caret icon Back to all discussions

Living W/ Migraines in the Military

So I've had migraines sense about sophomore year in high school, but haven't had an attack sense I graduated and joined the military. When I get one they completely just shut me down, I don't know what triggers me, but I would like to find out a way to prevent them as best I can. I can always tell when they are going to hit because first my left eye can't focus to a point of pain, then spreads to the right eye. Next it becomes difficult to speak, focus on anything, and think of words. After that my left hand goes numb, spreading up my arm, then my right hand's fingers go numb, never spreading up the right arm. That's when the pain hits, feeling like my eyes are being pushed out from pressure, but the pain is always deep in the right half of my head.I usually tried to get home as quickly as possible in school, but in the military it will be hard. Seeing as the pain is so bad that it hurts to talk, listen, or even move I don't know what I'd do in situations. After the pain leaves I have a almost sore feeling for 3 days, 2 of those days I still have the pressure from behind my eyes, but not as bad. I just want to know if anyone can give me tips for my current situation, thank you!

  1. Hi 1fhtkxh,

    First, let me say thank you for your service. Let's see what information I can give you to help out.

    Our migraine patterns and symptoms can change as we age, but any time this happens its a good idea to talk with the doctor so he can rule out any other issues. Now, having said that, the first thing you may want to do is keep a detailed migraine diary to see if there are any patterns to your attacks, triggers and what medications work or don't work. This article details how to keep a diary that is very helpful; https://migraine.com/blog/keeping-migraine-diary-basics. Keeping a diary is easier than ever today with all the apps that are out there.

    Please let me know if that helps,
    Nancy

    Please read our rules before posting.