Living with Migraine (or Chronic Illness) Life Hacks

I have multiple chronic illnesses. We all know that life can be difficult, but when you throw in chronic conditions, that just complicates anything and everything in your life. There are things that can be done to simplify things. Who doesn’t like simplicity? Here are just some of the things that I have found beneficial in my life.

Tip #1

I barely have energy to comb my hair daily. I have plans on Fridays, to wash my hair. I can tell you that this rarely happens. My day may be going well, but if I do anything, like go to an appointment, my energy is shot for the day.

So, what I do is buy at least two containers of dry shampoo, at a time. I have found that some brands work better than others. Some leave a white residue. There are some great ones though that leave your hair feeling airy, clean and bouncy. It will smell clean and have less oil.

If you have the issue of not being able to wash your hair as frequently as you would like, you should try dry shampoo. I know so many chronic illness warriors, who do this. Make sure you read the reviews before choosing a brand. It may take some trial and error, but you will get there.

Tip #2

When I do wash my hair, I used to blow dry it and then straighten it. I saw an ad, on a deal site, that had a blow dry brush on sale. I decided to buy it. I am glad that I did. Not only did it cut the time down on blow drying my hair, but it also straightened it. As someone who has very curly, thick hair, I would have to first blow dry, and then use my flat iron. This new device, cut that step out for me. That is very important when you already are short on energy.

One thing that I would add is that if you are like me, with thick hair, you may still need to take breaks. I part my hair into four sections. I do one section at a time. I am able to do two sections, rest about ten to fifteen minutes, and then I can finish the rest.

My hands do not cramp with this method. Less time and steps, with overall happiness when I wash and blow dry my hair.

Tip #3

I used to be one of those people who would only use a traditional mob and bucket. Having migraines with vertigo, cervical/lumbar spine issues, plus Gastroparesis, led to me adapting my cleaning routing to suit my needs. I found a good price on some of those mopping pads that you attach to a flat cleaning base. I gave it a try and loved it. They do not have to be a certain brand. You can get the knock-off pads and attach them even to the brand model.

I love that I have found some that say they kill 99.9% of bacteria/viruses, plus, COVID-19. It says that it kills the germs for up to 24 hours. I know that most people do not “mop” every day. I do not even do that, but at least it gets some of the dirt off the floor, and rids it of some germs.

These come in all different scents. I am not sure if there are any unscented ones. I know many have sensitivities when it comes to scents. If you use this, be sure to search around for one that will not trigger a migraine, or allergic reaction for you.

Tip #4

How many of you have ever been hospitalized? I have on different occasions, for a variety of reasons. One thing that I have found is that they all would give me a packet of warm, cleansing, disposable wash cloths. I never knew you could buy these over the counter!! This is something that I feel everyone with a chronic illness should have. There are times when I am too weak to get out of bed. Sometimes, I may be recovering from surgery and cannot take a shower. These wipes will help you clean yourself up little some.

I first found out that you could buy them yourself, from a vlogger I follow. I found some in a dollar store locally. Ever since, I keep a few packs on hand for the unexpected days. I have seen unscented, aloe, and fresh scent ones. I like them all. The wipes come in handy.

I hope that you find these things helpful. What are your hacks?