Anyone who experiences migraines knows they go far beyond a typical headache. In fact, the headache itself often isn’t the most debilitating part. For me, migraines feel like a full-body assault.
My migraine episodes typically kick off with blurred vision, a hint of nausea, and a dash of dizziness. If my body is particularly cranky, I’ll get an “aura.” It starts with half-blindness in one eye, followed by a band of flickering lights that takes over my field of vision, only to slowly fade away about 30 minutes later.
The first time I encountered an aura, I honestly thought I was having a stroke. Fast forward fifteen years, and after countless experiences, I can reassure myself that I’m not dying and that my sight will return soon. Yet, the fear still grips me every time.
Once the aura dissipates, the pain hits. It feels like a relentless throbbing that courses through my body. The pain usually settles on one side of my head, radiating through my neck and back. I often feel as if I’ve just run a marathon or caught the flu. This torment can last for a few hours, but sometimes it lingers for days.
In the grand scheme, I consider myself fortunate. I don’t suffer from migraines daily, weekly, or even monthly. However, I typically have at least one episode each month, often coinciding with hormonal changes. On particularly stressful days, I may experience even more.
But perhaps the most challenging aspect of migraines is managing them while parenting. Migraines and motherhood clash in the most inconvenient ways. Whoever thought it was okay for moms to endure this was clearly joking at our expense.
The unpredictability of migraines adds to the chaos. I vividly remember the anxiety of driving with my kids, terrified that an aura would strike and I’d have to pull over while they cried in the backseat, all while I struggled to maintain my composure. Just the thought of it creates a constant state of anxiety.
And let’s not forget the sound sensitivity that often accompanies migraines. When I’m not feeling well, my kids seem to ramp up the chaos. They may not fully grasp what a migraine entails, leading them to demand attention when all I need is some peace and quiet in a dark room.
Recently, I experienced a particularly nasty migraine, following another just weeks prior. In my usual fashion, I turned to the internet and scoured lists of migraine triggers, hoping to pinpoint what might have caused this latest episode—and how to prevent the next one. Stress, sleep irregularities, loud noises, hormonal shifts—you name it. Half the triggers seemed to sum up the reality of motherhood.
In essence, parenting itself can spark a migraine, and once it strikes, motherhood only amplifies the discomfort. Plus, the self-care strategies that could help are often impossible to implement when you’re a mom.
So, what’s a migraine-afflicted mom to do? Well, medication is always an option—both for prevention and relief from symptoms. Don’t hesitate to discuss this with your doctor. Many have also found success with alternative therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic adjustments, or dietary modifications, though these approaches vary in effectiveness. Even medical professionals are sometimes baffled by migraines, often suggesting that avoiding triggers is the best way to manage them.
When I find myself in a cycle of relentless migraine attacks, I interpret it as a sign that I’m running on empty and must prioritize self-care, even if it feels nearly impossible. Lately, I’ve been trying to take a stand against stress and sleep deprivation, which are two of my primary triggers. I’ve learned to say “no” to anything that adds stress to my life. Plans get canceled, I turn on the iPad for my kids, and I carve out time for sleep. Surprisingly, this strategy often helps keep migraines at bay for a while.
During a migraine attack, I’ve started to practice self-care instead of playing the mommy martyr, which only prolongs my misery. I’ve learned to communicate with my family about needing some space and that they can manage on their own for a bit. This not only speeds up my recovery but also teaches my kids empathy. They learn that physical ailments aren’t always visible and that even moms need a break to recharge.
In conclusion, while managing migraines as a mom can feel daunting, prioritizing self-care and being open about my needs has made a world of difference. For more insights on navigating the complexities of home insemination and motherhood, check out this helpful post here. If you’re exploring options for fertility, Make a Mom offers excellent resources. Additionally, for a comprehensive look at various treatments, visit WebMD.