Living Within the Confines of Chronic Migraine

By Holly Harding

1 min read

Migraine triggers lurk everywhere and in response to this fact, we learn to live within a set of parameters to lower the chances of encountering a flare-up. Due to this reality, life with chronic migraine can feel like a game of Operation in which a small move outside the borders means we lose. In this video, Holly discusses the myriad of triggers that exist and what it’s like to live within the confines of migraine.

In the comment section, we invite you to share your triggers and if you feel as if you are living in a restricted way to avoid them. We look forward to learning from you.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Migraine.com team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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kateymac Member
<inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> (Dictating, so plz excuse punctuation.) Hey Holly and everyone. I haven’t really sorted out my thoughts on this, but that image of the game Operation is just perfect. I played that game as a kid, and I loved that game I thought it was so cool. But I’m just laughing with familiarity at its great example of how it feels to try to get those itty-bitty pretend body parts out of those little metal spots with the tweezers that would BUZZ! when you got out of bounds. That image is one of the most perfect images I’ve heard yet for living with migraine. It’s such a narrow, narrow space that we can live in without getting zapped. Well, I might have more to say later but that game’s image is really amazing. Thanks -Kate 🌷
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="kateymac" user-id="3784217"/> - so glad this image resonates with you. I remember playing it as a child too. The anxiety provoking experience of trying to avoid that loud beep is not unlike the feeling people with migraine experience as we move through a world full of triggers. Thanks for chiming in - always great to hear from you. Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team
azreynolds Member
<inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> , I too laughed out loud remembering Operation! What a great metaphor! (And memory! Thanks for the chuckle!) My biggest triggers are severe barometric changes...either up or down (for some reason crossing over 30.0 sets me off!); petroleum byproducts masquerading as fragrances (polymers are now used in absolutely everything to make fragrances last longer, from makeup to grocery bags, and even large plastic bags used by construction crews...why?!); smoke of any kind including car exhaust; hunger or dehydration; red wine; lack of sleep; crying; and bright lights. That's it. Unfortunately, the first two items occur constantly. I can't control barometric pressure, but I can attempt to control my exposure to fragrances and polymers. The sad part to me is that polymers are cancerous, and yet people are literally bathing in them, oblivious to the exposure to these petroleum byproducts. I'm the canary in the coal mine, warning people, but they won't listen. There are articles all about it, but people would rather ignore the warnings just so they can smell good. So for me, all those fragrances everywhere means that I must live in isolation. Recently I started making my own clothes detergent and my husband and I were to thrilled to take a deep breath of the clean clothes, smelling only... "clean"! It was the same smell that we both remembered from our childhood. Just good old fashioned CLEAN! God, it's so lovely! People should try it. Thanks again for a great topic!
1. azreynolds Member
 <inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> , No, flashes don't bother me unless it goes on nonstop, but loud noises do get me, so we keep the subtitles on, and the sound down. I loved The King's Speech, but I wish my last big screen adventure had been something more visual like Avatar. The thing about the chronic migraine club, anyone is welcomed...but I wish NOBODY was here! Hugs!
