As someone who’s lived with migraines for years, I’ve had my fair share of frustration with people assuming I’m faking it just to get attention or skip responsibilities. But the truth is, migraineurs are actually masters of faking wellness. Why would we want attention for a condition that can make us seem weak and vulnerable? No way! We’re tired of talking about something so painful and debilitating. It’s easier to just pretend everything is okay and avoid the whole conversation. So when someone asks how we’re doing, we’ll often just say, “I’m fine” – even if our heads are pounding…

Migraine warriors, we’re about to dive into one of the most annoying (but not insurmountable) symptoms of this pesky condition: light sensitivity. You know it as photophobia – a fear of light that can be debilitating and make everyday life a challenge. Let’s face it: for 85-90% of people living with migraine, exposure to light is like throwing gasoline on the fire (or in this case, pain). It’s not just about being sensitive to bright lights; it’s about experiencing physical or emotional discomfort that can be overwhelming. So, what’s behind this mysterious phenomenon? Researchers believe that certain parts of the…

Headaches are one of the most common complaints that bring people to their doctor’s office. They can range from mild annoyances to debilitating events that make it impossible to function normally. Whether they’re felt in the front of the head, around the eyes, or across the back of the head and neck, headaches can be a real nuisance. But what exactly causes these pesky pains? Are they just a minor health concern or could they be indicative of something more serious? There are two main types of headaches: primary and secondary. Primary headaches aren’t caused by any underlying medical condition,…

Hey there! If you’re reading this, chances are you know what it’s like to have a migraine ruin your day (or week, or month). But I’m here to tell you that even with those pesky headaches, life is still worth living. My name is Sawyer Matheny, and I’m a 22-year-old theatre enthusiast who’s learned to navigate the ups and downs of living with migraines. Growing up, I was always the kid who had to be doing something creative – whether it was acting, writing, or directing. My passion for performance has been my constant companion, even through the tough times.…

If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from migraines, you may have heard that there are different types of these pesky headaches. One type is called migraine without aura, and it’s more common than you might think. So, what exactly is a migraine without aura? Simply put, it’s when you experience a headache without any visual or sensory disturbances (like flashing lights or zigzag patterns) before the pain sets in. In fact, about 75% of people who get migraines have this type, with women being more likely to be affected than men. The good news is that…

As anyone who’s ever suffered from migraines knows, staying hydrated is crucial for managing these pesky headaches. But did you know that dehydration can actually trigger migraines in some people? And conversely, having a migraine can lead to dehydration as well? It’s no wonder then that drinking plenty of water and other hydrating fluids becomes an essential part of living with migraines. The good news is that there are many ways beyond just plain water to keep your body hydrated and happy. First, let’s talk about the not-so-great options: drinks like those containing caffeine or alcohol can actually dehydrate you…

As someone living with hemiplegic migraine, I’ve faced my fair share of skepticism and disbelief from others. It’s frustrating to be met with accusations that I’m faking or exaggerating my symptoms just to get out of work or other responsibilities. But let me tell you, the reality of a migraine attack is far from trivial. The statistics are sobering: hemiplegic migraine is the 8th leading cause of disability in the world. And yet, it’s often viewed as “just a headache” – a notion that dismisses the severity and impact of this condition on daily life. Let me paint a picture…

Are you one of the millions of people affected by migraines? If so, you’re not alone. In fact, if you have family members who experience these debilitating headaches, your chances of getting them too skyrocket. Research suggests that having a family history of migraine is a significant predictor of developing the condition yourself. And it’s not just a matter of inheriting a single gene – multiple genes are likely at play here. This means that both environmental and genetic factors contribute to your risk of getting migraines. A study published in 1996 found that an astonishing 91% of people with…

I never thought I’d be grateful for a migraine, but after moving to Long Island during a global pandemic, it’s become my unwelcome alarm clock. The constant stream of minor and major anxieties has taken its toll on my body and mind. I’ve learned to navigate the frustrations that come with uncertainty, from audition prep to navigating public transportation. But even with careful planning and self-care, migraines can still sneak up on me. My latest episode was a doozy – it started when I stood up too quickly while doing laundry, and suddenly my vision went fuzzy. I knew exactly…

As a migraine warrior, you know that finding the right doctor can make all the difference. A dysfunctional relationship with your healthcare provider can leave you feeling unheard, powerless, and frustrated – on top of dealing with the chronic pain of migraines. So, how do you ensure you’re getting the care you need from a medical professional who truly gets it? In this article, we’ll explore some key factors to consider when evaluating your relationship with a doctor, and offer practical tips for finding a healthcare partner that’s right for you. The Waiting Game: A Good Sign of Things to…