June is National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month

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I wake up nauseous and disoriented. Immediately, I think, “oh no, do I have the stomach flu again?” (we recently had it and the fear of getting it again…ugh) But, no. I quickly feel the sharp, searing pain going through my right eyeball. Always my right one. Another migraine. I drag myself into the bathroom to search for the medicine, and turning on the light brings me to my knees in front of the toilet. Yep, here we go again. It was the eighth one this month.

June is National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month. Something that if I’m honest, I didn’t know existed until a few moments ago. Usually, I spend my time scouring the internet for homeopathic remedies or new prescription drugs I might be able to take while nursing (spoiler: there are maybe two that are compatible with breastfeeding) than researching awareness sites. I have been thrilled to see more and more options hit the market, and I am hopeful that when I’m done breastfeeding, I will be able to find a drug that works for me. As of right now, I’ve tried everything that is remotely safe. Extra magnesium, B2, more caffeine, less caffeine, no alcohol, Topamax (anti-seizure medicine that is NOT compatible with breastfeeding or pregnancy), etc. I’m currently on Sumatriptan, which my doctor is comfortable with me taking while breastfeeding but doesn’t always get the job done. I know I’m not alone in trying so many medications, and now I know there is a whole month dedicated to bringing awareness to these debilitating headaches that mostly affect women.

According to Migraine Headache Awareness Month (MHAM), there are plenty of fun ways to show support for migraine sufferers throughout the month of June. The MHAM stresses the importance of finding community and understanding. As someone who suffers from these debilitating headaches, I agree. For years, I found myself apologizing to the people in my life when I had (another) headache. I spent so much time trying to explain that aspirin wasn’t going to help, and I can’t just “power through it.” I still apologize to my husband occasionally and he always reminds me I don’t need to apologize, that this isn’t my fault and usually, he ends up apologizing to me!

If you suffer from migraines, first of all, I’m sorry and I get it, girl. Secondly, reach out to me here or on social media. I’m always willing to share my tips and listen to your story. It can feel like having migraines takes so much away from us, but I’m confident we can all find some relief if we keep bringing them into the discussion. If you love someone who has them try to be empathetic. My husband has probably had two minor headaches in his whole life, and they were the result of one too many Miller Lites, but he always tries to understand, and I love him for it. It helps if you can just be quiet, calm, and allow the person with the migraine to dictate what they need from you. You can’t fix them. You can’t make it go away. But, you can get their medicine and maybe take the kids to the park.