This week, The Migraine Trust and The Neurological Alliance launched Improving headache and migraine care together: A tool for NHS professionals & providers. The new tool is designed to help NHS commissioners, providers and professionals to plan, design and improve local services for people of all ages affected by headache and migraine. It identifies and signposts to the best available resources and provides a framework for local service transformation. Developed by The Migraine Trust and the Neurological Alliance with support from people living with migraine, health professionals, service managers at Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and NHS provider representatives from across England, the tool is focused on care pathways that can be delivered in the community with key stakeholders, partners and services. Rob Music, Chief Executive of The Migraine Trust, said: “We know that many people with migraine find it challenging to access the care they need or deserve. At the same time, we recognise it can be challenging as a commissioner, provider or healthcare professional looking to improve services to know where to start. The launch of this tool marks an important step in moving toward consistent, high-quality care for people living with migraine.” Georgina Carr, Chief Executive of Neurological Alliance, said: “This tool offers a blueprint for best practice headache and migraine care in local settings and supports the NHS 10 Year Plan’s ambition to move care from hospitals to communities. We hope it will empower local healthcare leaders to improve headache and migraine services, which will not only improve patient outcomes but also reduce pressure on secondary care services.” Improving headache and migraine care together: A tool for NHS professionals & providers is endorsed by the British Association for the Study of Headache (BASH), Association of British Neurologists (ABN) and British Paediatric Neurology Association (BPNA). Alex Sinclair, Chair of BASH, said: “BASH welcomes this practical, evidence-informed tool, which brings together the key resources needed to improve headache and migraine care across the NHS. By supporting joined-up pathways, strengthening primary and community management, and enabling timely access to specialist expertise, it represents an important step towards more consistent, high-quality care for people affected by headache disorders.” Dr Rachael Kilner, Clinical Advisor on the project, GP with extended role headache King’s College Hospital, St Thomas’ Hospital and Bromley GP Alliance community headache clinic, said: “Headache disorders represent one of the largest opportunities to improve neurological care across the NHS. Too many people are still experiencing avoidable delays, unnecessary referrals and fragmented pathways. This tool brings together the evidence, clinical guidance and practical resources needed to support more consistent, joined-up care across primary, community and specialist services.” Dr Kay Kennis, Clinical Advisor on the project, GP with extended role in headache, Bradford Community Neurology Service, said: “For many people living with migraine, the difference between good and poor care comes down to whether they can access the right support at the right time. Strengthening headache care in the community has the potential to improve outcomes for patients while reducing avoidable demand on hospitals. This tool supports services to make those changes using evidence-based approaches.” The Migraine Trust is committed to improving care, support and awareness for people with migraine. You can stay up to date with our work here and by signing up to our ebulletin. Financial support for this project has been provided as a Quality Improvement Grant from Pfizer International LLC.  Editorial control rests with The Migraine Trust and the Neurological Alliance.  Source link

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According to the latest NICE guidance, atogepant can be prescribed as an option for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults only if, for previous migraine attacks, at least two triptans were tried and they did not work well enough or were not tolerated and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol were tried but did not work well enough.  Whether atogepant can be prescribed for the acute treatment of migraine in both primary and secondary care settings will be subject to local commissioning through Integrated Care Boards. This means that GPs may be able to prescribe atogepant as an acute treatment or they may need to refer to a specialist for a patient to gain access, depending on where they are based.  While the availability of atogepant for acute treatment is a positive step forward in improving migraine care, we are also aware of the difficulties that people experience in accessing these much-needed medications. Research for The Migraine Trust’s 2023 report, Heading in the Wrong Direction, found that among people who reported themselves to have met the eligibility criteria for CGRP mAbs, only 52% had been offered access to this treatment. Those unable to access it reported being told that their GP, neurologist or the local NHS does not prescribe it, that there was a lack of funds available to prescribe it, or that waiting lists are too long so clinicians were opting not to prescribe.   Alice, who lives with chronic migraine, welcomes today’s announcement. She also believes that access to medications such as atogepant at an earlier stage would make a considerable difference for people living with migraine.   Alice said:  “I lost years of my life waiting to be taken seriously by medical professionals and waiting to access migraine-specific treatments.  If a wider range of migraine-specific treatments, such as atogepant, were available earlier in the patient journey, I believe many people could reach effective treatment sooner, avoid years of unnecessary suffering, reduce their exposure to ineffective medications and side effects, and maintain a better quality of life. “ Similarly, Lisa, who has struggled to access migraine treatment, is clear that access to migraine-specific medications as acute treatment options is a step forward:  “You must try so many different treatments and face the side effects, then at times the waiting list for neurology has been nine months long. I do understand you can’t give out treatments to everyone straight away, but it’s a lot to deal with.”  Source link

Migraine and Headache Awareness Month (MHAM) starts in June. Every year, I participate in migraine and headache awareness month, week, and day. I have been honoring National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month since 2015, and you can follow it back through the years. MHAM aims to decrease stigma,  increase awareness, and make some virtual noise through advocacy during the month. Every year, I try to do a little bit more for migraine awareness and fundraising. It’s the little things that count, and in June, I try to talk about how it impacts my life a little bit more. Please follow and share my information during this time with your audience. You never know who is living with migraine or a headache disorder in silence and who you could be helping. Follow on: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/ X Participate in Migraine and Headache Awareness Month MHAM There are many ways to participate in Migraine and Headache Disorders Awareness Month. MHAM can be seen in person, online, and everywhere in between. By sharing content, information, and stories, Migraine Awareness Month can make a difference in the migraine and headache disorders communities. Please participate how you can. Miles for Migraine Donate to Miles for Migraine To start the month out, I’d like to ask for your donation and participation with an organization that you’ve heard me talk about…..Miles for Migraine. Miles for Migraine is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with migraine and headache disease by funding fellowship programs to alleviate the doctor shortage, while creating a free supportive community for patients and their families through patient – participatory programs and events. On July 12, I will be walking and speaking at the annual Cleveland Miles for Migraine walk/run/relax. This event raises funds for the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals’ neurology, and the Miles for Migraine organization. This money allows events to be free and supports headache fellowships in these clinical programs. If you are local and want to participate but are unable to walk/run, we’d love for you to come anyway!  +Join my team and come to meet all the wonderful advocates and migraine supporters.  There will be a quiet tent to rest in, and you are not obligated to walk.  Your donation and presence are much appreciated!  We are all doing what we can do, and any effort is spoons well spent. Ask a Friend, Co-worker, or Loved One to Help Raise money If you want to donate but don’t have the funds.  I totally get it.  Between the price of medications and therapies and difficulty with keeping a job, it can be even harder to donate.  Remember that $10 makes a difference.  Each dollar goes a long way, and any donation takes us a step closer to helping many! If none of these are an option, please share this post.  Sharing is caring, and if you can’t support, maybe a friend can.  It’s all about not being alone and spreading a message.  Everyone can share! Teaching your audience/social media followers how strong you are to be fighting migraine for yourself or for others will go really far. Past walk/run/relax experiences Wear Purple The national migraine awareness color is purple. By wearing purple, I feel like I’m honoring the topic just a bit more. I like to wear my Miles for Migraine T-shirts because they are purple and a conversation starter. By wearing the swag that I’ve earned from fundraising or through participating in the walk/run/relax events, I always have people ask me about it. I’ve had a lot of nice conversations about migraine when wearing the shirt and being approached. While purple is the official migraine and headache awareness color. Chronic Migraine Awareness CMA has also initiated purple and red ribbons to represent chronic migraine awareness. They encourage you to “turn your porch light purple” by lighting up your house or building to show support. #shinealight If you are looking to buy migraine swag, I recommend Achy Smile. Use code: MYMIGRAINE for 15% off. Erica is a long-time migraine advocate whom I met at Retreat Migraine and always look forward to advocating with. You can check out some of the products I’ve gotten from her. Wear purple sunglasses for a good cause. Shades for Migraine Sunglasses and their campaign on June 21st is always a fun way to raise awareness. Follow and Share Content Every day, I’ll be posting and sharing information and migraine facts. Pass it along! Posting more about migraine and headache disorders will teach your audience a bit more and allow them to relate. You never know how many people and families are affected by migraine, and sharing is caring. Facebook recommendation. Like and invite friends to like My Migraine Life on Facebook. Simply go to my page and click “Invite a friend.” It’s a simple way to introduce your friends and yourself to a migraine advocacy page to get information year-round. Tag friends and family with migraine. The friends you have will know you are supporting them. If you do, you will find more friends who suffer in silence once you talk about it. Follow My Migraine Life: Migraine and Headache Awareness Month Hashtags #MHAM