How You Can Support a Loved One During a Migraine Attack
Why your help matters
Migraines are more than just headaches.
They can bring:
- Severe throbbing pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Heightened sensitivity to light and sound
- Emotional stress and isolation
Your support can ease their pain and shorten recovery time.
1. Create a peaceful retreat
- Offer a dark, quiet room.
- Dampen lights, turn off electronics.
- Use blackout curtains if available
2. Make them physically comfortable
- Provide blankets, cool packs, or heating pads.
- Adjust bedding or pillows to ease head and neck tension.
3. Help with medication
- Help to notice the early signs a migraine attack may be coming on, many people experiance prodrome symptoms that are noticiableby others.
- Prompt them to take their meds right away early dosing is key.
- Assist with unwrapping pills and measuring doses
4. Show empathy
- Listen without judgment.
- Acknowledge their pain is real and valid.
- Avoid making them feel guilty or weak.
5. Offer your presence
- Some prefer silence and solitude.
- Others find calm in a gentle touch, neck massage, or hand-holding.
- Ask what they need and follow their lead.
6. Remove migraine triggers
- Keep lights, noise, and strong smells away.
- Offer water or caffeine-free drinks.
- Regulate room temperature with fans or blankets.
7. Handle chores
- Take over tasks like dishes, laundry, or childcare.
- Keep appliances off—vacuuming can worsen symptoms
8. Recognize red flags
- Migraine episodes that last over 72 hours need medical attention.
- Sudden confusion, vision loss, slurred speech, or fainting require emergency care.
Why your support makes a difference
- Early intervention can shorten severe symptoms.
- A calm space helps prevent escalation.
- Emotional support reduces stress and fear.
- You free them from worries about tasks, allowing full rest.
Questions to consider
- What environment helps them feel safest?
- When do they need medication, and how do they prefer you assist?
- Do they like silence, touch, or simply your company?
Takeaway
By staying calm, attentive, and proactive, you help ease the suffering of someone with migraine. Your presence, environment adjustments, and practical help can turn a painful episode into a more manageable experience.
Focus on listening, acting on their cues, and knowing when to seek medical help.