For my experiment of one (me), my neurologist had me on lower doses of nortriptyline, which we both increased to a point where my exertion headaches were kept at bay.

Plus as an added benefit, the nortriptyline is also an anti depressant which has helped me weather the frustration of having to wait this "it'll take time to heal" period. I can attest that there have been frustrating times where literally no one around me understands which is why I come here, to learn, to vent, to know I'm not alone.

I've also been prescribed clonozepam for panic/anxiety attacks. Thankfully they work for me. I've tried a couple of other meds but they didn't work for me. A skillful neurologist will work with you to get your doses/meds dialed in for you.

It took me a bit of time to accept taking meds as I've been quite healthy and lucky not having to take any meds in the past, but I accepted this as a path to relaxed and non-stressful healing. I'd rather try to heal my brain in a calm environment rather than it being stressed and anxious.

I, too, understand the frustration.

Mike