Migraine and Headache Awareness Month #clusterheadaches Cluster Headaches #migraine Migraine #headache Headache #chronicmigraine Chronic Migraine #hemiplegicmigraine Hemiplegic Migraine Sign Up for an Event There are many events on social media and in person throughout the year. I encourage you to sign up for a free education event, an in-person walk/run/relax or event or support group. This knowledge and support can help you connect and learn about migraine and headache disorders. Help Secure Official Proclamations from Local Governments Official proclamations from local governments help to acknowledge the impact of headache and migraine in our communities and demonstrate governmental support for those affected. Every proclamation obtained solidifies the importance of awareness and education surrounding headaches and migraine. It also creates an official record that can be used to further advocacy efforts and build support within the community. Find out how Migraine and Headache Disorders Awareness Calendar

I work for the ACT Now fellows and advocacy training program for Miles for Migraine. I’d love to tell you more about it! ACT Now stands for advocacy connection team and connects volunteers in many ways. The fellows and advocacy training program are one. It is a program that trains doctors, patients, and caregivers to be advocates. As a migraine advocate, I like connecting with other people living with migraine and their support teams. But, I will admit that I haven’t made much connection with fellows or doctors regarding building awareness. I have learned so much personally and am in awe at how advocacy can be sparked into action. It feels good to be building up both patients and providers. A fellow is a physician who has completed their residency and elects to complete further training in a specialty: VeryWell Health ACT Now Fellows and Advocacy Training Program The Executive Director, Shirley Kessel, and Doctor Bill Young created the program. The program includes monthly virtual meetings that educate and discuss various topics on advocacy and the field of migraine and headache disorders. These meetings expose the group to stigma, policy & regulation, how advocacy should be a part of the treatment plan, and much more. I used the “How to tell your story” session to guide my Headache on the Hill speech and felt more confident with the training I received. I had the opportunity to be on a team with an ACT Now fellow for Headache on the Hill. Our shared experiences in the program led us to lobby Congress together and make a connection in the same city. Each advocacy training contains a knowledgeable speaker to educate and answer questions. Break-out sessions also provide intimate discussions about these topics from the patient/caregiver and doctor’s perspectives. By the end of the program, it is the hope that participants will do advocacy projects. We hope they continue to grow in their advocacy efforts with the knowledge and inspiration gained from the ACT Now program. REGISTER Miles for Migraine Fellows Did you know that each walk/run/relax event held across the United States gives back locally? When you fundraise and participate in an event, your donations go to a local participating headache center. 100% of the funds raised through events are donated to the fellowship training programs. In 2020 (the year of the pandemic), Miles for Migraine awarded $592,984.94 to those headache fellowship programs. With our country’s severe shortage of headache specialists, part of the mission is to provide the necessary funding to encourage doctors to enter the field. The money granted to the fellowship programs is used to help fund migraine and headache research initiatives, education, and salaries. This year, the participating centers are asked to nominate a fellow to join the advocacy training program to educate and inspire future doctor advocates. Personally, this is exciting for me. As someone living with migraine, I have seen my share of educated doctors and others who clearly don’t understand the disease. Fellows’ training in advocacy makes me excited for their patients’ future and careers. This program highlights the impact on life and exposes the stigma perceived. Headache specialists are few and far between, and Miles for Migraine supports fellows pursuing migraine and headache medicine. Without funding, Miles for Migraine cannot donate funds or continue programming, which is crucial to building migraine awareness throughout the U.S. If you are willing and able to donate, please consider donating to Sarah Rathsack-Team My Migraine Life. THANK YOU! Need for Advocacy Training Miles for Migraine believes that advocacy requires concerted efforts across many domains: Patient-to-patient, Patient-to-person without headache Provider-to-provider Provider and patient to the payor Legislator Educator Business etc… Because of this high need and low advocate numbers, the ACT Now fellow and advocacy program builds on these relationships. The advocacy connection team aims to educate patients with leadership potential in wide geographical distribution and the fellows from participating headache centers. Advocacy Training Program Throughout the program, there are monthly meetings and discussions on various topics in advocacy. The hope is to increase the number of providers and patient advocates. Advocates receive training about the current state of advocacy for headache medicine and patients and will develop creative strategies to identify and address gaps in the current advocacy movement. Through the sessions, participants are trained in speaking, writing, and political skills to effectively communicate their message while developing project-based outcomes. Advocates have the power of knowledge, communication, and resources to take on the role of migraine advocacy. REGISTER