Home » Advice for family & friends » Tips for helping to avoid or manage migraine

What are some tips for helping with migraine?

Migraine is different for everyone, from symptoms to duration each person will have a unique experience. However, when having a migraine, the individual may not be able to function normally and that’s where family, friends and colleagues can support.

What are some of the ways you can help someone with migraine avoid an attack?

  • Help them to maintain a regular sleep schedule – both the amount of sleep and quality of sleep (e.g. avoiding waking up often) can have an impact on migraine frequency and severity.1
  • Ensure they are hydrated as dehydration can trigger migraine attacks.2
  • Eating regularly and at the same time each day can be helpful.1,2
  • Are there ways you can assist them in managing stress? This can include joining in relaxing activities or just being there to talk about how they are feeling.2
  • Look to reduce triggers at home and the workplace where possible. From minimising lighting or using lamps instead of overhead lights to providing a quiet area, there are several things you can do. Take time to discuss their triggers with them to see what might help.2

Migraine can be very painful and often it can be difficult to help someone during an attack. However, a few things you can do include:

  • Keep the environment they are in quiet and dark. Noise and light can make migraine worse. This can include finding somewhere for them to lie down, rest or have a short nap. For some this can be all that is needed to stop a migraine attack.2
  • Provide water or fluids to help keep them hydrated.2
  • Make sure they have access to any medications that they use during their migraine attacks.2
  • Offer to provide ice packs/heat packs which they can use on their head and shoulders as this can help reduce the pain and discomfort.2
  • For some people food or snacks can help with migraine, see if there is anything you can offer that might assist.2

References

  1. Will Better Sleep Ease My Migraines? WebMD. Online. Available at https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/features/do-your-sleep-habits-trigger-migraines [last accessed July 2024]
  2. Q&A: How to help a family member or friend with migraine. The Migraine Trust. Online. Available at https://migrainetrust.org/news/qa-how-to-help-a-family-member-or-friend-with-migraine/ [last accessed July 2024]

What to do if you need help now

If someone's life is at risk and it's an emergency, you should call 999 or go straight to A&E.

Support directory

UK-NOTPR-2023 | August 2024