What Is in Your Migraine Playlist? Here’s My Top 10
My life has always revolved around music. I went from listening to all types of music as a young child to playing an instrument and making my own. Music is an evolving playlist that I actively curate each day. I can escape the stresses of life with music and use it as a motivational booster to help propel me forward when I'm dragging. My musical appetite changes based on what I am experiencing. Migraine days evoke a specific type of music, while non-migraine days require other types. The symptoms of my migraine attacks also play into my musical playlist.
How do migraine and music connect for me?
One of the most challenging symptoms of my migraine attacks is tinnitus. The more severe the attack, the louder the ringing. That's where my migraine playlists come in. Their primary purpose is to divert my attention from the constant ringing. Most of the music is soothing, but sometimes I need something with a strong, driving beat.
What songs distract me from my tinnitus?
Here are my top ten go-to artists, along with the songs that feature in my migraine playlist.
- Suite #1 in G Major by Bach
- Little Talks by Of Monsters and Men
- Benedictus by 2Cellos
- Wish That You Were Here by Florence and the Machine
- SOS by Abba
- Someone Saved My Life Tonight by Elton John
- Young and Naive by Heather Rigdon
- Knights of Cydonia by Muse
- Mr. Blue Sky by ELO
- Novocaine for the Soul by Eels
Since the songs change based on my attacks, these artists and songs will vary.
Do I have any sensitivity to sound?
I am very fortunate that sound, as it relates to most music, does not affect my attacks. Specific sounds bother me, such as the sound of the Army transport helicopters, Coast Guard Surveillance planes, and rumbling freight trains adjacent to my home. There are also 'sharp' sounds that cut like knives into my brain, like alarm sirens or sounds in high-frequency ranges. My migraine playlist does not contain any of those offending sound profiles!
How do I choose songs for my playlists?
Creating playlists for different aspects of my life is not just a hobby; it's a passion. It gives me the freedom to curate music from across many generations and genres. I listen to songs for the lyrics, some for the beat, and others for the instruments. Each category has its place in the playlists. Some songs are a perfect blend of all these elements, creating what I call my musical trifecta!
What songs do you listen to?
I understand that many people suffering from migraine attacks need silence. I have times like that as well. For those who can tolerate music during an attack or use it as I do to distract themselves from the symptoms, I think it would be fun to share your favorite songs and artists. What songs help tame your beast?
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