Migraine and Headache Disorder Advocates As someone who lives with Chronic Migraine and persistent daily headaches, it is tough for me to “keep my head above water.” I struggle to balance my family life, work life, and Migraine Life. Because of this, I struggle to commit to events and programs. Life has taught me that my migraine beast will arise at any moment, and my plans don’t fit its schedule. It’s hard to admit that I can’t make all commitments, and I either apologize a lot or hold myself back from opportunities. Roughly 39 million people in the United States and 1 billion worldwide have migraines. This makes Migraine the third most common illness in the world.1 No one understands this struggle like Miles for Migraine. Miles for Migraine employs those who live with migraine and headache disorders and those who have significantly seen the impact on the incredible people fighting it each day. To accommodate, the ACT Now advocacy training program is recorded for those who can not attend the virtual live events. Additionally, because it is virtual, you can participate alone at home in the dark, in bed, and with the accommodations that make you the most comfortable. ACT Now Registration Even as someone who works on the program, I have had sessions lying in bed under my green light and in my PJs. I found that on the days I wasn’t my best, I attended a session and was inspired. Knowing I’m fighting for my cause, and when I can’t, all these advocates are is good. There’s something so powerful about feeling

Recently, I have been investigating my health through functional medicine to ease My Migraine Life. My health and illness are a journey, but it’s a method I’ve learned from. My life is very different from yours, but if you are interested in functional medicine, here is my experience. First, why did I decide to go to a functional medicine doctor? If you’ve followed along, you may have read that I go to a headache specialist for my migraine treatment. Additionally, I have taken an integrative approach and approach my health in all diretions. But even with “trying everything” and all the therapies I was doing, I just never feel great.  So I decided to get to the root of the issue. Functional Medicine Functional medicine is an approach to healthcare that focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of illness, rather than just treating symptoms. When it comes to migraine, functional medicine takes into account various factors that can contribute to their occurrence, including genetics, environmental triggers, lifestyle choices, and underlying health conditions. I sought out functional medicine to identify the underlying cause of my not feeling well. The cause of migraine is unknown and it was more to delve deeper into my health overall. My doctor utilized my health history, symptoms, conditions, previous testing, genetic testing, and the latest diagnostics, to form the best picture of my current health status as possible. By shifting the traditional disease-centered focus of medical practice to a more patient-centered approach, functional medicine addresses the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms. Once the underlying factors of my not feeling well are identified, treatment may be more effective. Strategies Used in Functional Medicine for Managing Migraine Comprehensive Evaluation First, I gave blood and urine to test for an array of ‘things.’ My functional medicine practitioner evaluated my medical history, lifestyle, diet, and environmental exposures to identify potential triggers and underlying factors contributing to my migraine disease. Personalized Treatment Once all my tests came back, I received an individualized treatment plan. The plan is based on my specific needs and triggers. Dietary Modifications Certain foods can trigger migraine in susceptible individuals. For me, a functional medicine approach involves identifying and eliminating trigger foods that my body showed intolerant to. I don’t have any allergies, per se, but the tests showed that I was extremely intolerant to foods I thought were “healthy for me.” I was excited to have a test that show how my body reacted instead of listening to common migraine foods that may be a problem for many but not for me. And the same goes for foods that I thought were ‘migraine friendly’ but not for me. Having specific foods to avoid or add was helpful. Nutritional Support Supplementation with specific nutrients may be recommended to address deficiencies or imbalances that could contribute to migraine. For example, magnesium, riboflavin (vitamin B2), and coenzyme Q10 are commonly used supplements for migraine attack prevention. The nutrient analysis, I took, evaluated a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and other biomarkers to determine nutritional deficiencies and imbalances. My doctor was able to see what supplements I needed and what I was taking to get rid of them. Turns out, my vitamin brand had toxins in it that I was reacting to. My vitamins?! So I went on a cleaner brand and learned that all vitamins are not created equal. Gut Health Next, I took a urine analysis to help pinpoint the causes of gastrointestinal symptoms and chronic systemic conditions.  It measured key markers of digestion, absorption, and inflammation. This can also include bacteriology, yeast cultures, and can include infectious pathogens, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Let’s just say, I have some gut issues. The brain-gut connection has always been one of my biggest struggles and my tests showed all sorts of issues in my gut. I was told I have candida overgrowth and other issues I tried to understand. This was an explanation of why I crave sugar and carbs intensely! I always thought it was an addiction to sugar plus a migraine symptom but learned that on top of that, the candida thrives off these things and makes cravings intolerable. The gut contains more than 70% of the immune system and is often called the second brain. It is worth looking into and being cared for. Longstanding gut infections are also a possible culprit for head pain.  