
the management of its affairs.
Association Chairman:
Adrian Peasgood
Trustee Members: Gary George, Jenny Hennah, Heather Lally, Michael
Wakefield, Pam Watson.
Office Team:
Director:
Joanna Hamilton-Colclough
Marketing and PR Officer:
Rachel Markham
Membership & Helpline Officer: Fazila Patel
Finance & Admin Officer:
Stella Powell
Please address all correspondence to the office.
The views and opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of
MA or of the Editor. The right is reserved to edit items submitted. This publication
provides information only. Unless otherwise stated, the authors have no medical
qualifications whatsoever. Migraine Action and its officers can accept no
responsibility for any loss, howsoever caused, to any person acting or refraining
from action as a result of any material in the publication or any information given.
Medical advice should be obtained on any specific matter.
MIGRAINE CLINICS
Patients must first obtain a referral letter from their GP
before requesting an appointment for many of these clinics
or hospitals.
LONDON -
CHELTENHAM - Cheltenham General Hospital
Tel: 08454 222 222
CLACTON ON SEA - Ranworth Surgery (Primary Care Headache Clinic)
Tel: 01255 421196
COLCHESTER - West Bergholt Surgery (Primary Care Headache Clinic)
Tel: 01255 421196
CORSHAM - Box Surgery
Tel: 01225 743 763
COVENTRY - University Hospital of Coventry and Warwickshire
Tel: 02476 96 4000
DAGENHAM - Care UK
Tel; 0208 596 4400
DERBY - Derby Nuffield Hospital
Tel; 01332 254 890
EDINBURGH - Western General Hospital
Tel: 0131 537 1000
EXETER - St. Thomas Health Centre
Tel: 01392 676 678
GLASGOW Southern General Hospital
Tel: 0141 201 1100
Glasgow Homeopathic Hospital
Tel: 0141 211 1600
GLOUCESTER - Gloucestershire Royal Hospital
Tel: 08454 222 222
GUILDFORD - Merrow Park Surgery (private clinic)
Tel: 01483 450 755
HULL - Hull Royal Infirmary
Tel: 01482 328541
LEICESTER - General Hospital
Tel: 0116 249 0490
LIVERPOOL - The Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery
Tel: 0151 525 3611
MANCHESTER - Greater Manchester Neuroscience Centre, Salford Royal Hospital
Tel: 0161 206 4610
MARGATE - The East Kent PCT Headache Service
Tel: 01843 209300
MIDDLESBROUGH - James Cook University Hospital
Tel: 01642 854108
NEWCASTLE - Royal Victoria Infirmary
Tel: 0191 256 3111
NORTHAMPTON - Northampton General Hospital
Tel: 01604 545 850
NORWICH - Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital
Tel: 01603 286286
OXFORD - John Radcliffe Hospital
Tel: 01865 741166
PRESTON - Royal Preston Hospital
Tel: 01772 716 565
PLYMOUTH - Derriford Hospital
Tel: 0845 155 8155
SHEFFIELD - Park Health Centre
Tel: 0114 279 5565
STOKE-ON-TRENT - North Staffordshire Hospital
Tel: 01782 715 444
SUNDERLAND - Sunderland Royal Hospital
Tel: 0191 565 6256
SURBITON - Surbiton Hospital
Tel: 020 8399 711
YORK - York District Hospital
Tel: 01904 631 313
Many neurology departments in NHS hospitals see migraine patients. We know that the following
hospitals do so:
BANBURY - Horton Hospital
Tel: 01295 275 500
BASILDON - Basildon University Hospital
Tel: 01268 533 911
BIRMINGHAM - The Queen Elizabeth Neurosciences Centre
Tel: 0121 414 3943
CAMBRIDGE - Addenbrooke’s Hospital
Tel: 01223 245 151
CHESTER - Countess of Chester Hospital
Tel: 01244 365 000
COLCHESTER - Colchester General Hospital
Tel: 01206 747 474
HALIFAX - Calderdale Royal Hospital
Tel: 01422 357 171
LEEDS - St. James’s University Hospital
Tel: 0113 243 3144
LONDON - Whipps Cross University Hospital
Tel: 020 8539 5522
MANCHESTER - Manchester Royal Infirmary
Tel: 0161 276 8671
NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE - Royal Victoria Infirmary
Tel: 0191 232 6161
NOTTINGHAM - Nottingham University Hospital
Tel: 0115 924 9924
ORPINGTON - Princess Royal University Hospital
Tel: 01689 863 000
PORTSMOUTH - Queen Alexandra’s Hospital
Tel: 023 9228 6000
REDDITCH - Alexandra Hospital
Tel: 01527 503 030
ROMFORD - Queen’s Hospital
Tel: 01708 435 000
STAFFORD - Stafford & Cannock Chase Hospitals
Tel: 01785 230 238
SOUTHAMPTON - Southampton General Hospital
Tel: 02380 796793
SURBITON - Surbiton Hospital
Tel: 020 8399 7111
SURREY - Frimley Park Hospital
Tel: 01276 604 604
SWANSEA - Morriston Hospital
Tel: 01792 702222
WAKEFIELD - Pinderfields General Hospital
Tel: 0844 811 8110
WORTHING - Worthing Hospital
Tel: 01903 205 111
National Migraine Centre (referral not required)
Tel: 020 7251 3322
Princess Margaret Migraine Clinic, Charing Cross Hospital
Tel: 020 8846 1303
CHILDREN’S CLINICS:
The National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery
Tel: 0845 155 5000
ESSEX - Goodmayes Hospital
Tel: 0208 590 6060
Headache Services, King’s College Hospital
Tel: 020 3299 8355
FALKIRK - Falkirk and District Royal Infirmary
Tel: 01324 624 000
GLASGOW - Royal Hospital for Sick Children
Tel: 0141 201 0000
LIVERPOOL - Alder Hey Children’s Hospital
Tel: 0151 228 4811
The Headache Clinic, The Royal London Hospital
Tel: 020 7377 7359
ABERDEEN - Aberdeen Royal Infirmary
Tel: 0845 456 6000
BATH - Royal United Hospital
Tel: 01225 821 907
BATH - Circle Bath
Tel: 0808 188 1888
BRIGHTON - Royal Sussex County Hospital
Tel: 01273 696955
BIRMINGHAM - Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospital
Tel: 0121 5075956
CAMBRIDGE - Chesterton Medical Centre
Tel: 01223 726050
CANNOCK - Hednesford Street Surgery
Tel: 01543 503 121
CARDIFF - University Hospital of Wales
Tel: 029 2074 7747
CHIPPENHAM - Chippenham Community Hospital
Tel: 08454 222 222
LONDON City of London Migraine Clinic (a referral is not required at this clinic)
Tel: 020 7251 3322
Great Ormond Street Hospital
Tel: 020 7405 9200
NOTTINGHAM - Queen’s Medical Centre
Tel: 0115 823 0850
PLYMOUTH - Derriford Hospital
Tel: 0845 155 8155
STOKE-ON-TRENT - North Staffordshire Hospital
Tel: 01782 715 444
STIRLING - Stirling Royal Infirmary
Tel: 01786 434 000
YORK - York Hospital
Tel: 01904 631 313
Please contact the office for details of clinics offering Botox for the treatment of migraine.
