Living with chronic migraine is a complex and often misunderstood journey. For many, including Cory Hurst, a 34-year-old educator and father living in Madrid, Spain, migraine is more than just a severe headache. Migraine attacks are debilitating episodes that affect every facet of life.

People with chronic migraine, like Cory, get these attacks frequently — and sometimes daily. Here are six insights from Cory's story that shed light on this condition and the challenges it brings.

1. Migraine Pain May Strike Fast and Feel Overwhelming

For Cory, the onset of a migraine attack is sudden and intense. “I do not feel the migraine coming,” he explained, “but instead, I feel it start, and it quickly goes from a small amount of pain to unbearable.” The pain is usually concentrated on the front right side of his head. It’s accompanied by throbbing sensations; increased sensitivity to light, sound, and smell; and often nausea if untreated.

2. Triggers Can Be Varied and Difficult To Pinpoint

Identifying triggers is a vital part of managing migraine, but it can be a long and ongoing process. Cory has pinpointed several culprits, including certain foods and drinks — such as processed foods, refined sugar, and chocolate — along with poor sleep, fatigue, disruptions in routine, excessive screen time, and weather changes. Weather factors like shifts in barometric pressure, extreme heat and cold, and high humidity are triggers for many people with migraine.

Cory’s awareness of his triggers is essential, but he admitted, “I’m still working on trying to uncover them all.”

3. Chronic Migraine Disrupts Daily Life

For those living with chronic migraine, the impact extends beyond physical pain. Cory experiences migraine attacks two to three times a week on average, with some periods bringing daily attacks. These episodes disrupt his ability to work, enjoy family time, and pursue his doctoral studies.

“The hardest is when I have opportunities to spend quality time with family, and I just can't,” Cory shared. The emotional toll is clear. “I don’t want my son to feel as though I’m not present.”

4. Treatment Often Involves Trial and Error

Cory’s treatment journey has involved trial and error with numerous medications. He finally found some relief with a medication that he takes during an attack. “This is usually effective within a few hours,” he said, “though some migraines require another dose later in the day.”

In addition to medication, Cory uses strategies such as applying ice to the back of his neck, smelling peppermint oil, and resting in a dark room.

5. Understanding and Support Make a Difference

The role of family and friends in navigating chronic migraine cannot be overstated. Cory is grateful for the support he receives from his wife, who not only understands his pain but actively helps him explore new treatments. “I am so thankful,” he said, recognizing how isolating the condition could otherwise be.

6. It’s Important To Make the Most of Migraine-Free Days

Despite the challenges, Cory is determined to make the most of his migraine-free days. “Living with migraine is tough but not impossible,” he emphasized.

Living abroad for over 11 years, Cory draws joy from spending time outdoors with his family, photography, and travel. These pursuits remind him — and others — that life with migraine, though it may be difficult, is still rich with possibilities.

Chronic migraine remains an underdiagnosed and misunderstood condition, despite its prevalence. By sharing their stories, individuals like Cory bring greater awareness to the experiences of millions living with this condition.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyMigraineTeam is the social network for people with migraine and their loved ones. On MyMigraineTeam, more than 84,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with migraine.

Do any of Cory’s experiences reflect your own story? What insights do you have about living with migraine? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.