‘They’re Not Overreacting’, This Is What Migraine Feels Like And How These 7 Actions Can Actually Help

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If you've ever witnessed someone struggling with a migraine, you know it's not just a bad headache. It can be scary, confusing, and emotionally draining to watch someone you care about crumble under that kind of pain-especially when you don't know what to do. But the truth is, your support can make a massive difference.

Migraines are neurological storms that often come with throbbing pain, light and sound sensitivity, nausea, and sometimes even visual disturbances. For the person experiencing it, even small actions from you-done right-can feel like a lifeline.

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This article walks you through what really helps when someone has a migraine, and what to avoid at all costs.

Step One: Recognize The Signs Early

One of the best ways to help is to spot the early warning signs of a migraine before it peaks. Many people experience an "aura" phase-this can include seeing flashes of light, tingling sensations, or feeling unusually fatigued or irritable.

Ask your loved one if they feel a migraine coming on. If they say yes, take it seriously. Offer to help them get to a dark, quiet space immediately. The sooner they can rest in a migraine-safe zone, the more manageable the attack may be.

Step Two: Reduce Sensory Triggers Immediately

People with migraines are often hypersensitive to light, sound, and smells. A ringing phone, the flicker of fluorescent lights, or the scent of perfume can feel unbearable. The most helpful thing you can do is create a calm environment.

Turn off overhead lights, close curtains, lower the volume of any electronics, and gently ask others to do the same. Avoid speaking loudly or making abrupt movements. If you have essential oils, avoid diffusing them unless the person specifically asks-scents, even pleasant ones, can worsen the pain.

Step Three: Don't Offer Random Remedies Or Say "I Get Those Too"

When someone is in pain, it's natural to want to help. But avoid bombarding them with well-meaning but unhelpful suggestions like "Try drinking more water" or "I heard ginger tea works." Everyone's triggers and treatments are different-and unsolicited advice can make them feel invalidated.

Similarly, unless you truly experience chronic migraines, don't compare their pain to your stress headache or dehydration-induced throb. Migraine is a medical condition. It's better to simply say: "I'm here for you-what do you need right now?"

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Step Four: Offer Water, Medication, Or Ice-But Let Them Decide

Some migraine sufferers find relief with hydration, painkillers, a cold compress on the forehead or neck, or caffeine. But what helps one person may worsen symptoms for another.

The best way to help? Ask. "Would you like water or your medication?" "Do you want an ice pack or to be left alone?" Let them make the call. Just your quiet presence and willingness to act on their needs can make them feel safer and more supported.

Step Five: Stay Close-But Don't Crowd

It's a delicate balance-being available without hovering. If the person prefers solitude, respect that. But let them know you're nearby in case they need help getting to the bathroom, taking medicine, or if symptoms escalate.

Check-in occasionally with minimal disturbance. A simple message on a note or phone text like "I'm here if you need me" can be comforting without being intrusive.

Step Six: Know When It's Time to Get Medical Help

Some migraines can mimic symptoms of more serious conditions like strokes-especially when slurred speech, sudden confusion, or loss of consciousness occurs. If the person's migraine is more severe than usual or includes alarming new symptoms, don't hesitate to call for medical help.

Also, if the person vomits repeatedly, cannot keep medication down, or the migraine lasts more than 72 hours without relief, professional care may be necessary. Err on the side of caution. It's better to overreact than to overlook something serious.

Step Seven: Offer Help After The Attack Too

Even after the pain fades, the person may feel drained, foggy, or emotionally raw for up to 24 hours-a phase called the "migraine hangover." Help them recover gently by handling small tasks, preparing easy meals, or just giving them space to rest.

Asking, "How are you feeling now?" or "Is there anything you need this evening?" shows continued support beyond just the worst moment of the attack.

Supporting someone through a migraine is more about empathy than action. It's about being present, patient, and responsive to what they say they need-not what you assume will help. A migraine can feel like a lonely, exhausting battle-but with you on their side, it doesn't have to be.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.