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!

Enroll in acting classes. I did that at age 14 and have won many awards for Best Imitation of Feeling Pain-free by a chronic Migraineur.

It’s no secret having daily migraine for over 20 years can be exhausting, frustrating and depressing. One thing I do, and made my sons who inherited the disease do, is find something positive each day. It doesn’t have to be profound…some days it may be “I didn’t vomit today”, other days it’s “I showered” and others “I was able to enjoy friends or family”. I make the most out of manageable days and remind myself my migraine brain is telling me lies about my self worth during high level stretches. Music is my escape and makes me smile. I’m still working on learning to ask for help. I’m lucky my friends actually thank me when I do bc they can feel helpless bc they can’t take away the pain. Talking to friends who have chronic illness makes me feel less alone, making sure I hydrate, avoiding my food triggers, wear migraine glasses when needed, avoiding fluorescent lights when possible, ordering things for pickup instead of being in a loud bright store, allowing myself occasional 15 minute pity parties, having realistic expectations and not overdoing things on manageable days, and researching what is on the horizon are practical things I do.