I started getting migraines about every two weeks when I was 14 years old. I started to notice that the migraines would come when my period would start and when I would ovulate. So when I was 15, I started taking birth control pills. I continue to have migraines at least once a month to this day and have tried several birth control pills and an IUD in addition to many other fixes. I have missed school, work, and honestly just missed out on my life because of my migraines. I even had a migraine at my prom that had me running to the bathroom to throw up several times. At 21 years old, I am starting to realize that the migraines might just be something I have to deal with for all of my menstrating life. I know that many other girls get migraines similarly, so here is a list of what I use to get through the headaches. At this point, I feel like I won’t be able to stop getting the migraines, but some of these make it bearable.
1. Imitrex & Nausea Meds
First of all, I didn’t have prescription migraine medication until I was 19 and while they don’t stop a migraine every time, they seem to at least shorten the duration/ severity of the headaches. I don’t take daily medication, my prescription is for when I start to get a migraine and works best if takes as soon as possible at the start of a migraine.
2. Ice Packs
Laying in bed with an ice pack is the only thing that makes me feel better if I already have a migraine. Sometimes, I will wake up feeling totally fine after napping with an ice pack.
3. BeKoool Strips
I bought a pack of these for $5 at CVS on a whim and they’re amazing! They are sticky strips that feel cold. I will actually stick this to my neck and forehead and go to class like that if I feel good enough to go to class but still sick enough to literally wear giant stickers on my forehead without giving a care. They last around 4 hours!
4. Eye Mask
My room doesn’t get particularly dark, so an eye mask comes in handy for trying to take a nap.
5. CranioCradle
This ridiculous looking contraption has saved my life so many times. My masseuse sold it to me about 4 years ago and I use it so often! The design hits pressure points in your neck that is meant to relieve tension. I actually will use this some night if I don’t have a headache.
6. Essential Oils & Diffuser
I can’t say for certain that this actually helps my headaches, but it does help set a relaxing mood when I’m miserable.
7. Acetaminophen & Ibuprofen
Probably obvious, and usually pain relievers don’t do anything for my headaches, but it’s worth noting that having both is nice because you can alternate which pain reliever you take without going over the acceptable dosage.