The People's Pharmacy

Q: For years, I suffered from migraine headaches. I saw several neurologists, but my intense headaches forced me to take early retirement. In 2002, I went from three headaches a week to almost nonstop. I took migraine meds like Frova, Maxalt and Imitrex, but I mostly lay in bed in a dark room.

Then my family doctor suggested a gluten-free diet. Gradually my headaches became less frequent, and after several months I was 98 percent headache-free. Please share my story so others can benefit.

A: Migraine is not often recognized as a symptom of celiac disease, but we have heard from others like you who suffered until they eliminated dietary gluten. Celiac is more common than many physicians realize.

In this condition, sensitivity to gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley and rye) can result in symptoms such as fatigue, anemia, nerve pain, memory loss, osteoporosis, infertility, flatulence, diarrhea and digestive-tract distress. We recently spoke with Peter Green, M.D., director of the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University. He confirmed that migraines can be a symptom of celiac disease.

Q: I saw my family doctor to see what could be done for worsening allergies. When I told her I'd been taking Benadryl, she said to stop, because it can cause cognitive problems in older adults and could be detrimental for me.

A: Diphenhydramine, the antihistamine in Benadryl and many nighttime pain relievers (Excedrin PM, Tylenol PM, etc.), is sedating. People have slower reaction times on this drug, making driving hazardous. Others may experience disorientation or cognitive impairment. Older people may be especially susceptible.

In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them c/o King Features Syndicate, 888 Seventh Ave., New York, NY 10019, or e-mail them at pharmacy@mindspring.com or via their Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.org