The Holidays were OK by migraine standards, which is great considering what all that busyness can mean for one of us. One of the main reasons, I believe, I had a fairly migraine free holiday, was having fun with my kids. Not the forced kind of fun or the strenuous kind, like when they want to play blocks or trains for the hundredth time and your exhausted. No, it was something I really enjoyed too. We spent three days at an indoor water park.
Usually a trip like that would involve a migraine because of the travel and activity and kid management, but this wasn't like that. There were no schedules to maintain, there was no homework to worry about and no media! It was great. I even enjoyed going down the water slide several times with my older two. I experienced enjoyment! I was relaxed.
The other thing I've noticed about my migraine care is that I have begun really listening to my body. Going through physical therapy for my back, seeing a chiropractor, working on my posture; have all led to paying attention to my body. And when I do, I know when I need to relax. Also, I've noticed my warning signs sooner. I know when things are getting to be too much, especially stress. If I'm not able to relax on my own with a 'mommy time out' or deep breaths, then I get some help from my anti anxiety meds. I use Clonazepam. This is different then the daily antidepressants that do help with mood and pain management. These meds are taken as needed and give you that extra help you need to get over the tension you know is heading in the direction of a migraine.
Now, this hasn't been any easy tool to use and has taken some time for me to get used to knowing when I need it. I take a very low dose and I don't need it everyday. Anti anxiety meds can be addictive. For me, they really help because my biggest triggers are stress and muscle tension. I tried muscle relaxers but they don't seem to do much for me. I had thought they were working but then seemed to stop.
If you consider exploring using anti anxiety meds to help ward off migraines, I strongly encourage you work with your Neurologist closely.
I'm so glad that you were able to enjoy the holidays with your kids, and that you've found some tools that are helping you through some of the pain and stress. Happy new year!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! Happy New Year to you! There is always hope :)
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