*Disclosure: I have partnered with YMC and 1 in 8 Have it and have received compensation for this post. However ALL opinions are my own.*
So today I want to write about something that not many people know about me…I suffer from migraines.
Did you know that there are about 1 in 8 people world-wide who suffer from migraines? If you have a persistent headaches it is important to get the right diagnosis.
It all started when I was around 21. After a full day spent outside I started experiencing these unusual flashing lights and seeing an aura in my vision. The symptoms lasted about 10 minutes and what followed afterwards was this insanely terrible headache that lasted for about 24 hours. Even regular pain killers couldn’t relieve it. It was terrible. And the worst part is that I started getting them on a regular basis.
After a few months I went to the doctor. I wanted to check that nothing serious was going on as well as get a proper diagnosis to ensure that these awful headaches are not manifested by anything else.
Do you know that an estimated 2. 7 million people report living with migraines??? And that is in Canada alone. The actual number is however thought to be much higher since many people don’t seek help for their symptoms.
After speaking to my doctor a few times and running some tests I ended up being diagnosed with migraines. My doctor ended up referring me to the migraine specialist to help me get relief as well as solutions on ways to manage these headaches.
Having gone to the doctor was the best thing I did. And with a specialist we went through all my symptoms and my migraine history. Afterwards the doctor provided me with a chart to log in all my migraines as well as what was happening around that time to pinpoint the triggers.
And it can literally be anything; food, lack of sleep, medication/vitamins, weather…basically anything. And it is different for everyone. After charting for a few months I figured out what triggered mine. It ended up being bright light and consistent lack of sleep. Once I figured it out it became so much easier to manage. And now that I know the triggers you will never see me outside without sunglasses or a good night sleep at least every few days.
By understanding what a migraine is and realizing what the triggers and warning signs are, we can spread awareness and get relief.
I also learned that if I take a pain reliever at the first onset of the symptoms, my migraine just ends up being a very dull ache with which I can still continue on with my day. And besides medication there are also many natural treatments you can try as well. You just have to find the best treatment that works for you.
What many people don’t know is how debilitating migraines can be. They effect every area of your life and can last for days. However, I am an example that they can be managed. With the help of the doctor you can get full control of your migraines.
If you think you may be suffering from migraines, take this quiz from 1in 8. And don’t be shy, go see your doctor to help manage your symptoms. You will thank me.
Let me know in the comments if you have ever suffered from migraines and what you do for relief.
Maria, xoxo
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