It’s Migraine and Headache Awareness Month! How do you stay positive despite the challenges?
I have had migraines since I can remember, I was told after menopause they might go away. Well, not for me. So I have daily headaches but get migraines randomly. So I find on the days I wake up feeling good I do as much as I can. On the other I’ve decided that it’s a down day unless my meds can help. My family and friends are so helpful and kind about my health that it makes it easier to handle. If you have a positive attitude and keep reminding yourself that it’s not the end of the world, you will find peace on the days you need it. Meds can only do so much. Migraines are not understood as well as other ailments, so you have understand how you get them and what to expect from them. Everyone deals with them differently and people get very different symptoms from migraines. So work with your body. Find the foods that aggravate it and find a doctor who is supportive and helpful. If there is lightning issues change them, if sound is an issue change it. Take time to find what works for you. That’s all we can do. ❤️
I do basic nutrition & lifestyle stuff like: drink plenty of water; take a quality multiple vitamin; supplement with magnesium & fish oil; avoid sugars & processed foods; avoid my known triggers; have good sleep hygiene so I get plenty of rest; try to avoid stress; exercise each day (which I'm not doing because I'm wallowing in depression- don't do that if possible) ; take medications in moderation when possible to avoid tolerance; look for and try any new treatment options; and treat a migraine immediately versus waiting- out a moderate headache in case it's just transient. For people who use ice, I'm currently in love with a stretchy ice pack made for head pain. It's two flat pieces of rubbery ice gel encased it a lycra shell that just pulls over your head like a hat or bandana. I have small round ice packs I can put on a specific spot if I need that, and the "hat" holds everything in place.
If you are having shoulder or neck pain that pushes more pain into your head please ask the neurologist you are seeing for a recommendation for a special chiropractor who specializes in migraines. I started out a few years ago with a "regular" chiropractor and now have a new chiropractor specializing in migraines. What a difference! He does NOTHING like the former chiropractor. He is working on my shoulder and neck issues in a totally different way and suggests type of pillow, sources of heat products to use, exercises.... WHAT A DIFFERENCE!
Don't wait until your pain from your migraine is out of control before you take meds. Also if you are waken from your sleep due to a migraine don't just try and go back to sleep. Wake up and take your treatment meds so when you go back to sleep and wake up again hopefully the migraine is gone.
I have had migraines for over 30 years. What I have found that has helped me are eating more fish and fresh vegetables, cutting back sugar, yoga with neck stretches, mediation, exercise, CoQ10, B2, Magnesium and cutting back on activities so I have more time to rest.