Trying to Manage Migraines While Preparing for College — Any Guidance

I’m an 18-year-old dealing with classic migraines. It runs in my family, and for me, my menstrual cycle often seems to set it off. Because it’s hereditary, I’ve had guidance from my mother, and I’ve tried to be proactive: I’ve kept migraine diaries, seen multiple neurologists, and followed the advice I’ve been given — but most of it ends up sounding the same.

Right now, my whole life revolves around preparing for a highly competitive exam so I can get into a good college. There’s only so much I can realistically change in my lifestyle. I’m constantly told to avoid stress since it’s a major trigger, but when you’re a teenager trying to navigate this stage of life, avoiding stress feels almost impossible. And when a migraine hits, everything just falls apart. My studies suffer, my focus disappears, and all the work I’ve put in suddenly feels out of reach.

I’ve tried identifying my triggers, which seem to include foods like cheese, chocolate, and fermented items (like dosa and bread). However, I’ve never fully understood how it works. Some days I eat them just to test it out, and I’m completely fine — even though I know they’re triggers for me. Other days, I avoid them entirely and still end up with a pounding headache. It feels unpredictable and out of my control.

Sleep is another major trigger. Irregular sleep causes horrible migraine episodes, and at the same time, it becomes a hindrance to my study routine because I’m naturally more productive during the later hours of the day.

Most of the advice I hear — online and from people around me — is to “fix your lifestyle” and “just don’t stress.” I know they mean well, but in my situation, it feels unrealistic and dismissive.

I guess I’m just hoping to connect with others who are in a similar situation, or have been, and have insights that could potentially help. How are you managing both migraines and the academic pressure that comes with competitive exams?

Any insight, experiences, or even just knowing I’m not alone would mean a lot.