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="azreynolds" user-id="3677307"/> - beautifully put. Sending love your way. Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team
Alene L. Brennan, RYT Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> this is such a great question and I too love your analogy of the Operations game. I have a laundry list of foods, beverages and cigarette smoke. I have to add though that what I find most frustrating about living within the confinements of migraine are the occasional comments from people who mean well, but say things like "wow, maybe if you just loosen up a bit, it would help." It suggests that our way of managing migraine is actually the cause of migraine. Again, I understand from the outsider's perspective it doesn't make sense why we have to live within so many limitations, but it doesn't make the comment any easier to receive. - Alene, Moderator
1. Rebecca C Moderator
 <inline-mention username="Alene L. Brennan, RYT" user-id="3663804"/> - the confinement of migraines, umph. It's definitely challenging. I understand the frustration when comments are brought up about how the way we are "managing" migraines may indeed be the reason we have them. I've had to bite my tongue many times over the past few years. But I've learned I don't have to justify or defend my experience to others. My well-being always comes first. I do not always take the time to educate others, but when I have the energy I calmly and confidently assert my perspective. This way I can help enlighten others in my immediate circle about the complexities of migraines, hopefully reducing misconceptions about their causes and management. The analogy of the Operation game is fantastic! Never thought about it that way. With warm regards, Rebecca (community moderator)
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Rebecca C" user-id="3677527"/> - So glad the operation game analogy worked for you. I love what you shared here- that with time you've let go of the need to justify or defend your experience with others. That kind of wisdom comes only with time, I think. I also like how you assess your energy before deciding whether or not to try to raise awareness in others because it is an energy-taking task! Appreciate your sharing. Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
Prettymomma Member
Thank you Holly for sharing your video. It is very hard to live within the confines of migraine. There are the constant tugs of things that could be potential triggers when you leave your house . For instance, I live in the Midwest and it has been exceptionally hot and humid here this summer and to top it off our only car with air conditioning is now undriveable. So if we need to go out in the car we try to do it in the morning and we also take along some ice packs and cold drinks. With that said, it also gets very cold here too, definitely a lot of days with negative degree temps and that will get me too. But then you throw in the sun, noise, blinking lights, sugary foods, too much stimulation, etc... These are all things that will affect me, and there are more... But you can't really stay in your house 24/7 and there others that want to go places and do things too, and I am terrible at saying no because I want to make everyone happy😀 But I can still get migraines while I am at home, and even in the ideal circumstances so you can only do the best you can do! Take Care Holly!😀
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Prettymomma" user-id="7002652"/> - Thank you so much for posting the ways that chronic migraine confines you. I so agree that we have to find a balance between living within the many limitations that migraine can place on us- and choosing from time to time to break free of those shackles to live a little more! Often those activities result in an attack, but sometimes it's worth it! I definitely choose to go see music shows from time to time (very rare these days)- with the knowledge it will result in an attack- but I have to embrace my passions once in a while. Similarly, as you said, sometimes we want to join our friends and loved ones. Saying no is hard but it's a skill we often have to build during our migraine life. And you're so right, we can get into an attack by doing absolutely nothing at home- so sometimes, what's the point of staying so still if we'll be hit either way. This morning I was driving to a nearby trail to walk my dog- the angle of the sun was hitting my car such that it was like watching a strobe light going off in my face. It was unavoidable (even with a hat and sunglasses on and my visor pulled down). By the time I got to the trail, I was nauseated and couldn't stay. Disappointing. With you in this journey! Please stay in touch and keep sharing your insights. Love them. Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
CommunityMember520f8a Member
I live with migraine 
1. Rebecca C Moderator
 I am sorry to hear you toil with migraines, <inline-mention username="CommunityMember520f8a" user-id="6683946"/> I hope you are managing this chronic illness to some extent and that you are navigating life smoothly. Can you go into more detail about your migraines, chronic or episodic? Any auras? What are your signs, symptoms, and course of treatments available to you? Wishing you health and wellness - Rebecca (community moderator)
kelscho Member
Weather is my enemy! Whether (pun intended) it be humidity, wind, snow, rain, etc etc! It all messes with me. Basically barometer changes. Then the flickering of computer screens and I work on them all day, bright lights, bright sun etc. Then the big one STRESS!! Of course we all have it and my job is stressful and my health conditions are stressful so very hard to reduce it! Perhaps bubble wrap in a dark room but I refuse to stop living! 40 years of migraine and chronic migraine. Nothing really helps but I won’t ever stop trying!!
