Migraines: Symptoms and Tips

As someone who suffers from migraines, it has taken some time to find a way to deal with them. Migraines can be different for many people: there are many types, symptoms, and treatments depending on the individual. Today, I will share some of my story and treatment! Let us know in the comments if you, too, struggle with migraines. We would love to hear your individual stories.

I typically get migraine headaches on the left side of my head. Migraines are interesting in the way that they can have localized pain – instead of feeling pain in my whole head, I only feel it on one side. This can be very different for other people: some may experience pain on the right side of their head, or even behind their eye (sinus infection). 

In terms of symptoms, I usually experience light-headedness, light/noise sensitivity, nausea, aura (temporary localized vision loss/light specks in vision), and headache. These are fairly typical symptoms for those who have regular migraines. Some other symptoms may include:

• Difficulty in speech

• Nasal congestion

• Scalp tenderness

• Malaise

• Pain in the face/neck

Some people experience many of these symptoms, and some very few. Again, it is all dependent on the individual person.

Frequency of migraines can be dependent on person/treatment too. Originally, I would get about one migraine per week, which unfortunately meant that I missed a lot of school. However, upon being treated and learning the proper medication that worked for my specific headaches, the frequency decreased heavily. Now I only experience one migraine every one to two months! Learning the correct treatment can be very impactful in the frequency of migraines.

When seeking treatment, try to make an appointment with a neurologist. Because of the individualized nature of migraines, certain medications may or may not work for one person compared to another. Further, meeting with a doctor can help you create a plan that is tailored to you. Here are some general tips for dealing with migraines that have helped me:

• Sleep it off!

• Usually, I try to sleep off my migraines. By the time I wake up they tend to go away! This can be a good solution for short-lasting headaches.

• Reduce bright lights/sounds

• Many people tend to be sensitive to bright lights/sounds. Removing them from your environment can reduce pain.

• Drink water

• Apply a cooling pack to the area in pain