When a Migraine Threatened to Ruin My Wedding Day
As I woke up on my wedding day, I could immediately feel a migraine brewing. It wasn’t a full-blown, debilitating migraine, but it was one giant cloud threatening a storm.
I knew all too well that migraines often come at the most inconvenient times with no regard for one's life, but my wedding day? That just felt cruel. But I wasn't going to let it ruin my day, especially not when I was about to marry my best friend. So, like it or not, I had to prioritize my health throughout the day.
How did I prioritize my health?
It meant that I had to have a glass of water when I really wanted a glass of champagne or wine. It meant that I had to manage my energy as I was getting ready with all my bridesmaids in the morning. I didn't want to get caught up in the moment and then have a full-blown debilitating migraine before I walked down the aisle at 2 pm.
I also was fully aware that this was more than just getting through the day – albeit one of the most important days of my life – we were also leaving for our honeymoon in two days. I wanted to feel better for the all-inclusive beach vacation we had been dreaming about - and budgeting for - for months!
I wish I could say that I discovered a magical guarantee to take away the attack on these important days, but I haven’t. However, what I did discover are some tips that helped me and hopefully can help you too for managing a migraine on special days like weddings, birthdays, or other important occasions.
What can you do during the day?
Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is essential for managing migraines. Make sure you have a water bottle with you at all times and take sips regularly. Dehydration can trigger migraines, so it's important to stay hydrated. I tend to get nauseous with migraines too, so I really try to jump ahead of dehydration.
Eat well balanced meals. Eating well-balanced meals throughout the day can help prevent migraines from developing. I often find that having smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day helps too. And, of course, avoid skipping meals or eating sugary, processed foods that can further trigger migraines.
What can you do ahead of the special event?
Manage your energy levels. If you have an important day coming up, make sure you manage your energy levels leading up to the event. Get enough sleep, avoid pushing yourself past your threshold, and take breaks when you need to. I know that the night before an event, I’m going to have extra excitement and anticipation, so I likely will not sleep my best, so focusing on good sleep several days prior helps me to stay ahead of this as much as possible.
Practice good self-care. Self-care is crucial for managing migraines – we know it, but are we really doing it? I know I’m guilty of letting it slip. Prioritize relaxation techniques such as prayer, deep breathing, or stretching. I’m most successful in doing this when I set the expectation that I only have to do it for 5-10 minutes. I’m far more likely to be consistent with a shorter routine than the “perfect” routine that takes 40 minutes a day.
What should you plan to have the day of?
Have a plan in place. If you know you're prone to migraines - which, if you’re reading this and part of this community, I’m guessing that you are – have a plan in place for managing them on important days. This might include packing a migraine relief kit, including your medication, an ice pack, essential oils, or whatever best helps you manage the pain when a migraine strikes.
How can attitude play a role?
Keep a positive mindset. Lastly, try to maintain a positive mindset, even if you're not feeling your best on a special day. Remember that the event is about celebrating a special occasion and focusing on the things that bring you joy. Try not to let your migraine overshadow the day and stay present in the moment.
These are just a couple of tips and practices that have helped me to manage a migraine on a special day, but I want to learn from you too! Will you share in the comments below, what has helped you?
Join the conversation