Address: 4th Floor, 27 East Street, Leicester, LE1 6NB.
Helpline: 0116 275 8317 Fax: 0116 254 2023 Email: info@migraine.org.uk
Web: www.migraine.org.uk Children’s web: www.migraine.org.uk/youngmigraineurs
Issue 17 - January 2013 www.migraine.org.uk
Issue 17 - January 2013 www.migraine.org.uk
PG3
From the Director
The Financial Future for Migraine Action
Here at Migraine Action, I am pleased to report that we move into 2013 with added optimism.
We have been overwhelmed by the financial support given to us during a very difficult
financial period. The generosity, support and financial kindness received from our membership
brought us into 2013 on a financial even keel. We have managed to stabilise our finances and
we now have in place a staff structure we believe we can afford on an annual basis as long as
our annual income remains at the levels of 2011 and 2012.
None of this would have been possible without your individual help and kindness for which I am most thankful.
However, I will keep you all informed as this is your charity and we are here to serve you.
I want to ensure that the charity continues to thrive in these uncertain times and as such I wanted to share the
findings of a report published by the Charities Aid Foundation in autumn 2012.
This report tells us that younger generations are failing to give as much to charities as the over 60s, which could
lead to a "long-term giving crisis". This reflects the trend in our charitable giving here at Migraine Action. More
than half of all donations that now come to Migraine Action come from the over 60s. It would appear from the
report that it is the over 60s who are now more than twice as likely to give to charity as the under 30s.
The study, conducted by Professor Sarah Smith of the University of Bristol, warns that charities face a "donation
deficit" in the years to come if action is not taken to ensure that younger generations match the generosity of
those born between 1925 and 1945 and in the post-war baby boom between 1945 and 1966.
The research found that the gap between the donations made by the over 60s and under 30s has widened sharply
during the past 30 years, raising fears that donations will fall when the older generations start to die and members
of Generation X (1965-1981) and Generation Y (1982-1999) reach retirement.
In 1980, 29 per cent of the over 60s had given to charity, compared with 23 per cent of those under 30. But 30
years later, 32 per cent of people over 60 said they had given to charities in the past fortnight, compared with only
16 per cent of the under 30s.
So how can Migraine Action tackle the potential long-term donation deficit when the majority of our membership
is over the age of 55 years?
I would welcome any ideas from members, so I can start to put into practice longer term initiatives in this time of
greater austerity in our country, to help manage this problem, which according to this report will increase.
As you will all know, Migraine Action receives no Government or health funds. We are reliant on the generosity
of our members through subscriptions, donations and legacies for our future. We have in our new staff structure
allowed for the post of a part-time Income Generation Officer and I am sure, once in post, like me they would wish
to hear from you.
Of course we continue to seek funds from grant making trusts, however, like all charities we are finding this income
stream increasingly competitive to secure.
We would love to encourage our younger members to become more involved with the charity at all levels of
interaction, from volunteering to establishing local support groups to help support our increasing membership, as
well as perhaps joining our Trustees board, or helping to open new commercial avenues.
I personally would be very happy if members from all decades felt that they could
contribute, not only to support MA financially but also help in our PR, Marketing and
Fundraising areas.
Please do drop me a line, or call the office if you feel that you would be able to offer any
support or even to discuss your views on the enclosed.
Joanna Hamilton - Colclough
Director
Contents
Page 3: From the Director
Page 7 - 10: Clinical Research
Page 4 - 5: Fundraising is Fun
Page 11: Types of Headache
Page 6: Treatment News
Page 12 & 13: Current Research
Challenging Migraine - The newsletter from Migraine Action
Page 14: Living with Migraine
Page 15: MA’s Shop & Services
Page 16 : Migraine in the Media
PG4
Challenging Migraine - The newsletter from Migraine Action
Fundraising is Fun
My day out of the office
“Originally, I was going to title this
article ‘How to Sky dive’, but what
was I thinking? I don't really know
how to skydive. I decided however
to take the plunge on Sunday 2nd
September 2012 as having asked
our members to raise money
for us, I thought I should lead by
example! Below is my experience
of that day and I hope a light
hearted attempt to encourage you
to consider possible fundraising opportunities you might
like to undertake on behalf of Migraine Action.
I had done some things prior to skydiving for charity
that some people would consider scary: white water
rafting in Val d'Isère in France, a solo parachute jump
and a triathlon against the local police force, to name a
few.
At 6.30am on Sunday 2nd September it felt like a long
ride to the skydiving location, especially as I live out in
the sticks and the airfield was an hour and a half away.
I got there in plenty of time and was the first to arrive.
I knew I would not be waiting around all day and most
likely would be one of the first to jump. Knowing this
made my anxiety go away as I hate crowds and waiting
around!
I did however feel the first fingers of anxiety creeping
their way onto my shoulder when the instructor handed
me a contract to sign, which basically says you can't
sue the skydiving company if you die (while skydiving).
When you arrive and realise how high the sky is (I did
wonder why I had never noticed before), you might
reconsider but I'm just a big fan of big thrills.
After you put on the harness, shake hands with your
tandem instructor (if it's your first time, a tandem
instructor will be attached to you on the jump), and
get on the plane, you're almost there. If you're still not
scared, congratulations, you're just about as fearless
(and foolish) as me.
The instructor I was going to be attached to claimed that
skydiving is safer than getting on a bus or in a car: "You
should have to sign one of these (the contract that says
you can't sue in the event of your death) every time you
get in a car”, he told me.
Amongst the six pairs (including Joanna, another
Migraine Action member) onboard the very little plane
I went up in, my instructor and I were the first to jump.
I had seen a video of skydiving while waiting for the
instructors to walk us out to the plane. I had been
thinking about skydiving for about 15 years as I had
really enjoyed my previous solo parachute jump. I had
also seen many pretty crazy videos of skydiving on TV,
on YouTube, and on Google the day before the jump
shown to me by my very caring children!
I wasn’t scared witless, my heart wasn’t threatening to
hammer its way through my muscle, sinew, and skin. I
do wonder though if I would've been scared had I not
been the first to go out of the plane. Call me naive but I
gave it absolutely no thought. All my life my friends and
family have told me that I am impulsive! I thought they
meant when I go shopping!
My tandem instructor decided that it would be fun to
try and scare me before the jump. He told me that we
were going to jump across the flight path used by East
Midlands airport and it was only when I jumped out,
that I realised I was looking out for a aircraft!! How silly
can one be?
As we got to the open door, the wind blasting toward
us, my tandem instructor told me to bend my knees,
lean back, sit on his lap, and leave everything to him. I
leapt out of the plane, with him attached close behind
me.
If you ask me, skydiving is not about the view, it's about
the sensation: the wind howling in your face and ears,
the full force of gravity acting on you, being that far up
in the sky without being in a flying vehicle, knowing how
birds probably feel. It's a freedom that you can only feel
a few thousand feet in the air. Somewhere in the back of
your mind, you suspect that something could go wrong,
and you're right, but you don't care. Now you finally
know what R Kelly's talking about in his song "I Believe I
Can Fly" (literally).
