NHS migraine clinic 'revolutionary' for patients

Claire Fisher, senior specialist headache nurse at UHSx, said new treatments mean patients are getting their lives back

A specialist headache service in Sussex has been described as "revolutionary" following the introduction of new drugs specifically to target migraine.

The service at University Hospitals Sussex (UHSx) offers people faster access to specialist care, reducing delays and improving patient outcomes.

It has been boosted by the introduction of new medications for oral treatments, infusions and injections, including botox.

Claire Fisher, senior specialist headache nurse at UHSx, said patients were "getting their lives back" due to people now being able to access these treatments earlier through their GP.

"It's been revolutionary," she added.

Around 10 million people aged 15-69 in the UK suffer from migraines and chronic headaches, which are classified as a disabling illness.

The main symptom of migraine is usually an intense headache on one side of the head and may affect your face or neck.

Other symptoms may include: nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light and sound.

Ms Fisher said the impact of migraine is widely underestimated.

"I've had patients who have decided not to have children because that meant they would come off their preventative treatment," she said.

"We've had patients who have lost friendships and relationships because the unpredictable nature of the disorder."

Specific treatments available at the clinic include oral treatments such as Rimegepant, infusions such as Eptinezumab and injections, including botox.

Ms Fisher said her team worked hard to make sure that patients could access information and treatments "that will get them better before they become so ill."

Paul Dwyer has more than 30 botox injections at a time to ease his migraine

One of the clinic's patients, Paul Dwyer, has lived with migraines from the age of ten.

"I think the worst times are when I'm violently sick," he said. "It can just be so painful."

Since starting botox treatment Mr Dwyer said: "There are days when I feel odd because I don't have any form of headach, so that's a big, big bonus."

Dr Jeban Ganesalingam said the new migraine pathway means patients can access drugs earlier through their GP with recommendation from a specialist

Dr Jeban Ganesalingam, consultant neurologist at UHSx said new drugs target a chemical in the brain called CGRP.

"These are the first drugs to be developed for migraine specifically.

"It has been helpful for patients who have tried several other drugs in the past."

The migraine pathway developed by UHSx staff has received national recognition and plans have been launched for neighbouring NHS organisations across the South East to adopt the model.