How to Deal With Migraines at Work

Health

Your Disability Rights

If your migraines are so bad they cause you to miss work, you may qualify for disability or the Family Medical Leave Act (depending on the size of your company). Talk to your doctor and your human resources department to see what accommodations can be made for you at work and what type of leave you're entitled to.

If You Have a Migraine While You Are Working

If you feel the telltale signs of a migraine coming on, take action as quickly as you can.

Always have your meds on hand: Whether you take over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen (with or without caffeine) or prescription triptans, make sure you have your supply with you at all times. Take them at the first sign of a migraine.

Drink caffeine: "When I get a migraine at work, I often take a break to walk to the coffee shop and get an espresso," says Leorah Haberfield, who works in a theatrical management office in New York and has suffered from migraines for the last 10 years. "The exercise and the shot of caffeine really help." Caffeine has been shown to reduce the pain of migraine. Many migraine medications include it as an ingredient. And many people with the condition drink coffee, tea, or cola as part of their treatment plan.

Have ice available: Kerekes finds that keeping an ice pack on her forehead and the nape of her neck can help ease migraine pain. Not only does she keep ice packs in the office kitchen, she also keeps a scarf in her desk so she can wrap the packs around her head.

Find a peaceful haven: It can take up to an hour for your migraine to go away after taking your medication, says Diamond. While you're waiting, find a dark, quiet place to rest and wait it out.

Stretch and relax before work: If you can start the day with a yoga class, it may help with migraines by easing stress and reducing muscle tension.

Avoid Your Triggers

Migraines happen when your body reacts to internal and external triggers by releasing chemicals that irritate and inflame blood vessels in the brain. This causes moderate to severe pain, Diamond explains. It may be impossible to keep away from all your triggers. But there are many modifications you can make to your lifestyle and office to help stop a migraine before it starts.

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