Coping with Migraines

One Person Tells Her Story about Dealing with Migraines

I interviewed one of my patients with migraines and asked her about what she thought was important to share with others who may be suffering similarly. We talked for quite a while about how migraines have impacted her life and what she has done to cope. Having opportunities to share with others can be an important part of learning to deal with a frustrating, but manageable condition. I didn’t include every aspect of our interview, but I have chosen some of what I thought were interesting topics of discussion.

What is the worst part about having migraines?

The worst part for me is not being able to function at my normal level. I am a person who is on the go constantly. Between working, maintaining a busy household, and taking time to enjoy my grandchildren, I have a lot I’d like to be doing every day. Having to stop and lie down for even a few minutes can really interrupt my flow during a day.

So, what do you do to maintain your sanity?

It’s taken a long time, but I have finally come to accept the fact that migraines hit me from time to time. I don’t particularly like that fact, but what can you do? My therapist has helped me with the acceptance stuff. I’ve also come to realize that stopping once in a while is a good thing for me. I need the reminder to slow down; I just wish there was a better way to be reminded!

What else have you found that helps, besides “slowing down”?

Off and on I’ve used the traditional migraine medicines like Imitrex (one of the triptan medications), and those seem to help when I just can’t get a headache to break. For me, though, learning to prevent migraines has been more useful than just treating them. I cut out some things in my diet that always gave me a hard time. I’ve also started exercising more. And I don’t forget going to my acupuncturist now and then!

What advice do you have for other migraine sufferers?

My biggest piece of advice is a bit of a cliché, but never give up. I really feel like there is a way for every individual to treat their migraines. It’s just a matter of figuring out what the best way is. From experience I do know that continuing to find a way to include my usual activities rather than limit them has been a huge blessing for me, as hard as it is sometimes.

Thank you to my patient for sharing some experiences with you. As I mentioned above, it is always helpful to learn what others are going through and how they are coping so you can learn to better address your specific concerns when it comes to migraines.

As always, be sure to discuss your specific symptoms with your healthcare provider so that you can find the best way to deal with your migraines.

_Source:

_{Patient conducted in person. June 15, 2009.}