All About the Management

In response to a member,

I feel devastated for you as I can feel your pain. I have suffered migraine since the age of 10... I am now 54.
I just wanted to offer you some words of support:

1. Keep trying to find a remedy to help manage the pain

Whilst there is no cure, there is management. You will find that it will not just be one solution but a toolkit. For example, I have been using Triptans for years. Alongside I also keep Voltarol suppositories, buccastem tablets, and aspirin (not taken all at once). I find different pain relief works at different times. I recently started Nurtec (rimegepant, CGRP). I also have a Cefaly device which is helpful. I keep a tie (my husband's) which I tie around my head to help reduce the pressure. And cool strips in my handbag. I also make sure I have snacks in my car and bag as low blood sugar is a problem. You will find your toolkit.

2. Take time on being aware of what the triggers might be

Have you changed something in your life? Keep a strict diary of what you do and what you eat/drink, and even note what type of body products you are using. The pattern will emerge after 3 months. Perhaps you already know what your triggers are. Look for peculiar stuff in your environment. It's surprising what can cause migraine. I have a huge list of triggers. And as a result, people perceive me as a fussy person, but I have to avoid a lot of everyday stuff.

3. Think about your vision

If you are using a computer screen regularly as most young people will, then ensure that you have glasses with a filter to help ease the strain. I have a tint on my glasses... FL40.

4. Look beyond orthodox medicine

You might find solutions within the complimentary therapy world. You may possibly need a multi-disciplinary approach to managing your health.

5. As for studying, I struggled

However, I did go to university and do well. This came down to organization. I always planned and prepared in due time. I never left anything to the last minute. My assignments were in before the deadline. I paced myself well. The downside was that I could not party with my friends as late nights and alcohol were definite triggers. The sacrifice was worth it. One of my strongest skills is the ability to plan and organize as a result of being a sufferer. I use those same skills in my role as a director.

6. Once you have your triggers pinned down, you can work on management

This will give you good days in between. And those good days are important to use to the full extent. Try to make sure that you do one thing which makes you happy on a good day. That will help you get through. It gives you some quality of life and helps in preventing mental health issues such as depression.

7. Finally, after 4 decades... I can say that migraines change over time as life is dynamic

You may go through good years and then have a slump or you may just see an improvement altogether. Whatever happens, just keep your toolkit and ensure that you have the right people around you to support you.

I hope you find the right toolkit which helps in reducing your pain. It's not easy but keep hope.