Are you one of the millions of Americans who deal with migraines? Compared to typical headaches, migraines are much more debilitating. In addition to throbbing pain, you might experience nausea, vomiting, light sensitivity and vision problems. When left untreated, migraines make it extremely difficult to concentrate, which can be a problem at work. In this blog, we’ll review tips on how to stop a migraine at work. We’ll also review long-term solutions and where you can find professional migraine treatment in Tampa.
What Triggers Migraines in the Workplace?
As anyone who’s suffered through migraines can tell you, it’s unpredictable when one will hit. Migraines can appear out of nowhere, bringing sudden pain that disrupts your life. However, there are certain environments that are known to trigger migraines and increase their frequency. One of those environments is the standard workplace. Here are just a few common workplace triggers:
- Computer screens
- Bright, fluorescent lighting
- Loud noises
- Stress
If you work in a noisy, bright office, have lots of screen time or deal with work stress, you’re more likely to trigger migraines.
How Do You Treat Migraines?
Migraines can last anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce their intensity and frequency. Here are a few top tips:
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Many healthy lifestyle habits, such as staying hydrated, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep, can reduce headaches. It’s also helpful to maintain a balanced diet that includes vegetables, nuts and magnesium-rich foods.
- Practice mindfulness: You can reduce stress and pain through mindfulness exercises such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing.
- Hot and cold therapy: Applying heating or ice packs to your head may alleviate pain.
- Essential oils: Certain essential oils, such as lavender and peppermint, have proven effective in lowering headache pain levels.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medications: If natural remedies don’t work, consider taking an OTC painkiller.
In addition to taking these steps, try to avoid triggers if possible. This means staying away from loud noises, bright lights and screens.
How Do You Deal With a Migraine At Work?
While migraine self-care strategies are a great way to manage pain, they’re not always viable options in the workplace. For example, you can’t necessarily turn off the lights or start a meditation session. If you’re dealing with painful migraines at work, consider the following tips:
- Create a migraine-friendly workplace: Depending on your workspace, you may be able to make adjustments to create a migraine-friendly area. These include using soft, warm lighting, noise-canceling headphones and comfortable furniture.
- Communicate with employers and coworkers: When a migraine occurs, your first instinct may be to hide the symptoms. However, it’s generally better for everyone involved to be honest and direct. Let employers and coworkers know about your migraines, and tell them if you need any special accommodations.
- Request accommodations: If your migraines are particularly bad, consider requesting special accommodations such as flexible scheduling, extra breaks and modified lighting. If possible, see if you can work from home some days.
- Recognize your limits: It’s important not to push yourself too hard during a migraine—otherwise, you risk making it worse. Not to mention, working during migraines increases the likelihood of poor, low-quality outcomes. Respect your limitations, and know when to rest or request help.
If your migraines are negatively impacting your work, consider seeking professional treatment.
Discover Migraine Treatment in Tampa!
Sometimes, you can treat migraines by making workplace adjustments and practicing self-care. In more serious or persistent cases, you might need professional intervention. At Aspire Pain Relief, we offer the following treatments:
- Botox injections: Botox isn’t just a cosmetic treatment; it’s also effective in alleviating migraines. It works by temporarily reducing muscle contractions, which blocks pain signals.
- Neurostimulation: Also known as occipital nerve stimulation, this treatment reduces pain by applying electricity to the nerves.
- Occipital nerve blocks/ablation: This treatment involves administering a cortisone-based numbing injection to the scalp.
- Medication management: When combined with other treatments, certain medications may help alleviate pain.
We’ll start by evaluating your unique condition, including your health history and migraine symptoms. Then, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the underlying cause of pain. Ready to overcome your migraines and boost productivity? Schedule an appointment today!