Harmful bacteria in the gastrointestinal system, whether in the stomach or small or large intestines, can produce toxic waste products that can travel to the head and nerves, triggering severe pain and brain fog symptoms.-Dr. Brian Lum Food Sensitivity My food sensitivity test wasn’t off the charts but was very telling.  You know that old saying, “Eat a handful of almonds and it’s like taking a Tylenol.” Well, not if you are severely intolerant to almonds! I had been thinking I was being healthy by eating plant-based and came to understand that I’m very intolerant to many plants. This was the reason I came to a functional medicine doctor for my migraine. I wanted to know exactly what was and wasn’t working for MY body. Not the general advice that is given to all. My body is unique and these tests helped me understand what I was lacking and what I needed to cut back on. Detoxification The next step was to lower my exposure to toxins. She discussed lowering EMFs (Electric and magnetic fields). I learned that EMFs are associated with the use of electrical power and various forms of natural and man-made lighting. Lighting, I address with green light and glasses, and use little light around the house. But what I hadn’t thought about was my technology. My doctor had me make switches in my home like keeping my phone and watch away from my nightstand when I sleep and getting a protective device for my wifi. She even mentioned sitting my computer on my lap while I work and how bad that

Could an Epsom salt bath help ease your migraine symptoms? Many people find that these relaxing soaks not only alleviate tension but also support overall well-being. While not a cure, Epsom salt baths can be a soothing addition to your self-care routine for managing migraine symptoms. In this post, I’ll share my personal experience with Epsom salt baths, my favorite simple recipe, and tips for creating a relaxing, migraine-friendly environment. Let’s dive into the potential benefits and how you can make Epsom salt baths part of your migraine relief plan. Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my blog—I hope you love these products as much as I do! What Are the Benefits of Epsom Salt Baths for Migraine Relief? Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) offers a variety of benefits that may help with migraine management. Here are some of the top reasons to incorporate Epsom salt baths into your self-care routine: Muscle Relaxation Magnesium in Epsom salt can be absorbed through your skin during a bath. Magnesium plays a crucial role in relaxing muscles and supporting nerve function, which may help ease migraine-related muscle tension. Stress Reduction Stress is a common migraine trigger. A warm Epsom salt bath creates a calming environment, helping to reduce stress levels and possibly preventing migraine attacks. Improved Circulation The warm water in an Epsom salt bath promotes blood circulation throughout your body, including your head. Improved circulation may help relieve pressure around the brain, reducing migraine intensity. Detoxification Some believe Epsom salt baths can support the removal of toxins from the body, a process often recommended by functional medicine doctors. While research on this is limited, many report feeling better and experiencing fewer migraines after a detoxifying bath. Better Sleep Adequate rest is essential for migraine management. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath before bed can relax your body and mind, potentially improving your sleep quality. My Favorite Epsom Salt Bath Recipe Creating the perfect bath is simple! Here’s my go-to recipe for a relaxing and therapeutic experience: Ingredients: 1–2 cups Epsom salt 1/4–1/2 cup baking soda 8–10 drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender, eucalyptus, or peppermint are great options for relaxation and headache relief). Instructions: Fill your bathtub with warm water (not too hot to avoid overheating). Add the Epsom salt and baking soda. Stir to dissolve. Add a few drops of essential oil for a soothing aroma. Soak for 15–20 minutes. This is your time to unwind—light a candle, play calming music, or enjoy the quiet. Rinse off in a shower to remove any residue. Tip: If you don’t have time for a full bath, try a foot soak using the same ingredients. It’s a quick, relaxing way to ease tension. How Epsom Salt Baths Fit Into My Migraine Routine Taking an Epsom salt bath has become a Sunday ritual for me. It’s my way to unwind, reflect, and tackle letdown migraine attacks. Some days, a bath is all I need to ease my symptoms. On other days, my symptoms are too severe, and I opt for different migraine relief methods, like massage or stretching. Everyone’s response to baths is different—what works for me might not work for you. Experiment to find what helps you the most Natural Ways to Relax and Manage Tension In addition to Epsom salt baths, I incorporate these natural migraine relief strategies into my routine: Massage therapy for muscle tension relief. Stretching and gentle physical movement to improve circulation. Exploring salt caves and using a Himalayan salt lamp for a calming atmosphere. For more tips, check out my post on natural ways to manage migraine symptoms. Important Safety Tips Before starting an Epsom salt bath routine, consult your healthcare provider, especially if you: Do You Use Epsom Salt Baths for Migraine Relief? Epsom salt baths have been a game-changer in my self-care routine. I’d love to hear about your experience! Do you find relief with baths or have other favorite remedies? Let me know in the comments below. Check out the best gifts for people with migraine Source link

