Understandably, all of this can make even stepping outside feel nearly impossible during a migraine attack.
And thats in addition to the numerous othermigraine triggersthat may set off an attack, likestressor dehydration.
My biggest trigger is precipitation.
For some people with migraine, spring and summer can be seasons of pain.
I want to take advantage of the sun and the fresh air!
For example, I use timestamps when it starts raining.
I actually give a little cheer when I see the rainit means relief will come soon.
Of course, its not a down-to-the-minute science.
Savannah H., 27
2.
For me, going for a run without sunglasses is the equivalent of going to the gym without headphones.
During college, I noticed that I got more migraines in the summer.
Then, it creeps backward until it encompasses my whole head.
Its not a cramping feeling.
Its just straight-up pain.
If I take over-the-counter pain medication when I first sense the pain, then my episode is less intense.
If I dont catch it early enough, Ive reached the point of no return.
For me, going for a run without sunglasses is the equivalent of going to the gym without headphones.
At home, I draw the shades in my apartment on sunny days because it can trigger migraines.
When I travel in the summer, I limit how many things I do outside in a day.
I dont wake up and start walking around a city from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
I have a go at alternate indoor and outdoor activities.
Spending time outdoors in the summer is something I wish I could do more of.
Jordan H., 25
3.
My Google calendar is my bible.
Every year, when spring comes, I develop more migraines than usual.
During other times of the year, I average about one migraine a month.
In spring, my episodes might jump to seven to 14 in a month.
I cant always identify why this happens.
I enter the season and just acknowledge, Okay, Im in it.
Im obsessed with scheduling, and my Google calendar is my bible.
Each week is scheduled in advance, and I have every day planned out.
Its always very clear to me what Im doing hour-by-hour.
I ask myself, What is my energy level this week?
Do I need to connect with people or do I have to pull back?
If Im feeling depleted, I try not to make a lot of plans.
I know the moment will pass, and I will have more energy to spend time with friends again.
Susannah A., 26
4.
Dehydration can trigger a migraine for me, so I bought a machine to make sparkling water at home.
Im way more likely to drink water if it has bubbles in it.
I have learned to shift the way I live.
Im originally from California, and being in the sun is one of my favorite things to do.
I have to stay under the shade.
Ill see Shakespeare in the Park or go on a picnic then.
Now, I acknowledge and honor the strength that comes with living with chronic pain.