“It was great, absolutely amazing”. I must've said
something like that when my tandem instructor yelled
in my ear to ask me what I thought about skydiving
now that I was actually doing it. I meant every word.
Throughout the fall, he navigated our direction with
some wing-things attached to our gear. Sometime
during the fall, probably near the end, he opened the
parachute (I couldn't exactly turn my head back, and
my ears were too shot to hear anything less than two
millimeters away from them).
He told me that upon landing I would have to run with
him, going with the momentum. No problem, I thought
and I was right - I landed on my feet, dead on! “Stay
where you are”, I was told, as he went over to collect
the parachute. I saw six others coming in around me and
all of us managed not to break any bones! It was only
when I had been given permission to go over and meet
my family that I realised my head was still spinning!
Taking £1500 off my friends and
family alongside the £700.00
raised by our member meant
it was not a bad day out of the
office for Migraine Action!! Now
I have to think about what to do
for Migraine Awareness Week
2013 - all “sensible” suggestions
will be considered!
Issue 17 - January 2013 www.migraine.org.uk
Issue 17 - January 2013 www.migraine.org.uk
PG5
Fundraising Activities
Walking, not singing in the rain!
Thank you to all those who supported Mary Ayres (MA’s President) and her daughter Catherine
who took part in the British 10k London 2012 run on the 8th July 2012, on behalf of Migraine
Action, raising over a £1000. They were amongst 25,000 runners who swept through the London
route on a grey, wet day, cheered on by the crowds lining the roads and the bridges.
Walking at a steady pace Catherine and Mary completed the race in 1hr 59 minutes (just within
their time limit of two hours) and there was plenty of rain to keep them cool. Mary came in to the
finish a fraction of a second ahead of her daughter, a nice “win” for the more mature competitor.
Captain’s Day
A big thank you to Alice, one of our young migraineurs, for organising a Captain’s Day at her local
golf club with the support of her friends, raising almost £300.00.
If you are interested in taking part in a fundraising activity, or event, please contact us for more
information on how you can get involved! There are various things you can do that can really help
make a difference to the lives of migraineurs and raise awareness of this much misunderstood
condition at the same time.
Derek Robinson's Migraine Art Concept
In the 1970s, the Migraine Art concept was developed by the late Derek Robinson (1928-2001)
as the rationale for a number of public competitions in the 1980s which encouraged artists, both
amateur and professional, to illustrate the pain, the visual disturbances and the effect migraine
had on their lives.
According to Derek, Migraine Art denotes the idea that techniques of pictorial representational
art may provide an adequate and sometimes the best suited medium to express and
communicate those experiences which occur as signs and symptoms of migraine or as reactions
of the migraine sufferer to the said manifestations of the disease. If you Google
Derek Robinson - Migraine Art, you will see masses of art work, (much of
which Migraine Action owns the copyright to) painted by migraineurs. We have
recently tried to use some of the artwork from this competition on the front page of ‘Challenging
Migraine’.
Derek was an important part of British Migraine Association’s progress in raising awareness of
the condition through the use of art. We, as an organisation, need to do more at some point to
publicise this and would love to be able to host another art competition. However, as always,
funds are not always readily available. If any member is interested in sponsoring or starting to plan
for such an event please do let us know.
MA Lottery
The last draw for share scheme period 2 took place on the 17th
December 2012 (winning numbers can be found online).
1st prize
2nd prize
3rd prize
Congratulations to all our winners so far. If you’ve bought shares
July
148
39
69
for 2013 you still have the chance of winning a cash prize. Draws
September
180
86
198
for the current period (January - June 2013) will be taking place
on 30th January, 27th March and 26th June 2013. The winning share numbers will be posted on the website shortly
after the draw and will also be printed in the next newsletter.
Along with making first prize winners for this period over £200 richer, so far the MA lottery has raised over £2000
for Migraine Action. These funds are much needed and we would like to thank everyone who has supported us by
purchasing shares so far.
Don’t miss out on your chance to win!
Purchase your shares for the MA lottery 2013 period 1 (January - June 2013) and 2 (July - December
2013) now! Each £10 share gives you entry into the three prize draws to win first, second and third
prizes in each draw for that share period. The more people who buy shares the greater the cash
prizes that are up for grabs - so join the MA lottery today by calling the office on 0116 275 8317 or by
visiting our online shop www.migraine.org.uk/shop.
Full details of lottery are available at www.migraine.org.uk/malottery
Draw month
Winning share numbers period 2
Challenging Migraine - The newsletter from Migraine Action
PG6
Challenging Migraine - The newsletter from Migraine Action
Treatment News
Can magnesium help relieve migraine?
Magnesium plays a vital role in the human body
as magnesium deficiency can cause a multitude
of symptoms including migraine, irritability,
anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, poor memory and
lack of concentration. Studies have shown
that oral magnesium supplementation can be effective
as a preventative treatment for migraine. A study by Dr
Alexander Mauskop, Director of the New York Headache
Centre, found that in a group of 3,000 patients given 200mg
of magnesium daily, 80 per cent had a reduction in their
migraine symptoms*.
Studies indicate that magnesium is deficient in people with
migraine and other types of headache, and that treating the
deficiency alleviates the headache.
The recommended dose varies with the brand of the
magnesium, it is suggested 400mg - 600mg daily can be
effective in migraine prevention. It is best to start at 400mg
daily and work up to find the best tolerated dose. Certain
types of magnesium are not well absorbed by the body. If
your body isn’t absorbing magnesium well, try and avoid
the following types of magnesium: oxide, hydroxide, and
chloride. Instead, look for magnesium types that end in
“ate”, particularly glycinate, but also gluconate, lactate
and orotate. Chelated (firmly attached to an amino acid or
compound) versions tend to be the best for migraineurs.
Sometimes two or more types of magnesium are combined,
such as oxide and citrate. The best thing is to simply talk to
your doctor and then try one kind and see how your body
handles it.
Sea-Band® can help to relieve
migraine-related nausea
A recent study conducted on the use of Acupressure
in controlling migraine-associated nausea that was
published in the May 2012 issue of Neurological
Sciences showed that continuous stimulation
of the acupoint PC6 Neiguan on the inner wrist,
as provided by Sea-Band® wristbands, showed
significant improvement in migraine-related nausea.
Stimulation of the acupoint PC6 Neiguan, is an
approach for controlling nausea that has been
adopted by traditional Chinese medicine for years,
with previous studies having demonstrated the
efficacy of Sea-Band and its continual stimulation
of the acupressure point PC6 for nausea relief
due to motion sickness, postoperative nausea and
chemotherapy-induced nausea. This is the first
time that research has been published verifying
that the pressure applied to the acupoint PC6 with
Sea-Band® is effective at relieving nausea during
migraine. According to medical journals it is the
gentle, continous stimulation of the acupressure
points that causes the nervous system to release
chemicals that help trigger the body’s natural
healing abilities, helping to control nausea. SeaBand® is said to work within five minutes after being
applied and can be worn prior to or at the onset of
nausea and for as long as needed. You can find out
more about Sea-Band® by visiting www.sea-band.
com or www.Facebook.com/seaband.
