#cefaly

I got this thing bc my mom and I get nasty migraines and so far my mom hasn't tried it but I have and I think it's helping.

It has a "daily prevention" mode that's a 20 min session, and a "need help now" 60 min session. I did read up a bit on it and it sounds like the research is sound? Either way it feels really nice once you get used to it, like a literal massage for your forehead, and I personally do feel like it helps with my headache and migraines.

The relief seems to last a few hours but I can't say how it is long-term.

Cons: Not only is the dual-setting model $500, but the electrodes are a continued expense. They are supposed to last up to 20 times, but in my experience they seem to lose their adhesive quality in approximately 5 uses. I don't know if I can use some sort of medical tape over the whole thing to help. The electrodes cost about $10 each, so that's disappointing. I wash my face every time. Perhaps I am just a sweaty, greasy person.

The electrodes and their lack of stickiness make it a little difficult to wear it while doing things, but you can wear it while sitting or doing mild activity.

I have decided that it works well enough for me to keep it. I'm mostly just annoyed by the cost of electrodes. They're even expensive on eBay!

I’m sorry my presence on Tumblr has been sporadic lately... I still love you all, truly!

I’ve been dealing with several flaring illnesses (migraine, constant headache, painful hot flushing, fibromyalgia, small fiber neuropathy, inflammatory tenosynovitis in my shoulder, coccdynia, nerve pain in my back, IBS), and much increased pain overall. 

I’ve started using Cefaly for my intractable chronic migraine, in addition to continuing Botox and triptans as needed. For me, it hurts to use Cefaly. I am going to stick with it for at least 60 days, though. I’m praying it works, and I haven’t been going through daily torture for nothing.

I’ve been doing tons of research and graphic design work while rebranding my handmade jewelry and accessories shop, TrueImage Treasures. 

I would love it if you all would check out my shop, even if you can’t buy! I’d also love to hear anyone’s thoughts on my art and suggestions for new products--I love making people happy! trueimagetreasures.storenvy.com

It’s too early to tell if the unit has helped on the way of prevention. I average about 9-10 migraines a month, so I have to take a look at that on Migraine Buddy to really know for certain. I think I’ve had it about a week. (Side note that I’ve noticed the ingredient “lactic acid” even if it is plant derived, is a massive trigger. Goodbye, cheese substitutes!)

BUT I have used it when I have a migraine and it has reduced the pain by about 4 or so points. In that regard, it is incredible. Right now, we have people installing hardwood floors in the house, and it’s as loud as you’d expect. Cefaly, fioricet, and a judicious use of earplugs have helped with this. I have the US unit that only has one setting, but I think it works about the same as the other units might. 

Averaging 10 a month, thanks to easy tracking with Migraine Buddy. I’m certain that I’ve got medication overuse headache from fioricet (which, by the app’s estimation, is somewhat helpful 45% of the time). 

I have to keep reminding myself that it’s a bad day, not a bad life. 

I’m at the end of medications; there is nothing else I can try. When I go in for my next tramadol refill, I’m going to print out some info on Cefaly for my doctor to see if he’s willing to write a script for me.

I can’t help but feel a bit bitter though that it seems like conditions like migraines and fibromyalgia are tossed aside for conditions that people can see and recover from. It’s like if you’re permanently ill and will not get better, research and charity don’t care about you because you can’t inspire them with your struggle.