Troy Aikman's Migraine Game Plan

Former Professional Football Player Troy Aikman has had to deal with migraines for most of his life. He shares his story below.

I was tough on myself, not my headaches

Since I was young, I have experienced what I thought were just bad headaches, but like most guys, I just toughed out the pain. Even though my sister was diagnosed with migraines at a young age, seeing a doctor about my headaches just didn’t seem like something a guy should do, especially an all-pro quarterback.

After I retired from professional football, I began a career in television broadcasting, meaning I travel every week for half the year to cover football. It seemed like the stress and the travel were triggering my intense headaches. Throbbing pain would start in my temples, then move to the back of my head. Sometimes I would get nauseous.

Finally, I got help to tackle the pain

One day, I just decided enough was enough and spoke to a doctor about my symptoms. I was diagnosed with migraines, and he prescribed a migraine-specific medicine, which has really worked for me. With my work schedule, I can’t avoid my triggers, but at least now I’m better prepared. Talking to my doctor made a big difference.

Make a game plan to fight your headaches

My message is simple: Guys and ladies, if you get frequent headaches, don’t do what I did—endure the pain year after year. Make an appointment to see your doctor, and before you go, get educated. This Web site has lots of information. Take the Headache Quiz, and print out the results so you’ll be better prepared to discuss your headaches with your doctor.

Now, I know it can be difficult for anyone, especially men, to go to the doctor (We’re just not that good at it!), but you should know your doctor can help. Your doctor can diagnose your headaches and help you find a treatment plan that works for you. I’ve encountered some tough situations in my football career, but by being prepared, taking control, and working with my teammates, we came through and achieved great success. Trust me, when you team up with your doctor, you can create the right game plan to beat migraines. So don’t delay; call your doctor today.