The definition of a migraine is a headache of varying intensity, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
Those of us who suffer from chronic migraines know this definition all to well and have experienced unimaginable pain that has caused suffering and a large amount of inconvenience in our lives. It’s hard to explain to those who don’t suffer from this pain about how severe this can actually be and the effects that it has on your life. Here are a few things that those who suffer can all relate to.
1. Learning to deal with it throughout your life
Now that you suffer from this you will most likely deal with it for the rest of your life. Coping skills and learning what works for you will be the key to handling everything that you have to deal with.
2. People think you’re overreacting
When you say you have a sudden migraine, people tend to think that you are being dramatic and trying to get out of whatever you are doing. The truth of the matter is you want nothing more than to participate in whatever is going on, (I mean seriously FOMO is real) but, your pain is seriously THAT severe that all you can do is lay down. You know that even if you attempt to move the pain will be too much. It’s hard for people to understand what they can’t physically see.
3. Triggers can be so weird
Whether it’s that strong perfume someone just sprayed all over themselves to chewing gum too long. Triggers can be extremely weird but making sure you know what sets them off is important in order to avoid another horrible migraine.
4. Over the counter medication does not help
How many times have you heard just take an Advil? Or Excedrin? People that truly suffer from migraines know all too well that you can take whatever there is over the counter and you will still be in pain. Making sure you talk with your doctor about what perceptions or other methods can help is vital to survival with migraines.
6. Caffeine is your life saver
Coffee and soda are needed ASAP! Caffeine is a game changer and can help manage the pain to a certain level. Why is this? Typically when a migraine is occurring blood vessels tend to become enlarged. Soda and coffee contain “vasoconstrictive” properties which means that the blood vessels become narrow and it helps to restrict blood. This doesn’t work in all cases but, it can help ease the pain for most.
7. Learning to put yourself first
Migraines can cause a lot of suffering in one’s life. That is why self-care is extremely important and with migraines, this can not be expressed enough. Making sure that you’re taking care of your mind, body and soul can all help to alleviate the pain that comes with a migraine.
If someone you know suffers from migraines make sure to be kind and understanding to that person that suffers. Make sure that you understand it’s not their fault and that they are trying their best.
Living with migraines is a struggle but, it will only make those who suffer stronger. Keep on pushing through!