*The Magnesium Mineral, Dr Carolyn Dean, Chapter Four, Migraines and Pain.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation benefits
chronic migraineurs
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (PNS) of the
occipital nerves, also sometimes referred
to as Occipital Nerve Stimulation (ONS)
is a potentially promising therapy for
chronic migraine patients.
The first large-scale study of PNS of the occipital nerves
in patients suffering from chronic migraine was recently
conducted. Results published online by Cephalalgia
showed a significant reduction in pain, headache days
and migraine-related disability for those who received
PNS.
PNS involves the delivery of mild electrical pulses to
the occipital nerves that are located just beneath the
skin at the back of the head. A small electrical lead or
leads are placed under the skin and connected to a
neurostimulator, which produces pulses of stimulation.
In this randomised, controlled study, participants
were implanted with the St. Jude Medical Genesis™
neurostimulator and randomly assigned to an active or
control group for 12 weeks. The active group received
stimulation immediately upon implantation, while
patients in the control group did not receive stimulation
until after the first 12 weeks. Patients in the active group
were more likely than control patients to experience 30
per cent or greater pain reduction, which is considered
clinically meaningful.
More recently, St. Jude Medical Inc. (a global medical
device company) who make the implant device, have
received regulatory approval for their Eon range of
rechargeable implantable pulse generators for the
management of severe chronic refractory migraine.
This approval supplements an earlier approval for their
Genesis non-rechargeable pulse generator. The Eon
family of pulse generators are currently available within
NHS hospitals that offer or are going to start to offer this
treatment option, a list of these are below:
• NHNN, London – Dr Manjit Matharu & Mr Laurence Watkins
• Charing Cross, London – Dr Mark Weatherall & Mr Dipankar Nandi
• Kings College, London – Dr Andrew Dowson, Dr Sam Chong & Mr Keyoumars Ashkan
• Oxford John Radcliffe – Dr Paul Davies & Mr Alex Green
• Norfolk & Norwich – Dr Paul Worth & Dr Mike Sidery (pain specialist)
• Frenchay, Bristol – Mr Nik Patel
• Royal Preston, Preston – Mr Nick Park
• St. James’, Leeds – Dr Fayyaz Ahmed & Dr Barani (pain specialist)
Availability of PNS under the NHS is still limited and
the treatment itself is quite expensive. As a result you
may need to try and persuade your local PCT to release
funding for the procedure. The first step to take in
accessing this treatment is to see your GP or specialist
regarding its suitability for you.
Issue 17 - January 2013 www.migraine.org.uk
Clinical Research....helping to
improve the health of
future generations
The information in this supplement
has been provided by
Clinical Research
Phases of Clinical Trials
Getting Involved
www.migraine.org.uk
www.migraine.org.uk/youngmigraineurs
Clinical Research
Clinical studies shouldn’t be a scary concept - direct involvement with
medical research is a rewarding experience and your contribution could
support others immensely and help shape the future of medicine and
improve the health of future generations.
The words ‘clinical research’ are commonplace in glossy adverts. Claims to
reduce our wrinkles, turn back the years or make us look instantly younger
are often taken as fact. We take comfort from the fact that beauty brands
have put considerable time and effort into ensuring the products we
choose for our beauty routine have been adequately tried and tested.
However, when it comes to medicines, many of us have a negative
perception or are simply complacent about clinical research or clinical
trials. Do we give much consideration as to how a simple aspirin tablet has
been made available to us?
The history of clinical research
Clinical research is far from a new concept, with the first recorded clinical
trial being documented in the Old Testament. Between 605 and 562
BC, King Nebuchadnezzar II is reported to have ordered his followers
to eat a strict diet of meat and wine. Four children then convinced
Nebuchadnezzar to allow them to exchange this meal for a diet of pulses
and water. After only 10 days, those who switched to pulses and water
appeared more resplendent and well nourished than those who stuck to
meat and wine.
Physician James Lind was the first pioneer of clinical trials, as he was the first to introduce control groups into his
experiments. He carried out trials while at sea, on board the ship Salisbury in 1747. Seamen with scurvy were
given the same general diet, but this was supplemented with either cider, elixir vitriol (sulphuric acid), vinegar,
seawater, nutmeg and, most importantly, oranges and lemons. In just six days, patients who ate oranges and
lemons were fit for duty and thus it was concluded that scurvy could be prevented by citrus fruits as opposed
to other supplements. It was not until 50 years later that the Navy made lemon juice a compulsory part of the
seafarer’s diet, and this was soon replaced by lime juice because it was cheaper. This is why British sailors, and
later the British in general, were referred to as ‘limeys’ by the Americans.
Clinical research today
While clinical studies have advanced since the times of Nebuchadnezzar and James Lind, their importance and
the vital role they play in the future of medicine is no less significant. So why, despite their heritage, are clinical
trials not high up on the agenda of most modern people? Is it because science is a dark and daunting place, or is
it because such opportunities are rarely offered to us? Why do we hardly ever consider the role we could play in
improving the health of generations to come?
Essentially, clinical trials enable the development of
all medical treatments for everyday ailments through
to life-threatening conditions. Far from being a scary
concept, clinical trials operate in a highly regulated
industry. Prior to any clinical trial being undertaken,
approval must be sought from the appropriate
regulatory authorities and ethical committees. In the
UK, this is the Medicines and Healthcare products
Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the Research Ethics
Committee (REC). It’s after the relevant scientific,
regulatory and ethical bodies have approved the
protocol that clinical studies in the human population
can go ahead.
Different Phases of Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are conducted in a series of steps, called phases, and each phase is designed to answer a separate
research question. The different phases are as follows:
Phase of clinical trials
Description
Phase I
Phase I has the objective of ensuring the treatment is safe. The treatment is
tested in small doses on a small pool of people, usually healthy volunteers, to
check for any side effects.
Phase II
Phase II assesses the treatment in a larger number of people. This group of
people has the condition for which the treatment is designed. The purpose of
Phase II is to ensure that the treatment is safe, and that it is effective.
Phase III
Phase III involves many more patients, typically several thousands. Treatments
only move on to Phase III once the objectives of Phase I and II have been
achieved. During Phase III studies, the treatment under investigation is
compared to a treatment currently in use or a placebo. The study participants
will be unaware which treatment they are taking.
These three stages of testing can take between ten and twelve years. Only at this point will the treatment be
considered for licensing by the relevant authority.
Phase IV
Following licensing, some treatments undergo Phase IV testing. This phase is
designed to find out more about the long-term risks, benefits and use of the
product in different populations.
Which sort of people choose
to take part in such research?
condition and wish to contribute
to further research into its
treatment and cure. Others may
be related to or know someone in
such a situation. Others may be
driven purely by altruism and a
commitment to extending human
knowledge.
How to get involved
The first thing to say is that there
are lots of them! Around 35,000
individuals approached Synexus,
the world's largest multinational
company dedicated to the
successful recruitment and running
of clinical studies, to express an
interest last year alone.
Some may have an existing medical
Synexus has extensive experience in
late stage (phases II and IV) clinical
studies, having been involved in
clinical research for over 20 years.
