Many sufferers similar to me wish for a miracle cure to banish a migraine. Like a hundred amplified headaches, nothing seemed to work. A regular, debilitating sickness which cannot be stopped, only endured. Feeling wretched and putting up with it seems to be the norm, the only way I could cope until it faded away.

We know this pounding headache, nausea, vomiting and weakness will eventually recede but, like the beast from the black lagoon, it will rise again. Parenting, careers, shopping, everyday life dissolves for days at a time. In my case nothing worked except silence and bed rest. I spoke to doctors, attended talks, took various pharmaceutical remedies and closely watched my diet but nothing was one hundred percent effective. I needed real comparisons from others, their coping skills and understanding to alleviate the hardship of painful and debilitating migraines.

QUOTE
“In writing this book, retired doctor Jennifer Barraclough has drawn on her personal journey with migraines which began in her teenage years and persisted until later life.
‘Migraine and Me’ is a concise practical guide intended for migraineurs themselves and for their families, colleagues and friends.”
‘Migraine and Me’ by Jennifer Barraclough 2024

https://www.jenniferbarraclough.com

SYNOPSIS: Interweaving her own personal story and those of other contributors with evidence from published research, Jennifer addresses migraine from a holistic perspective. Besides summarizing current medical knowledge about causes and management, she considers psychological, social and spiritual aspects, including some controversial topics such as the concept of a migraine personality; and the reasons for stigma. Alongside the use of prescribed drugs for preventing and treating attacks, the potential for self-help through lifestyle changes and natural therapies is highlighted.

The relationship between migraine and creativity is examined, and some possible silver linings are proposed. ‘Migraine and Me’ offers empathy, practical insights, and hope for anyone affected by this complex neurological condition.

Although I no longer suffer from bed-ridden migraines, I do wish I had known about this information when I was younger, the comparisons are compiled from Jennifer Barraclough’s own research and other sufferers. It’s never too late! Reading the research and experiences of others can guide a sufferer to recognise symptoms from food, stress and environmental factors. Chapter Four ‘Triggers: Diet’ is particularly enlightening regarding cheese. Acquiring food knowledge can help when explaining to others in the office, in your family or coffee with a friend – if caffeine is not your trigger!

Migraine and Me – the ebook

It is horrible to have very little control over losing days out of your life. One of the ways Jennifer Barraclough and her contributors have enlightened me is to show I am not alone in experiencing debilitating migraine symptoms and relief may come in different ways. Knowledge is power!

❤ Gretchen Bernet-Ward 2024