5 Ways to Manage Your Migraine During the Workday

5 Ways to Manage Your Migraine During the Workday

Migraines are a common cause of missed workdays and canceled plans. If a migraine hits during business hours and you can’t leave the office, there are strategies you can use to manage your head pain successfully.

At Integrated Neurology Services PLLC, diagnostic evaluations are available for people who have acute or chronic migraines.

Our skilled pain management specialists provide effective treatments, including nerve blocks and Botox® injections, that support lasting pain relief and the recurrence of migraine headaches.

Additionally, our team can recommend specific ways you can manage migraine pain in your day-to-day life.

5 tips to ease migraines at work

If you have to keep working while battling a migraine, the following five tips can help you make it through the day more comfortably:

1. Drink plenty of fluids

Insufficient fluid intake can be a catalyst for headaches and migraines. Keep a water bottle nearby so you can sip from it regularly to keep your body hydrated.

You should also be mindful about what other beverages you consume throughout the day. Caffeinated coffees, sugary sodas, and other drinks can trigger migraines or make existing head pain worse.

2. Keep healthy snacks on hand

Being hungry can be a migraine trigger, so keep migraine-friendly treats in your desk to snack on. Cashews, almonds, and other nuts that are rich in magnesium help relax your blood vessels to ease head pain.

You can also eat fresh fruits and vegetables that contain essential nutrients to treat existing pain and lower your risk for a migraine.

3. Work in a quiet space

Speak with your supervisor about the available options for working in a quieter space during an active migraine. Being away from a lot of noise can make managing a migraine easier.

If possible, dim the room lights and adjust the settings on your computer monitor to reduce glare, which can worsen migraine pain.

4. Take extra breaks

Sitting in one place for too long can increase tension in your neck and shoulders, making your migraine feel worse. Extended periods of desk work can also contribute to increased fatigue, eyestrain, and irritability.

Take frequent walks around the office and head outdoors for fresh air when you can. At the very least, stand up at your desk and stretch every 30-45 minutes. Deep breathing exercises can reduce migraine-related pain.

5. Don’t delay medication

If you use over-the-counter or prescription medication for migraines, carry it with you and take it as soon as you feel symptoms start. Taking medication early helps prevent a migraine from getting worse. If you wait too long, the medication may not be as effective.

If you’re not getting relief with medications, speak with our team about other options for treatment. We offer customized care plans to reduce the severity and frequency of migraines, so you can live a full and active life without pain.

Call Integrated Neurology Services PLLC in Lorton, Alexandria, or Falls Church, Virginia, today to schedule a migraine consultation. You can also book an appointment online.

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