How to Live with Someone Who Has Migraines

Migraines can be debilitating to millions of Americans, according to the Migraine Research Foundation. Migraines affect women and children more than men, and a migraine episode can last anywhere from four hours to several days. Sufferers complain of symptoms that include a throbbing pain, light and smell sensitivities, and blurred vision. Their families must be patient and realize that migraines are a real illness. They can also help by adapting the family menu and watching for migraine triggers so they can help their spouse or child avoid certain things.

Instructions

• 1

  Be patient with your family member; the Migraine Research Foundation states that migraines are in the top 20 of the world's most debilitating illnesses. Your wife does not mean to miss work or not finish house cleaning. She is in too much pain to function properly and needs her family's understanding and support (see Resources).

• 2

  Watch for seasonal patterns. Often, migraines are triggered by storm disturbances and changes in barometric pressure. Storms are often worse in spring and summer, when rain is plentiful, so migraines may be too. If you can help your spouse figure out the triggers, then together you can look for a solution.

• 3

  Change the way your family eats. Certain foods and additives, especially MSG, chocolate and caffeine, can provoke migraines, so it is important to cut those out, and eat more, natural clean foods. Focus on drinking water; if your family needs a little caffeine, then drink green tea.

• 4

  Try different preventive treatments such as taking different herbs to avoid having migraines before an attack occurs. Feverfew extract helps loosen the blood vessels that trigger migraines. These treatments will keep your spouse more comfortable and functioning better.