Each year, thousands of patients
take part in clinical studies at
Synexus’ Dedicated Research
Centres across the world, seven
of which are in the UK. There are
many studies running throughout
the year that may be of interest
including potential treatments for:
• Migraine
• Osteoporosis
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Prevention of heart disease and
stroke
• Insomnia
• Bladder and bowel conditions
(IBS and OAB)
• Vaccine studies (shingles and
flu)
• Quitting smoking
• Asthma
• Alzheimer’s
Not all studies are paid, but some
do reimburse the patients for their
time and all reimburse patients for
out of pocket travelling expenses.
Participating in a Synexus clinical
study means patients receive
increased medical attention and
may benefit from medications
that aren’t yet available to other
sufferers of their condition, while
making a positive contribution to
the health of future generations.
What to Expect......
Everyone who contacts Synexus and expresses an
interest in a study is screened by phone to ensure
the study is right for them. That is followed by a
complimentary health check at a local Synexus centre,
which also allows for face-to-face discussions with a
nurse as well as a tour of the facilities.
Would-be participants are then given time to discuss
the matter with friends and their GP. A further,
thorough health check is then carried out by a Synexus
doctor before any study takes place.
There is no obligation for people to participate in the
study and they remain free to withdraw at any time.
If they do decide to take part in a study, their GP will be
kept fully informed of their involvement.
What People Say......
“I would have no hesitation in taking part in a study with Synexus in the future. The staff are excellent and
there is absolutely nothing to be afraid of. You get a thorough health examination from head to toe so, even if
you don’t get accepted to take part in the study, you have peace of mind about your health”.
Patricia McNeilage, Dunbartonshire
“My experience has been positive from start to finish – everyone at Synexus was
fantastic and I was really looked after at all times. I feel proud that I have helped make
a contribution to medical research and wouldn’t hesitate to take part in a clinical study
with Synexus again if there was one suitable for me“.
Ann Haigh, Staffordshire
For More Information......
Scotland
Venture Building
No 1 Kelvin Campus
West of Scotland Science Park
Maryhill Road
Glasgow
G20 0SP
0141 945 6850
Lancashire
24 Eaton Park
Matrix Park
Buckshaw Village
Chorley
PR7 1NY
01772 819600
Merseyside
Burlington House
Crosby
Waterloo
L22 0LG
0151 920 1555
Cardiff
1-2 Purbeck House
Lambourne Crescent
Cardiff Business Park
Llanishen
Cardiff
CF14 5GJ
0292 076 4455
Manchester
1st Floor, Wiliams House
Manchester Science Park
Lloyd Street North
Manchester
M15 6SX
0161 608 7790
Midlands
Birmingham Research Park
Vincent Drive
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2SQ
0121 414 0303
Thames Valley
Wellington House
Worton Drive
Worton Grange
Reading
RG2 0TG
0118 987 4088
To find out more about the studies
that Synexus is currently running at its
Dedicated Research Centres across the
UK please call 0800 027 8383 and quote
reference number 11033.
Issue 17 - January 2013 www.migraine.org.uk
PG11
Common Types of Headaches and How to Treat Them
There are many different types of
headaches, some more painful than
others. Below is a list of common
headache types and how to treat
them:
DOUBLE-SIDED HEAD SQUEEZER - Daily pain on both
sides of the head, which feels as if it is being squeezed.
Possible cause: Often termed “medication overuse
headache” / “rebound headache” this type of headache
can be caused due to overusing medication or abruptly
withdrawing from them. Taking painkillers like
paracetamol and aspirin more than two to three times
a week or triptans for more than ten days a month
can put you at risk of developing a daily headache.
Treatment: Your doctor may prescribe preventative
medication, such as anti-depressants or anti-epilepsy
drugs to help you ease off the medication and raise your
pain threshold.
TOP OF THE SKULL HEAD SQUEEZER - Pain accompanied
by sensations that the head is pushed from the top or
sides.
Possible cause: Stress or tension headaches can be
triggered by poor posture or teeth grinding.
Treatment: You can try wearing a mouth guard at night,
getting some fresh air, taking painkillers or trying things
that help you to relax like yoga, a hot bath or having a
relaxing massage.
HEAD EXPLODER - A dull throbbing pain in the front of
your head, feeling of pressure, watery red eyes and fever.
Possible cause: Can be caused by blocked or inflamed
sinuses behind the eyes, nose and cheeks. Sinuses can
swell up as a result of infection, particularly during a cold
as the inflamed passages block the drainage of mucus.
Treatment: Sinus headaches tend to subside within a few
days. However, you can take over-the-counter medicine,
such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to help reduce the
inflammation. If symptoms continue beyond 10 to 14
days go and see your GP as you may need antibiotics.
LIGHT-HEADED HEADACHE - Pain and light-headedness
sometimes accompanied by nausea and nervousness.
Possible cause: Often felt by people who drink lots of
coffee or soft drinks as they may suffer from caffeine
withdrawal headaches when they cut back.
Treatment: Have no more than 300mg of caffeine each
day - equivalent to three mugs of instant coffee or four
cups of tea. Typical cola drinks contain less than 50mg of
caffeine per can.
HEADACHE BEHIND EYES - A constant dull ache behind
the eye sockets.
Possible cause: Strain on the eyes can trigger asthenopia
headaches, which can be debilitating. It’s important to get
an early diagnosis because it can sometimes be caused
by more serious conditions, such as glaucoma or cancer.
One of the main causes of eye strain is not wearing the
correct glasses or any glasses at all when you need them
and spending a lot of time looking at computer screens.
Treatment: If you need to work looking at a screen, make
sure you take short breaks every 20 minutes to allow the
Challenging Migraine - The newsletter from Migraine Action
muscles in your eyes to relax.
CRIPPLING HEADACHE - Severe pain accompanied by
sensitivity to light.
Possible cause: Migraines can be triggered by factors
including diet, changes in temperature and even artificial
lighting. Intense pain is thought to stem from the
trigeminal nerve, lasting for hours and even days if left
untreated.
Treatment: Triptans, such as Imigran, can help if taken at
the onset of symptoms. If you’re getting weekly migraines
and medication isn’t working, doctors can prescribe
preventative medication, such as amitriptyline.
BENDING DOWN HEADACHE - Pain on bending down or
moving head side to side.
Possible cause: Not drinking enough can lead to
dehydration. Experts believe dehydration may cause
blood vessels to narrow, reducing the brain’s supply of
blood and oxygen.
Treatment: Make sure you drink at least six to eight
glasses of fluid a day, don’t wait until you feel thirsty.
MONTHLY HEADACHE - Pain that strikes once a month.
Possible cause: Women often experience headaches
during and around the time of their period when levels of
oestrogen are very low.
Treatment: Over the counter pain relief may be effective.
If these don’t work triptans can be prescribed by your GP.
Frovatriptan has been recommended as the preferred
therapy for menstrual migraine as it tends to stay in the
body for longer (up to 26 hours). If treating each attack
does not work your GP can prescribe medication to
take around the time of your period, such as oestrogen
supplements or non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDS).
