As a very healthy woman, I experienced a decade-long battle with migraines that felt like my personal villain. These weren’t just any headaches; they were the kind that made sitting still or lying down feel like a challenge. I was vomiting from the pain each time it struck. The pressure in my head was so unbearable that I often thought it might just explode.
Travelling during those years was an adventure in misery. Whether I was off-roading in the desert or navigating crowded city streets, the threat of a migraine loomed over me like a dark cloud. Picture this: bumping along a rocky road, trying to take in the scenery while feeling that familiar wave of nausea creeping in. Or standing in a bustling market, surrounded by noise and chaos, only to be hit with a migraine that left me wishing for a dark room and complete silence.
I learned to carry my migraine toolkit everywhere I went. It included pain relievers, ice packs, and a healthy dose of hope that I wouldn’t need them. Friends would joke about my “emergency kit,” but there was nothing funny about the reality of those migraines.
Then came the birth of my children, and with it, a surprising twist in my story. Miraculously, I haven’t experienced a single migraine since becoming a parent. It’s almost as if my body decided that the chaos of motherhood was enough of a challenge without adding migraines to the mix.
Now, life feels easier in many ways. Sure, I’m exhausted from chasing toddlers and navigating snack time negotiations, but I’ll take that over the agony of a migraine any day. My travels have transformed from a potential nightmare to an adventure filled with laughter and unexpected joy.
Looking back, I can’t help but chuckle at how far I’ve come. The thought of packing a migraine kit now seems like a distant memory. Instead, my bags are filled with toys, snacks, and the occasional emergency chocolate stash—because parenting requires fuel.
Travelling with kids is a different kind of adventure, filled with its own challenges. But without the looming threat of migraines, I can focus on creating memories rather than managing pain.
Essential Tips for Travellers Who Suffer from Migraines
- Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is a common trigger for migraines. Always carry a water bottle and sip regularly, especially in desert climates.
- Regular Meals
Don’t skip meals. Low blood sugar can trigger headaches. Pack healthy snacks like nuts or granola bars for on-the-go nourishment.
- Sleep Well
Prioritise sleep. Whether you’re camping in the desert or staying in a hotel, if you don’t have insomnia, as I did, ensure you get enough rest to help prevent migraines.
4. Limit Stress
Travelling can be stressful. Take deep breaths, practice mindfulness, or engage in calming activities to keep stress levels low.
Tips for the Desert
1. Seek Shade
When the sun is at its peak, find shaded areas to avoid heat and glare that can trigger migraines.
2. Wear Sunglasses and a Hat
Protect your eyes from bright sunlight. Polarised sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat can reduce glare and help prevent headaches.
3. Cool Down
If you feel a migraine coming on, cool your neck and wrists with a damp cloth or ice pack. This can help alleviate symptoms.
4. Plan Activities Wisely
Schedule outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, to avoid heat and sun exposure.
Tips for the City
1. Avoid Loud Noises
City environments can be noisy, which may trigger migraines. Use noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs when necessary.
2. Limit Screen Time
Staring at screens for too long can strain your eyes and lead to headaches. Take regular breaks and reduce screen exposure when possible.
3. Find Quiet Spaces
If the city becomes overwhelming, seek out parks or quiet cafes to relax and recharge.
4. Stay Away from Strong Scents!
Many urban areas have strong odours from food or pollution. Try to stay in well-ventilated areas and avoid triggers such as strong perfumes or exhaust fumes.
When All Else Fails
– Medication
Carry your prescribed migraine medication. Know when to take it and don’t hesitate to use it if you feel a migraine coming on. I usually feel the pressure and pain in the right eye before it hits.
– Know Your Triggers
Stay aware of your personal migraine triggers, whether they’re related to food, stress, or environmental factors, and plan accordingly.