I often get asked how I make it as a sports mom with migraine. How are you going to all of these games, handling all of these triggers, and surviving in these environments while living with chronic migraine? Just like most things in my life I plan, I try, I fail, and I push myself in order to maintain my quality of life. My children are my happiness and watching them do what they love fills me to my soul! 12 Ways I Make it as a Sports Mom with Migraine Being a sports mom while dealing with migraine attacks can be challenging, but it’s definitely possible to manage both responsibilities with some careful planning and self-care. Here are some tips on how I navigate this situation. Prioritize Self-Care Get Enough Sleep: Ensure you’re getting regular, good-quality sleep. Lack of sleep can be a trigger for migraine. Prioritize good-quality sleep. Establish a bedtime routine and create a comfortable sleep environment. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can also trigger migraine, so make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day. Ensure you’re drinking enough water and eating balanced meals. Dehydration and skipped meals can also trigger migraine attacks. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help reduce stress levels. Regular Exercise: Engage in regular low-intensity exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga. These can help manage stress and potentially reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. Nutrition Eat regular, balanced meals. Skipping meals can trigger migraine. I typically try to follow the Dizzy Cook, HYH diet. Identify and avoid migraine-trigger foods. Common culprits include MSG, caffeine, alcohol, aged cheese, processed meats, and artificial sweeteners. My functional medicine doctor helped me with this. Communicate with Coaches and Team Let your child’s coaches and teammates know about your condition. They can offer support and understanding if you need to take a step back occasionally. Organize schedules and plan in advance. This includes knowing the practice and game times, transportation arrangements, and any other logistical details. Plan Ahead Organize schedules and plan in advance. This includes meal planning, transportation, and coordinating with other parents if necessary. Sports Mom Migraine Toolkit Carry essentials like pain relievers, water, snacks, and any prescribed medications for migraine. Protect Yourself from Bright Lights Wear sunglasses or a visor during outdoor games to reduce exposure to bright sunlight, which can be a migraine trigger. Protect yourself from Sound Noise-canceling headphones, earbuds Protect yourself from Smells Indoor smells Outdoor smoke and smells Dress in layers Bring an Umbrella and fan Listen to Your Body Recognize early signs of a migraine prodrome and take steps to address it promptly. Don’t push yourself too hard if you’re feeling unwell. Designate a Support System Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s from your partner, family, or other parents, having a support system in place is crucial. For each sport and team my kids play on, I seek support. Identify someone who can step in if you’re unable to attend a game or practice due to an attack. This could be a spouse, family member, or another parent. Explore Treatment Options Consult a healthcare provider about treatment options. This might include medications, lifestyle changes, or alternative therapies. Set Realistic Expectations It’s okay to miss a game or practice if you’re not feeling well. Communicate openly with your child and their team about your condition. Practice Mindfulness Create a Relaxation Routine: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or visualization to help reduce stress levels. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques can help you stay present and reduce anxiety about potential migraine attacks. Stay present in the moment. Sports Moms Take Breaks Allow yourself breaks during games or practices to rest and recharge. Find a quiet place if possible. Maintain Open Communication Talk to your child about your condition. They may have questions or concerns, and being open can help strengthen your relationship. Remember, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options. They can help you manage your migraine effectively while still being there for your child’s sports activities. Sports Mom by Sport With every season, comes new challenges. Each season I limit sports exposure to triggers by identifying them and being prepared. Here’s the type of mom I currently am… Be sure to follow on Instagram for more photos and updates. Volleyball Mom with Migraine Baseball Mom with Migraine Softball Mom with Migraine Football Mom with Migraine Swim Mom with Migraine Indoor Swim Mom Floor Hockey Mom with Migraine Overall, being a sports mom is my favorite job. It takes work but there is not better place for me than watching my kids live their best lives. Source link

Tricks for a Better Halloween with Migraine Dos and Don’ts Halloween can be a fun and exciting holiday for many people, but for individuals who suffer from migraines, it can present some unique challenges. Migraines are neurological disorders characterized by severe headaches, often accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, sensitivity to light, and sound. Tricks for a Better Halloween with Migraine Dos and Don’ts Remember, everyone’s migraine triggers and symptoms are unique, so it’s important to pay attention to your own body and adjust your Halloween plans accordingly. With some careful planning and consideration, you can still enjoy the holiday while minimizing the risk of triggering a migraine. Source link