ALARM CLOCK HEADACHES - Excruciating pain that is
centred around one eye which can spread to the temples
and cheeks. Lasts from 30 minutes to four hours and can
occur one to eight times a day.
Possible cause: Cluster headaches, also known as suicide
headaches or alarm clock headaches tend to come in
clusters over a month or so, and strike at the same time
each day. One eye may go red and water and the lid
may droop, possibly due to disruptions in the trigeminal
nerve, the main nerve in the face.
Treatment: Medication, such as sumatriptan injectable
can help shrink the blood vessels. If an attack comes
on without a warning people can take the steroid
prednisolone every day for a week, which also helps
narrow the vessels.
PERFUME HEADACHE - Throbbing headache after using
or smelling perfume / strong scents on someone else.
Possible cause: Materials found in fragrances can affect
blood circulation in the brain, triggering pain. Chemicals
in perfumes and fragrances that can cause problems are
benzyl alcohol and anisyl alcohol. Sometimes natural
ingredients, such as clove or cinnamon oil, can also cause
headaches.
Treatment: It is best to use fragrance-free beauty
products and try and stay away from strong smells.
Challenging Migraine - The newsletter from Migraine Action
PG12
Current Research
Spring TMS Total Migraine System
New research into The Spring TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) Total Migraine System
was presented at the European Headache and Migraine Trust International Congress in London
in September 2012. Some doctors believe that this type of neurostimulation treatment which,
involves magnetic pulses being delivered to the back of the head, may present the future of
migraine management, particularly for those for whom traditional medications are not well tolerated.
The device has been undergoing trials for the past several years. Initially it was thought that the pulse might
interrupt the aura phase and prevent the development of headache and associated symptoms, but more recently
reports have suggested that the device may also offer pain relief for up to 48 hours with no noticeable side effects.
Latest study data suggests that 73% of migraineurs who were given the device at clinics in London, Hull, Bath,
Exeter, Liverpool and Aberdeen, reported a reduction or alleviation of pain. Migraine symptoms improved or did not
develop in 63% of patients and the number of headache days experienced declined for 53% of patients.
The device - developed by American medical technology company eNeura Therapeutics is likely to be more suited to
home use as it is quite bulky and not easily transportable, and this may prove an issue for potential users, especially
those with infrequent attacks. Another issue for potential users is the cost; whilst those in the research trials have
used the device on a complementary basis, going forward it is likely to have a considerable (approximately £120 per
month) fee. Dr Andrew Dowson, Chairman of Migraine Action's Medical Advisory Board, comments: "Although the
device is showing promising results and may offer a new and non-invasive treatment option in the future, I would
like to see a larger clinical trial undertaken to more fully assess which particular group of the migraine population
will benefit most and whether the benefit derived justifies any associated cost, in comparison to other management
options available".
Currently a pilot program of the device is underway in England with the device only being available through a select
number of headache clinics on prescription (please contact us for the list of participating clinics). Those wishing to
try the Spring TMS System should discuss it with their Headache Specialist. If you have already tried the system and
would like to give feedback to other members we would love to hear from you; please email info@migraine.org.uk.
with your comments.
NICE Guidelines on painkillers
New guidelines on painkillers were issued by The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
(NICE) on 19th September 2012, suggesting that people who regularly take medicines, such as aspirin,
paracetamol and triptans, could be causing themselves more pain than relief. The new guidance advises
GPs and other healthcare professionals to consider the possibility of "medication overuse" in patients
who have been taking medicines for up to half of the days in a month, over three months. It urges GPs
to consider whether the painkillers could be causing their patients' headaches and to be mindful of the
fact that different headaches require different treatments.
Dr Gillian Leng, Deputy Chief Executive of NICE says: "Although headache is the most common neurological
problem seen by GPs and neurologists, many people are not receiving correct or timely diagnoses. The key features
of medication overuse and the symptoms that distinguish the types of primary headache can be overlooked and
concerns from patients about possible underlying causes can lead to unnecessary hospital investigations. These can
mean people experience delays in receiving adequate pain relief from what can be an extremely disabling condition.
Our guideline outlines the assessments and treatments that people should expect to receive for primary headaches
and medication overuse. We hope that this will help GPs and other healthcare professionals to correctly diagnose
the type of headache disorder and better recognise patients whose headaches could be caused by their overreliance on medications".
Black mamba venom - a migraine cure?
A team of French scientists have found that black mamba venom (one of nature’s most deadly
toxins) to be a highly effective painkiller that does not cause the troublesome side effects of
opiates. The journal Nature recently published research outlining how proteins in the venom called
mambalgins tested as effectively as morphine in lab mice. “Mambalgins - are not toxic in mice
but show a potent analgesic effect upon central and peripheral injection that can be as strong as
morphine”, the report states.
Black mamba venom isn’t the only toxin that’s being developed for managing pain. Toxins from snakes, spiders,
and even scorpions are being evaluated as potential cure alls for our aches and pains. For example, companies like
Johnson & Johnson and Australia’s University of Queensland are partnering on a drug that uses peptides found in
spider venom to treat chronic pain and Israeli researchers are evaluating scorpions as a potential source for non
opiate painkillers. It will be interesting to see how this develops.
Issue 17 - January 2013 www.migraine.org.uk
Issue 17 - January 2013 www.migraine.org.uk
PG13
Current Research
Acupuncture more effective than topiramate?
The Consumer Justice Foundation recently published the results of a study conducted in Taiwan by Dr
Hen-Hong Chang, of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital entitled, “Acupuncture Versus Topiramate in Chronic
Migraine Prophylaxis: A Randomized Clinical Trial”.
As part of the study people who suffered from regular migraine headaches were split into two groups:
one group used topiramate to treat their migraine headaches and the other group was administered
regular acupuncture treatments of 30 minutes each at twice per week over 12 weeks. The study
concluded that the patients who were given acupuncture treatments saw a greater decrease in the
number of migraine headaches suffered.
Antidepressants, sleeping pills and anxiety drugs may increase driving risk
According to a recent study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, drugs
prescribed to treat anxiety, depression and insomnia may increase patients' risk of being involved in
motor vehicle accidents as psychotropic drugs, such as diazepam are said to affect the way the brain
functions and can impair a driver's ability to control their vehicle. The researchers have suggested
that doctors should consider advising patients not to drive while taking these drugs.
Lead researcher, Hui-Ju Tsai, from National Health Research Institutes in Zhunan, Taiwan states, "Our findings
underscore that people taking these psychotropic drugs should pay increased attention to their driving performance
in order to prevent motor vehicle accidents. Doctors and pharmacists should choose safer treatments, provide
their patients with accurate information and consider advising them not to drive while taking certain psychotropic
medications".
The research provides more evidence on the link between dose and driving performance, showing that higher
doses are associated with a higher risk of an accident. "Our data demonstrated significant dose effects for antidepressants, benzodiazepine and Z-drugs (used to treat insomnia)," said Tsai. "This suggests that taking a higher
dosage poses a greater danger to those intending to drive". The authors recommend that patients do not stop
taking their medication, but if concerned should consult their doctor.
