Yes, the heat bag has always helped me more than the tegretol. My pain is in my right ear, so I found a "ear warmer" headband that has pockets for the little instant heat bags like they place in gloves and shoes. I keep it here at work so that if I have an episode I will have some relief to make it through the work day. I haven't had to use it yet, but think it will work - although, I will look rather odd with this band around my head.