Trying to be supportive

Hi all, this is my first post!

I'm wondering what some good things I can do for my girlfriend who gets chronic migraines? She gets them about 2-3 times a week, and sometimes they are okay, she can take her Imitrex, and about an hour later she will be feeling a bit better. I am just wondering what are some things that I can do to help prevent her headaches, or what to do when they come on.

She has been struggling with migraines since she was about 12 (i believe) and is now 18. She doesn't have insurance, so she has to get samples of her Imitrex, and of course must use it sparingly.

Also, any useful links that anybody could give me relating to exactly what migraines are, common triggers, things of that nature, so I can better understand whats going on. Any input is appreciated, thank you in advance!

Hi Sewebster,

Welcome to Healingwell. I think it is wonderful that you want to support your girlfriend in this way. I am in the UK so do not have experience of the insurance system in the USA etc. There is a lot of info about on the net, try Googling the word 'migraine' and see what comes up - of course that is when you have finished reading all the info on this site about migraine, there are many links on here too!!

take care Ann

Thanks for the welcome!

Hi Sewebster,

You are such a great boyfriend!!

My husband will rub my head for me sometimes, but some can't handle being touched.

You just wanting to help can make a big difference for her. Support can go a long way.

Amby

Haha, i don't know about a great boyfriend, but thanks =)

Believe me Sewebster, it's the little things that matter!! It might not seem enough to you, but rubbing your hands through her hair or just lying with her will mean a lot!! I have never had that sort of care and concern!

Amby is right you are a great boyfriend!!

take care Ann

Hi all,

sounds like you are well on your way to being wonderful-especially just by posting on this site!

my advice? don't make her feel guilty about not being able to do something or having to cancel plans. that is the worst! i know we all make ourselves feel awful due to headaches and the inability to function. the last thing i ever need is more pressure! sometimes i would get a roll of the eyes or a "huff" when i said i had a headache from my ex-boyfriend(note the EX ). trust me-we hate them too!

i am impressed with you! direct her to this site too!

Hey everybody, I appreciate the help, this board, from what I can see is awesome!  I got my girlfriend to sign-up (DanniM88)  or just (DanniM), I think she made a post, you guys should look her up, she is really awesome =)

I just started using the icepacks (right when they start) and it really does help.

You need to talk to your girlfriend and find out what is comforting to her. I like to have it dark and quiet and pretty much have everyone leave me alone. Of course I am a mom so if there are things that the kids need and I have that on my head then it is difficult to relax. My guy understands that he is half of a partnership so when I am down he does his part and mine so that I know the kids are okay.

check out the important to read thread. There are some computer resources there that may help your girlfriend identify what triggers her headaches.