1. Rebecca C Moderator
 <inline-mention username="kelscho" user-id="3787360"/> - these three triggers - weather, stress, and computer work - can be awful for individuals with migraine disease. Your determination is admirable. Never stop fighting to move forward. We support you. Here's a link to an article that may interest you. <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/weather-trigger' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/weather-trigger</a> Wishing you better days ahead. Rebecca (community moderator)
Mare2 Member
Thanks for the topic Holly, I wait & look forward to your posts so much! Living in the confinements of my home has become ‘my normal’ over the years. I can’t go out in the sun or the wind. All the beautiful hot days leaves me inside or looking for shade amongst the trees. The beaming hot sun is like an allergic reaction, lol. The winters here in Canada are long and if I walk into a store that smells like strong plastics and rubber, those smells work their way directly to my temples and head. Perfumes and soaps which are more prominent during the holiday season for gift giving are a disaster for me. So it’s no wonder why I feel safe in the confinement of my home. However life doesn’t always allow us to stay at home and at times I feel the pressure to be out at light-hearted social events with friends like playing board games, pot luck meals, helping out at family visits and sharing Thanks for listening Marilyn. 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="Mare2" user-id="3924864"/> - Thank you for your kind words- it's so good to hear from you. I relate to all that you have shared here. The pressure to attend those light-hearted events can feel so hard when we are not feeling light-hearted at all. Living with chronic pain opens a portal for us- one that brings forth the desire to examine the world on a level in which we are seeking deeper meaning in our existence. I'm grateful for this part of the journey but it does make it more difficult to relate to others in a light way. The environment in which we live is akin to being in a padded room, at times. We must create a place that is safe from the bright lights and loud noises and smells that the world so often releases. Even though it feels like it, we must remember we are not alone in that space. Always so good and important to remember there are many people navigating the same terrain. Glad to be in this with you. Please stay in touch! Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
jaianna Member
 My life has gotten so small after 40 years of chronic migraine. I went out on SS disability at 45, now 65. A few years and a divorce later I had to give up the primary custody of my 2 children. I had pushed hard for it and it broke my heart to give it up but I just couldn’t manage when I was so sick every day. Of course I gave up things like movies and concerts early. I didn’t have TV service, I had videos for my kids but no shows. Eventually I gave up driving because I couldn’t trust my visual spacial judgement. Then COVID hit and we started having everything delivered. Now I don’t even go grocery shopping. My new husband will do the driving but I’m not independent. Another big loss. <inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="jaianna" user-id="3763026"/> - So grateful you chimed in to share some of your migraine journey with us. I really get the feeling of life seeming small. In fact, I wrote a piece on this reality: <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/pushing-through-limitations' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/pushing-through-limitations</a>. Perhaps it will resonate with you. I'm so sorry you had to give up custody of your children. I can only imagine the heart wrenching reality of that. We have so many people who share how migraine has impacted their ability to parent as they wish they could. I've been on disability for 14 years (started at 3😎 and was also divorced. Giving up custody and driving is deeply painful- although it makes us feel we have lost our independence, it can also be illustrative of choosing the responsible route given the extreme limitations the migraine can place on us. I also connect with the way COVID cut us off even further from the world. I think a lot of people feel this way- that we have yet to resume a sense of normalcy and connectedness to others. You are not alone in the choices you've made nor the feelings you are experiencing as a result of chronic migraine. We are with you in this and so glad you are here with us. Please keep your well-earned wisdom coming. Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
VivK Member
 That rings so many bells. One of my triggers is ‘strong emotion’. This is really disruptive because it spoils life’s special events. If I get excited before a holiday for example, or emotional at a wedding, or upset at a sad situation…..