Painful migraines do not affect how well you learn and remember
According to a new study published online by the British Medical Journal, migraines may be painful
but don't hurt your brain. Researchers found that women who suffered from severe headaches were
no
more likely to have trouble learning or remembering things than those unaffected by the condition.
Now according to the research from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, migraines are not
associated with cognitive decline. Cognitive decline is when the brain doesn't work as well as it used
to. For instance, someone may have memory problems, or have trouble learning a new skill or with
using language. Some decline is a normal part of ageing, however, when it is rapid and affects every
day life it is classed as dementia.
Lead researcher Pamela Rist comments: “Previous studies on migraines and cognitive decline were small and
unable to identify a link between the two. Our study was large enough to draw the conclusion that migraines, while
painful, are not strongly linked to cognitive decline. Compared with women with no history of migraine, those who
experienced migraine with or without aura did not have significantly different rates of cognitive decline. This is
an important finding for both physicians and patients. Patients with migraine and their treating doctors should be
reassured that migraine may not have long term consequences on cognitive function”.
Migraine in children may affect school performance
Children with migraine are more likely to have below average school performance than kids who do
not have headaches, according to new research published in Neurology.
The study of 5,671 Brazilian children aged 5 to 12 found that those with migraine were 30% more
likely to have below average school performance than those with no headaches.
The link between migraine and poor performance in school was even stronger for children with migraines that were
more severe, lasted longer, or for children with chronic migraine, as well as for those who also had emotional or
behavioural problems.
According to the study author Marcelo E. Bigal, MD, PhD, of Merck & Co "With approximately one-fourth of schoolage children having headaches with migraine features, this is a serious problem, especially for those with frequent,
severe attacks that do not subside quickly. Parents and teachers need to take these headaches seriously and make
sure children get appropriate medical attention and treatment".
Challenging Migraine - The newsletter from Migraine Action
PG14
Challenging Migraine - The newsletter from Migraine Action
Living with Migraine
One of our young migraineurs Millie shares her migraine story:
“I started getting migraines when I was 11. We didn't know what it was at first and I got quite scared. I
went to the doctors after having two attacks and told them what happened. The doctor diagnosed me
with severe migraine and put me on pizotifen. This medication didn't work for me and I got referred to
the hospital.
I had just started secondary school and I found this really scary as I was only 11 and had been told that
I had to see someone at the hospital regularly, I didn’t know what to think. The doctor confirmed that
it was migraine and nothing else. He put me on a different medication called propranolol. I was taking this drug
three times a day, this meant I had to take it at school and I didn't know what my friends would think about it. I
had nothing to worry about, they all understood that if I didn't take the medication I would be ill.
I only told my really close friends what it was really like to live with migraine. It was hard for me to get people to
understand, as people think that I'm being dramatic and it's only a headache and that I should get over it. When
I got the attack I had to take a nasal spray. I really didn't like doing this as it made me feel sick and I could feel the
liquid running down my throat. To this day I can't look at the packet because it makes me heave.
I went back to the hospital as the medication was making my blood pressure really low and I got dizzy spells all
the time. The doctor took me off the medication and put me on another one to see if this would work. He also
took me off the nasal spray and put me on an injection, for when I had the attack. I didn't like taking the injection
but I got on with it, and people at school thought that it was quite impressive that I had the guts to inject myself.
When I got into my second year at secondary school my migraines started to really get me down. I was getting
really anxious about getting a migraine, that I stopped going to places on my own in case I got an attack, as I
didn't want to be on my own. My year head at school suggested that I saw one of the youth workers at school;
this helped me so much as I realised that I can’t keep thinking about ‘what if’ moments. Whilst I was seeing my
youth worker my doctor suggested that it might be a good idea if I came off medication altogether. I didn't want
to, but I talked to my youth worker about it and had a go. Unfortunately, my migraines didn’t disappear, instead
they came back with a vengeance. I had to persuade my doctor to put me back on propanalol because that's
what I felt happy on and safe. The doctor didn't want me to take propanalol as it made my blood pressure too
low but being on a lower dose worked for me.
With propanalol I had my life back. I'm 14 now and I am like any other teenage girl. I still have the constant fear
of getting a migraine which I try and push to the back of my mind and concentrate on more important stuff like
the latest fashion and the hottest new boy band. I love my life now. I'm still on propranolol and not getting the
dizzy spells as often as I was. When I get a attack I have been prescribed the injection which I'm too scared to
take, so I just put up with the migraine for a day or two and get on with it. The only down side to all this is, that I
have to have lots of time off school and sometimes I get a bit behind but that's nothing to worry about, I'll soon
catch up.
Me and my friends have a little joke now to see if I can make a full week at school, with hospital appointments,
orthodontic appointments etc. One time I got sent for an MRI scan to double check that I did only have
migraines and that there wasn’t an underlying problem, the doctors couldn’t believe how chilled out I was
about it. Luckily the results came back all fine. Something else that the doctor mentioned was I have patches
on my skin that are darker then the rest of my skin. I've always thought that they were birthmarks but they can
be linked with migraines so that's something that I'll be looking into because there’s always something new to
discover”. Has anyone else experienced this? If so, we would love to hear from you.
Rathke Cleft Cyst
A member called the office to tell us that he is not a
migraineur after all. After 15 years they have finally
found he has a Rathke Cleft Cyst on his pituitary gland
which they believe has caused all his neurological
systems. He has had numerous scans and treatments
for many years but the health professionals just kept
missing it. He has been treated all these years for
epilepsy, migraine etc. and taking all sorts of medication
that he did not need.
Feedback from member
Nicola comments: “I just wanted to say a big thank you
for your support yesterday on the helpline. I cannot
believe this charity exists and I had never heard of
it. Rebecca (Specialist Headache Nurse) gave me a
call back and she was absolutely lovely. She was so
kind and full of incredible knowledge. She has given
me the confidence to ‘give it a go’ in terms of trying
preventative treatments. She has also advised me on
different triptans to try as I had previously ruled them
out after a nasty experience with Imigran. Best £10
I have spent in a long time! I went to bed last night
full of hope that I can begin to tackle my migraines
again - obviously I am not under any illusion that things
will disappear completely as they are so connected
to my cycle just now, however if I can get them back
under control again I might have my life back. Your
information leaflets are fabulous too - packed full of
useful information”.
Issue 17 - January 2013 www.migraine.org.uk
Issue 17 - January 2013 www.migraine.org.uk
PG15
MA Shop
Treat yourself or someone you know with great products 
from MA’s shop. Profits from all products help MA to
Item
continue its work.
1. Fleximan clock
We have various products available to purchase, ranging
from bags, to USB desk fans and pens. To place your order 2. Blue ballpen
please complete and return the form opposite to Migraine 3. Flexible USB cooling
Action, 27 East Street, Leicester, LE1 6NB, or visit our fan
website at www.migraine.org.uk/shop to order online.
4. Scarves
1.
2.
4.
3.
5.
Price
£3.99
£0.99
£3.50
£2.99
5. Cotton shopper
Postage and packaging
(P&P)
1 - 3 items: £1.50
4 or more: £2.50
No of Items
£2.99
Total goods
£
P&P
£
Donation
£
Total
£
I enclose a cheque for £........ payable to Migraine Action.
Name: .............................................................................
