Are you experiencing headaches, nausea, light sensitivity, and severe pain? You might have Migraines. And if you live in Bend, Oregon, you’re especially unlucky, as it’s one of the worst places in the country for adequate migraine treatment. Fortunately, you can take steps to advocate for better treatments for yourself and others.
Migraines, a neurological disorder, are much more than a headache. Those who suffer from the condition often describe it as a “headache from hell” and live in fear of the next episode. Besides intense, one-sided, pulsating head pain, migraine can come with visual disturbances, nausea, vomiting, and hypersensitivity to light, noise, and smell. Oftentimes, the pain is unbearable for hours, even days, without relief.
Unfortunately, those who live in Bend don’t have many options when it comes to obtaining advanced migraine treatment. Oregon as a whole does a poor job of providing comprehensive migraine care, despite the state having an above-average prevalence of migraines compared with the rest of the country. One study found that just over 50% of those suffering from migraines in Oregon have seen a doctor to discuss their symptoms within the last three years. Of those, more than one in eight reported that their nearest doctor was more than 50 miles away. Additionally, only 30% of those seeing a doctor were receiving any kind of migraine treatment or management advice.
Why Bend Needs Better Migraine Treatment?
The lack of resources for migraine treatment in Bend not only affects those currently suffering from the condition, but also makes it less likely that people in need of care will seek it out. That’s because many who have migraines have anxiety or fear about getting the appropriate help for their condition, given the dearth of options available. Many say they do not want to travel long distances for treatment; those in the state are thus significantly less likely to seek care.
Because research shows that delaying treatment can lead to longer-lasting and more severe outcomes, it is essential to get people connected with the necessary resources and healthcare providers sooner than later. Additionally, effective treatment can improve the quality of life for people with migraines, both in terms of decreased symptoms and fewer interruptions and limitations in daily living.
Take Action for Better Migraine Treatment in Bend
Not one individual has the power to single-handedly change the state of migraine care in Bend, Oregon. Still, there are concrete actions you can take to take a step in the right direction for both yourself and others.
Promote Awareness
Promoting awareness of migraines and the associated challenges and limitations can help the general public and those in power understand the need for better care. Share information about migraine causes, symptoms, and treatments with friends, family, and co-workers. Post on social media sites, write editorials, and speak at community events to educate others about the condition.
Advocate for Policy Change
Advocating for policy changes at the local, state, and national levels can improve the chances of getting comprehensive, effective migraine care in Bend. Contact local elected officials, as well as your state representatives and congressperson. You can personally reach out with calls, letters, and emails from yourself or organize a campaign with other concerned residents to voice your concerns and request change. Working with local advocacy organizations can provide education, resources, and ideas for grassroots advocacy.
Join a Migraine Support Group
Joining a migraine support group can be good both for yourself and for the benefit of others in the community. Through these groups, you can connect with and help those currently dealing with migraines find better ways to cope with their symptoms and take action to get better treatment in Bend. Through sharing information, experiences, and ideas, members can become more active in community events and start campaigns and initiatives that can help get them and others in the area the help they need.
Conclusion
It may seem overwhelming, but advocating for better migraine treatment in Bend is an achievable goal when approached in small, concrete steps. Start with promoting awareness, then move to advocacy at the policy and decision-making levels of government. Additionally, joining a migraine support group can help you feel better connected and able to make a more substantial impact in the community. By taking steps to get better migraine treatment in Bend, not only will you be improving your chances of getting access to effective care, but you’ll also be taking a step toward bettering the health of your community.