Being a migraine sufferer for the last 10 or so years, I think I've heard it all. My migraines have left me laid up in bed, in the neurologist's office every few months, and constantly sick for weeks at a time. Here are 7 you should never say to someone suffering from a migraine.
1. "It's just a headache! You're fine."
Migraines are not "just headaches". Migraines last for days (or even weeks!) and can cause so many daily struggles. I've missed out on so many opportunities because of a migraine, I've suffered for days in bed too sore to move, and I've sat through a lecture in tears because of how much pain I'm in. So no, it's not just a headache and I'm not fine.
2. "You're faking it."
I would never wish the pain of a migraine on anyone let alone fake it. If I'm crying in the fetal position, taking Tylenol or my pain meds by the handful, just take my word for it.
3. "Just drink some water."
All that will do is make me have to pee. Water does not cure all, especially not migraines.
4. "You took a nap, so why does your head still hurt?"
Napping, at least for me, just makes my migraine worse. My migraines make my whole body hurt, and there is no way to get comfortable. Sorry my nap didn't help.
5. "Is there something wrong with you?"
I've been asked this and have heard of other people being asked this, just stop. First, it's rude. There are many different things that cause migraines and headaches alike, however it is not polite to ask what's wrong with someone. In my case, I don't know. But someone could have a serious medical condition and it's not your place to ask.
6. "You've had a headache all week."
Thanks, I didn't notice. Migraines can last a lot longer than that, and I don't need to be reminded constantly that I'm in pain.
7. "You're ruining *insert plan/event here* for everyone."
I know! Not only is my migraine hurting me, but so is the fact that plans get ruined when I'm in too much pain to move. By telling someone who is too sick to go out that they ruined your night doesn't help anyone. You're becoming the problem.