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="VivK" user-id="8655300"/> - Thank you so much for sharing about how strong emotions can trigger migraine attacks. This is a trigger that many report- you are not alone in this. And while many people talk about how sadness and crying can trigger an attack, you're right to point out how any extremes can cause a migraine whether they be joy, anxiety or sadness. Thank you for sharing about this. This piece may resonate with you: <a href='https://migraine.com/video/attack-triggered-by-big-emotions' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/video/attack-triggered-by-big-emotions</a>. So glad you're with us- hope you'll stay in touch. Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
CommunityMembere6534f Member
 One of my warnings that a migraine is about to happen is when I start making typing mistakes. I know to quit. 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMembere6534f" user-id="3705086"/> Ah! Yes- indeed! I think this comes from the challenge of aphasia (difficulty coming up with the right words)- or clumsiness or a combination of both! <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/aphasia-brain-fog' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/aphasia-brain-fog</a> and <a href='https://migraine.com/blog/clumsiness' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/blog/clumsiness</a>. You are not alone in this experience! We so glad you're with us. Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
Karen Luttermoser Member
I too am a long-time migraneur, living within the confines of chronic migraine. I don't feel regimented, per se, but the limitations are certainly on my mind on a daily basis. My triggers include stress, weather/season changes, humidity (!!), fluorescent lighting, loud noises- especially talking, big loud crowds, strong odors, the list goes on and on... 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="deleted-8656818" user-id="8656818"/> You are so right- the barometric pressure changes and swings in weather seem to be happening everywhere. In addition, we each have such different triggers- some people are triggered by rain, others by dry heat! We had a contributor who moved from rainy seattle to arizona to beat the rain and found she only had different triggers in her new location. What do you to do treat or prevent weather-related attacks? This resource may prove of interest to you on the topic: <a href='https://migraine.com/living-migraine/unavoidable-weather-trigger' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/living-migraine/unavoidable-weather-trigger</a>. Warmly, Holly (migraine.com team).
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="deleted-8656818" user-id="8656818"/> Oh- glad to hear you've found a way to tweak the timing of your meds for better responsiveness. And yes- a wild year of severe weather! Glad you're with us- hope you'll stay in touch. Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team
Sandy Ford Member
Did you mean grams or milligrams?
Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="Sandy Ford" user-id="4379616"/> - I'm sorry I can't figure out to what you are referring. Can you clarify your question? Thanks! Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team.
jenn12 Member
<inline-mention username="Holly Harding" user-id="3755969"/> and community - thank you for sharing. I feel like the only thing I can say right now is- SAME! I started typing more - who am I kidding, I am not a one word person- but then got so sad. So I will leave it at Same with a Broken Heart. A question I have been asking everyone recently that I pose to all of you is - How do I make my life less miserable? Meditation, music, TV, special tea that brings comfort, recognizing the good moments ...and where would I be without my fur baby cat. And there is still so much suffering and misery. Thank you.
Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="jenn12" user-id="3768964"/> - so grateful you chimed in and are here with us. And yes- thank goodness for fur babies!!! I worry how tied I am to my doodle at times. You post a WONDERFUL question and a healthy way to think our way out of the hardships migraine places on us. I wrote an article (no longer on our site) re: a call for creature comforts - posing this same question. That was years ago, though, and I think it's worth asking for a fresh round of insights on this. Would you be willing to post this question on our forums page to get a conversation started around it? <a href='https://migraine.com/forums' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/forums</a>. Would be grateful if you are willing to do so. It's a great idea. Let me know if you choose to post if you have any questions about the forums process. And, I totally understand how sometimes digging in deep to the hard stuff only makes it worse. We have to strike a balance between venting and tunnel gazing. Please know you are not alone in this journey. We are so grateful you are with us. Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team 
1. jenn12 Member
 Thank you, Holly. I will post it in the forum.
2. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="jenn12" user-id="3768964"/> Thank you so much. I'm reading it now. I'm adding a link here for those who may like to follow along or contribute: <a href='https://migraine.com/forums/how-do-i-make-my-life-less-miserable-existing-with-chronic-migraine' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/forums/how-do-i-make-my-life-less-miserable-existing-with-chronic-migraine</a>. All love to you, my dear. - Holly (migraine.com team).
tempest Member
My migraines are part of my lupus. They were the first recognized symptom which led to my lupus diagnosis. So, if I can keep my lupus under control, my migraines do better. The triggers seem to be the same anyhow. Sunlight,, computer glare, fluorescent light, change in barometric pressure- storms, stress, not enough sleep, summertime heat. My first migraine was unrelenting for about a year, and lead to my disability and diagnosis. I now have 3 auto immune conditions. Se la vie.
1. Cody Leach Community Admin
 I'm so sorry to hear that you're struggling with both lupus and migraine. Those two conditions have a complex relationship, and I think you're on the right track with thinking that if you control your lupus, your migraines also improve. If you haven't checked it out already, you might resonate with our sister website, <a href='http://lupus.net' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>lupus.net</a>. It's a community just like this one, but is focused on lupus. I actually was part of that community for a few years, and all the people there are wonderful. Here is a link if you're interested: <a href='https://lupus.net/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>https://lupus.net/</a>. Wishing you well, and thanks for sharing your wisdom. I value your experience that you've shared. - Cody (Team Member)
CommunityMember135dfb Member
My biggest trigger is heat. I live in FL so most of the year it's hot. Also if I try to put to many things on My schedule. Talking to alot of people at a gathering. Bright lights and noise. To little or to much sleep. Certain medications,if I'm depressed. Some times reading or watching TV for more than a few hours. Sometimes I have no clue when one will hit, I call it a flash migrain. Crying to long. It is walking a very thin line. 
1. Holly Harding Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember135dfb" user-id="3895914"/> - So grateful you shared some of your trigger list with us. What you offer is unfortunately very common for so many of us living with migraine. Social engagement, extreme heat, changes in sleep patterns, crying, and on. It indeed does feel like walking a thin line to maneuver around all of the triggers that can accompany migraine. You are not alone in any of this and we're grateful you are here sharing your experience. Please keep your insights and experiences coming- we are glad to learn from you. Warmly- Holly <a href='http://-migraine.com' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>-migraine.com</a> team. 
2. Rebecca C Moderator
 These triggers, <inline-mention username="CommunityMember135dfb" user-id="3895914"/>, all seem so very familiar. It is so hard to live life when your surroundings are uncontrollable, chaotic, disruptive, intense, and most of all unmanageable. Walking this thin line is formidable. Thanks for sharing this with us. We hope you have found some ways to keep your spirits up and have found restorative/beneficial ways to manage daily life in the migraine disease domain. Thinking of you - Rebecca (community moderator)
CommunityMember106139 Member
It still amazes me how many triggers we all share! I, too, get auras, drooping eyes (one <inline-mention username="Alene L. Brennan, RYT" user-id="3663804"/> a time), watery eyes & many more. However, I get strange smells, usually it resembles burning wires or wood. I know this is common but I don't see it mentioned often. In one instance I woke around midnight & woke up my family, convinced our house was on fire; even called 911 because I also had a recurring symptom of seeing light smoke. It must fall under the aura symptom? I called 911 back (small town) but they still had to "follow through" & check the house. Are olfactory hallucinations more or less common with migraneurs?
Cody Leach Community Admin
Hi there, <inline-mention username="CommunityMember106139" user-id="4381178"/> - You raise a great question. As far as I'm aware, olfactory hallucinations are quite rare. Some estimate only about 0.01 percent of people living with migraine get them. However, it still does come out to a lot of people, given that about 1 billion people worldwide are diagnosed with migraine. Another factor involved with it is that many people may not know they are experiencing them. We've had some forum topics about hallucinations in the past, but they don't seem to have gone in much depth. See this forum for example: <a href='https://migraine.com/forums/does-anyone-get-olfactory-hallucinations' target='_blank'>https://migraine.com/forums/does-anyone-get-olfactory-hallucinations</a>. If you feel comfortable, I encourage you to post your experience with them there. I can imagine it would be helpful for others, and they can learn from your valuable experience. Best, - Cody (Team Member)