Expert: Bob Kambic - 2/7/2007

Question
Hi.  I have been on birth control for four years.  It seems that in these four years my health has decreased.  I do not get colds or flus but I have constant muscle pain.  It is almost like I have fibromyalgia.  I get headaches during my "Period" that last 6-7 days.  I know that the headaches are connected to the hormones but is my muscle pain.  I have constant pain in my legs especially on my IT band.  My arms often feel as if somebody has been hitting me.  I also get large knots in my neck and shoulders especially during my cycle.  Any ideas?

Answer
Many women get migraines when they are young and fertile. You should be seeing a physician for your headaches. New pain medicine helps the migraines. I don't know about the muscle pain and the knots in your neck and shoulders. I can't find anything about that in the American Society of Health -System Pharmacists 2005 Drug Information book. Have you mentioned these sysmptoms to your healthcare provider?