Migraine Hacks: Little Things That Help Me Get Through a Migraine
If you live with migraines, you know that sometimes the goal isn't "fixing" the migraine. The goal is simply making the day a little more manageable. After living with migraines for years and talking with many other migraine sufferers, I've collected a handful of hacks that may provide some relief. None of these are cures, and everyone's triggers and symptoms are different, but hopefully you find some of them helpful.
Quick note: New, severe, or unusual headaches should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Migraine is a neurological condition, and this post is for support and comfort. It is not diagnosis or medical advice.
Coconut Water for Hydration and Electrolytes
Migraine attacks can leave some people (myself included) feeling dehydrated or depleted. On migraine days, I often reach for coconut water because it provides fluids and electrolytes. Some people prefer electrolyte powders or sports drinks, and these can also work well! The goal is simply finding a way to stay hydrated that feels tolerable.
Hot Bath, Cold Compress
This one sounds strange until you try it. A warm bath can help relax muscles, while a cool washcloth or ice pack across the forehead or eyes may feel soothing. The contrast can be surprisingly comforting during a migraine.
(And honestly, sometimes it just creates a dark, quiet place to hide for twenty minutes.)
The "Heavenly Pillar" Acupressure Point
The Heavenly Pillar points are located on either side of the upper neck, just below the base of the skull. Some people find gentle pressure or massage in this area relaxing, especially when the suboccipital muscles feel tight.
While this is my personal Holy Grail hack, it’s important to remember that migraine is a neurological condition, and releasing tension won't stop every migraine. However, it may help some people feel a little more comfortable.
Sunglasses Indoors
No shame! Light sensitivity is real, and if sunglasses make it easier to function, wear the sunglasses. If you’re self-conscious about sunglasses, you may want to look into “migraine” glasses. They’re often rose-colored (optimism not guaranteed, but a decrease in pain can certainly help), and are designed to filter out certain light wavelengths that tend to have a higher risk of triggering migraines. They're available through a variety of online retailers, and if you have a glasses prescription, some have migraine lenses that double as prescription lenses.
Small Amounts of Caffeine (If It Works for You)
For some people, a little caffeine helps. For others, it's a trigger. And if you’re like me, caffeine is a trigger unless you’re actively having a migraine, in which case it helps.
I know. Migraines are weird like that. Remember, learning your own patterns matters more than following someone else's rules.
Eat Something Easy
Toast, crackers, a smoothie. Whatever sounds least offensive.
Skipping meals can sometimes make things worse, but migraine nausea can make eating difficult. For me, plain, microwaved meatballs are a go-to. Sometimes "good enough" nutrition is enough.
Give Yourself Permission to Rest
Perhaps the hardest one. Migraines can come with guilt, especially when life doesn't stop. But pushing through isn't always the badge of honor we think it is.
Sometimes, resting is the most productive thing you can do.
A Few Things Worth Remembering
What works for one person may not work for another.
Migraine management often involves a combination of strategies.
New, severe, or unusual headaches should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
You don't have to "earn" rest.
If all you did today was survive a migraine, that's enough.
A Note from Dr. Taylor
I've lived with migraines for over twenty years, and one thing I've learned is that we migraine sufferers become incredibly resourceful. We all develop our own collection of tricks, routines, and comfort measures. These are a few of mine. They don't replace medical care (or chiropractic care, which is an integral part of my own migraine prevention), and they won't stop every migraine, but sometimes small things make hard days a little easier.