Address: .........................................................................
Email: .............................................................................
Tel no: ............................................................................
Things you can do to help make a difference:
• Recycle your empty inkjet cartridges and old mobile phones with Each One Counts. Visit our partner site by
clicking the link www.eachonecounts.co.uk/migraineaction.
• Do you own a banger that’s merely gathering dust in the garage? Recycle your scrap car and raise money for
Migraine Action. To arrange collection of a car, visit www.giveacar.co.uk or call 020 0011 1664, and remember
to quote Migraine Action as your preferred charity.
• Donate any unwanted gold, silver, costume jewellery and watches, including any broken items. Please visit
www.jewelleryrecycling.org for more information.
• Use Everyclick.com as your home page - we receive a donation from them each time our supporters use their
facilities to search the internet.
• Do you like shopping? Sign up to shop online at www.giveasyoulive.com/migraine-action - various retailers
will donate money to Migraine Action with every purchase you make at no extra cost to you.
Update on availability of
Feverfew
As mentioned in the September 2012 issue
of ‘Challenging Migraine’, since April 2011
all herbal products must have a licence
called a Traditional Herbal Registration
(THR) and only products with this licence
can now be marketed in the UK. In regards
to feverfew there are currently only two
licensed feverfew products; Migraherb and
Diamigraine/Diafeverfew (they have different
THR numbers) that are available. What may
be confusing is that companies are selling the
same product (with the same THR number)
but under different brand names. For
example Higher Nature (www.highernature.
co.uk) sells Migraherb. This is also sold by
Healthspan and Boots – it’s the same product
but sold under their own brands names.
When buying herbal products look out for
the THR number on the packet; if they have a
THR number they are safe to use.
Migraine Pen Pals
We have a member who is looking for a pen pal. The member is
extremely light sensitive and has particular problems with low
energy light bulbs. She is not able to watch TV or spend time on
a computer as this triggers her migraine. She would love to hear
from anyone who has similar experiences. Code: PENPAL009. Other
penpals can be found on our website or by contacting us.
Writing to a pen pal can be a great way to share experiences and to
beat the sense of isolation that can accompany migraine.
lf you would like to communicate with a Migraine Action pen pal,
please send us an email or a letter with a short biography about
yourself with your contact details and Migraine Action membership
number. If you could also write a brief letter or email directly to the
pen pal you would like to correspond with (stating their pen pal
code) and send it to us. We will then forward this onto them and
the relevant pen pal will contact you directly if they wish. If you
are communicating by post please also enclose a blank stamped
envelope with the pen pal code written on the back of the envelope.
All items then need to go into a separate envelope and sent to:
Migraine Action, 4th Floor, 27 East Street, Leicester. LE1 6NB. Email
requests need to be sent to info@migraine.org.uk.
Challenging Migraine - The newsletter from Migraine Action
PG16
Challenging Migraine - The newsletter from Migraine Action
Migraine in the Media
Coverage of migraine in the media over recent weeks includes:
On 5th September 2012 Joanna Hamilton-Colclough, Director of MA, talked about migraine and
Botox with Fayyaz Ahmed (neurologist at Hull Royal Infirmary) on BBC Look North.
Also in September Joanna Hamilton-Colclough talked about migraine on Marlow FM and Radio Chester.
In September migraine and painkillers was mentioned in - The Times, The Scotsman, Western Mail, The Independent,
Metro (London), The Daily Telegraph, The Sun, The Guardian and Daily Express.
In November 2012 Pick Me Up magazine featured our media volunteer Elaine Ransome, talking about how Botox has
helped reduce the frequency of her migraines.
Update on Ban of Incandescent Light Bulbs
At the moment some incandescent light bulbs are
still available but they are not meant to be sold to the
public. Fireglow and other coloured incandescent
lamps are specifically exempted from the ban; however,
mainstream manufacturers are no longer supplying
them. Golf ball and candle bulbs of 25W and 40W are
now banned. However, it may be possible to still get
15W and 20W.
The Spectrum Alliance met with Lord Taylor of Holbeach,
former Environment Minister, on 21st August 2012. The
UK says it will not ask for an exemption to allow people
to obtain incandescent light bulbs in the review in 2014.
They did so last time when the regulations were being
negotiated and received no support from other countries.
Recently MA and Spectrum have spoken to
Struan Stevenson, a Scottish MEP who is helping
to stop the total ban on incandescent bulbs in
Europe. He is organising a meeting with us and
the EU Health Minister/EU Environment Minister
to discuss our request for a derogation (this seems to be
the proper word rather than an exemption) soon - we
will keep you informed of the progress.
How you can help this ongoing battle?
• Write to your MPs advising that you give your backing
to Sheila Gilmore MP’s support for the Spectrum
Alliance campaign in Westminster.
• Write to your MEPs asking them to write to the
Commission asking for an exemption from the ban
for light sensitive people and raise the matter in the
European Parliament.
• Write to Commissioner Gunther Oettinger, EU
Commissioner for the Environment, asking for an
exemption to the ban for light sensitive people
when the ban is reviewed in 2014. His address is as
follows: Commissioner Gunther Oettinger, European
Commission, B-1049, Brussels, Belgium.
In 2016 the EU will look at the regulation again and may
also ban energy-saving halogen incandescents. (These
use 30% less energy than ordinary incandescent bulbs.)
These bulbs are still a problem for people who have light
sensitive Lupus and some others.
Courses on Headache Disorders at the University of Edinburgh
The department of Anaesthesia and Pain Medicine at the University of Edinburgh is developing a new, online suite
of programmes that focus on the Clinical Management and Treatment of Headache Disorders.
Only a very few live a life without headache and the majority of us experience headaches at least monthly. Despite
the number of different headache disorders, such as migraine and chronic headache, and the impact they have
on society at a global level, headache is poorly represented in both undergraduate and postgraduate medical
education. A focus on providing education at the Primary Care level is likely to be the critical step in improving the
fortunes of sufferers.
The course options will consist of singular continuing professional development (CPD) units as well as options for
Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma and Master of Science Degrees.
This suite has been designed for qualified healthcare professionals of any discipline and is specifically relevant to
those working in primary care in any country. It will appeal to doctors, nurses (nurse practitioners and practice
nurses), physiotherapists, pharmacists, chiropractors / osteopaths, and other allied / complementary practitioners,
provided they are accredited by the appropriate professional bodies. No specific knowledge is required to take any
of the courses beyond that already gained by the above healthcare professionals.
If you require any further information about any of these courses then please contact Dr Chris McKenzie at
cmckenz4@staffmail.ed.ac.uk.
Incorporation vs CIO (Charitable Incorporated Organisation)
A letter was sent out to all members in October 2012 enclosing the resolutions required for incorporating the
charity to become a company limited by guarantee. We thank all of you who responded to this letter and would
like to advise that a decision was taken at our AGM in November 2012 to withdraw these draft resolutions. After
having sent out the letter we learned that an alternative to becoming incorporated, becoming a CIO (which was
our preferred option but was not available at the time) is going to be available in 2013. We will keep you updated
as soon as we receive more information on this.
Issue 17 - January 2013 www.migraine.org.uk