17 Things You Shouldn't Say To A Migraine Sufferer
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

17 Things You Shouldn't Say To A Migraine Sufferer

If you mention any of these comments to someone who actually suffers from migraines, you're dead.

260
17 Things You Shouldn't Say To A Migraine Sufferer
123rf

If you're like me, you suffer from migraines. If you're not like me, then you don't get migraines. You might get headaches but do NOT confuse them with migraines. Before you open your mouth to someone suffering from a migraine, please read the list of things not to say below. You're welcome!

1. "It's just a headache"

Stop right there. Don't say another word. First of all, it's not a headache, it's a migraine. Yes, they're different. I'd like to see you try and take this "head ache" on without complaining.

2. "Just lay down in a dark room"

Wow. What would I do without you and your amazing advice? Thank you! Why did I not think that removing myself from life was an option?

3. "You should try this..."

You really think I haven't tried everything in the book?! No, the thing you found online will not work. No, not everything that works for your friend's mom's co-worker will work for me. Everyone is different.

4. "Get some fresh air"

Silly me! Why didn't I think of that? I'll make sure to get right on that. Not. It's also hard to get some fresh air when all I inhale is cigarette smoke from everyone in public.

5. "I know how you feel"

This is what kills me every time I hear it. NOOO! You have no clue how I feel. Lucky for me, my migraines are hereditary. Say something so stupid one more time! I will cut you.

6. "You must not be that sick"

Oh yeah, just because I'm at work or class means I'm not silently suffering inside. Smell that weird smell? Yeah, that's me because I'm trying to still function but have to put some Bengay on my head for the pain. Hope it smells!

7. "Just change your diet"

Again, it's not going to work. Not everyone is the same. Just because eating a vegan diet helped someone, doesn't mean it will help me. When did you become a doctor?

8. "Were you just trying to skip work/class?"

You sure got me! My idea of a perfect day is trying to get rid of a migraine. The best part is when you've done all you can and it still won't go away. Oh yeah, and when you can't sleep because you're never comfortable. Don't you dare cry from the pain either because that only makes it worse.

9. "Your head still hurts?!"

Yes, it still hurts. No, it's not any better. Yes, it can last for days/weeks at a time. Aren't you lucky you're not me?

10. "Get rid of the stress in your life"

I'm sorry, have you not been introduced to something called life? Hello, this is the year 2017 and things aren't getting any less stressful.

11. "You should see a doctor about that"

Again with the great advice, I see. I've been to all the doctors. I have a neurologist. There's not some magical drug or surgery that can make them go away.

12. "Is it that time of the month?"

Yup, it's definitely just because I'm a woman and get periods. Idiot.

13. "Just drink some water"

Is this thing called water some miracle drink that I've never heard of? I must try it!

14. "It's all in your head"

Exactly! The pain is all in my head. And my temples. And my eyes. And my ears. And my neck. And my jaw. You're not helping it get any better.

15. "I get headaches but that doesn't stop me from going to work/school"

*Claps* Good for you! I'll get you a gold star. However, I'm sure your little headaches don't get near the extreme that my migraines do. Wanna switch?

16. "Have you taken some Tylenol, Aleve, Advil, Excedrin yet?"

No, actually I thought I would just and wait this one out and see how it goes. I feel like I'm popping Tic Tacs when I take an over-the-counter drug. I've tried everything. I need prescription strength medication.

17. "Maybe you shouldn't drink caffeine"

Actually, caffeine is what helps my migraines go away once I got one. Let me be with my large Coke from McDonald's. You're making my head hurt even more, mom.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

72315
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

133991
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments