Take A Look At My Migraine Toolkit!
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Last Updated on December 6, 2024 by Nell Marie
Living with migraine disease is a challenge but some tools and tricks can help.
I’ve lived with chronic migraine disease for well over a decade and in that time I’ve learned a lot about what works for me in getting through an attack.
This article is all about the tools and tricks I use and hope will help you, also.
Migraine is a very individual disease, which means that not everything I recommend will work for you, but I hope that at least one of my suggestions will.
Migraine disease is hard to live with and live life through and if I can help you even in the least, it’ll make my pain worth it.
—–> I know this can look extreme but please understand that I’ve been building my migraine toolkit for years now. I didn’t buy all these items at one time. And I don’t believe you NEED all the items to find the relief you need.
I have chronic migraine disease, which means I suffer more than 15 migraine pain days a month (more like 20), so my needs may be different than your needs with a toolkit.
If you only want to try a few items, I’d recommend the headache hat, biofreeze roll on, noise cancellation ear plugs, and migraine glasses.
What is Migraine?
But before we chat tools that helps me in an attack, I want to talk about what a migraine attack is, and what Migraine disease is, in case you’re here and have yet to be diagnosed but think you may have Migraine disease.
Migraine disease is more than just a bad headache—it’s a neurological condition that can cause a range of symptoms. The most common is intense, throbbing pain on one side of the head, but it can also bring nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.
Some people experience visual disturbances, like seeing flashing lights or zigzag patterns, known as “aura,” before or during a migraine.
Migraine attacks can last from a few hours to a few days (or more!) and can be triggered by things like stress, certain foods, lack of sleep, hormonal changes, light and sound, and more.
They’re unpredictable, and while there’s no cure, there are treatments to help manage the pain and frequency.
My migraine attacks are often triggered by light and sound but can also come out of seemingly nowhere.
Who to See for a Diagnosis
A neurologist, who specializes in brain and nervous system disorders, is the type of specialist you’d likely see for migraines.
They can help confirm a migraine diagnosis, identify possible triggers, and create a personalized treatment plan.
You might also consider seeing a headache specialist—a neurologist who focuses specifically on headaches and migraines.
I haven’t been able to connect with a headache specialist due to insurance but my neurologist has been very helpful and I recommend seeing a specialist if you are concerned you may have Migraine disease.
What Kind of Medications Are Available?
For managing migraines, triptans (like sumatriptan or rizatriptan) are common acute treatments that work by narrowing blood vessels and blocking pain pathways, while newer CGRP medications (such as ubrogepant and rimegepant) target a protein involved in migraine attacks.
For prevention, options include beta-blockers (like propranolol), certain antidepressants (such as amitriptyline), anti-seizure medications (like topiramate), and CGRP inhibitors (like erenumab or fremanezumab), which are designed to reduce the frequency of migraines.
Your healthcare provider can help decide the best treatment based on your specific needs.
I’ve tried just about everything for prevention and acute care. It is a journey to find what will work for you and your body, so don’t give up if you don’t land on the perfect treatment right away.
In My Migraine Toolbox
These are the tools I use during my migraine attacks. These are the products that have been proven to work for me and my pain.
In addition, I also take a prescription to take when experiencing a migraine attack.
Most of the time, with the medication, and these tools, I am able to knock the severity and length of the attack back by at least 50%.
I can’t guarantee the same for you and I’m not a medical professional, but I do hope some of these products will help you, too.
Cefaly
Cefaly is a neuromodulation device that is said to work with the trigeminal nerve which runs across your forehead and is believed to play a role in migraine attacks.
What I like:This device, working alongside my medication, typically takes the edge off, and sometimes takes away the pain completely.
What I wish were different: You need to clean your forehead well in order to keep a good seal and you really shouldn’t walk around, or even sit up, while wearing the device as it could possibly fall off and break.
Would I recommend it? Yes, I would. It doesn’t require a prescription and, for many in the migraine community, including myself, it works well at either easing the pain or even removing it altogether.
Cefaly Connected
Cefaly is a small, wearable device that uses electrical stimulation to help prevent and relieve migraines. It attaches to the forehead with an adhesive electrode and sends gentle pulses to the trigeminal nerve, which is linked to migraine pain. This non-invasive treatment can be used daily to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines or as needed during an attack, offering an alternative for those who prefer to avoid or reduce medication use.
Headache Hat
The Headache Hat is an ice hat which you wrap around your head during a migraine attack. It helps ease the pain and lasts up to two hours.
What I like: This is the longest-lasting cold ice pack I’ve found on the market and I’ve tried almost all of them! It’s great for dulling the pain and, like, taking your mind off the pain. Much like ice on any other part of your body, ice on the head numbs the pain.
What I wish were different:I can’t think of any changes I’d make to this product. It works great for me.
Would I recommend it?Yes! I have four! Please note that ice on the head can be jarring and make symptoms worse for the first couple of minutes it’s on the head until the head is used to it. This has been the case for me, but once the shock of the cold wears off, it feels so good and lasts so long!
Headache Hat
Cold for up to 2 hours. Long lasting ice packets inside this migraine cap remain cold longer and provide cooling relief that lasts. Reversible design allows extended use. The Headache Hat ice lasts longer than competing gel headache ice packs, and once it warms on one side, flip it to the other for continued cooling relief.
Biofreeze Roll-on & Others for Muscle Pain
I have neck pain when I’m experiencing a nasty migraine attack and have found that using Biofreeze roll-on works to help ease that pain and tension. It’s possible you may not even realize you have neck tension during your attacks but once you use this product, and feel the relief, you’ll see how it plays a role in your attacks, too.
What I like: It’s mess-free and easy to bring and use on the go. I like it better than Icy Hot because I find the cooling effect more soothing than cooling with heat afterward.
What I wish were different: Nothing! I like it and use it often.
Biofreeze Pain Relief Roll-On
Biofreeze is the #1 clinician-recommended menthol topical pain relief brand, known for its fast-acting, long-lasting cooling formula that provides penetrating relief for sore muscles, backaches, arthritis, bruises, and joint pain. The 3 fl oz roll-on offers a mess-free, hands-free application, ideal for travel with its TSA-friendly size. Trusted by pharmacists, physical therapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, podiatrists, and athletic trainers, Biofreeze is made with USP-grade menthol, free of NSAIDs, and not tested on animals, making it a reliable choice for managing minor aches and pains.
Peppermint Oil & Other Sticks
If you can’t wear an ice hat, can’t afford a Cefaly, and need some level of relief – I recommend getting peppermint oil.
You’ll put it on your temples and across your forehead.
Heads up, pun intended, you’ll want to avoid your eyes as it will burn if the oil comes into contact with them.
I use peppermint oil when I’m out in the world and don’t have access to my other tools.
What I like: Easy for on-the-go help in combatting the strength of migraine pain.
What I wish were different:I’d love to see a headache formula that works even better than just plain peppermint oil but overall, I’ve found plain peppermint oil to be the best.
The brand I use is below!
Plant Therapy Organic Peppermint Essential Oil 100% Pure, USDA Certified Organic, Undiluted, Natural Aromatherapy, for Diffuser, Skin, Hair, Therapeutic Grade 10 mL (1/3 oz)
Nurture your spirit with our 100% pure and organic peppermint oil, which unleashes a fresh, cool, and minty scent that promotes energy, focus, and mental alertness when added to a diffuser. Ideal for relieving neck tension, this versatile oil can be diluted with a carrier oil and applied to the neck and temples to ease discomfort. It’s perfect for aromatherapy, massage, DIY beauty products, or as a natural household cleaner to freshen the air and surfaces. Steam distilled from Mint Plants (Mentha Piperita) in India, our USDA Certified Organic peppermint oil is free from additives and blends well with essential oils like eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, and rosemary.
Migrastil Migraine Stick Rollon – Fast Cooling Comfort for Your Head. Aromatherapy with Peppermint & Other Essential Oils. Metal Roller. Made in USA by Basic Vigor
$12.95 ($43.17 / Ounce)
The original Migraine Stick. See why so many people love our Migraine Stick for migraine care. Enjoy cooling comfort with pure Peppermint, Spearmint & Lavender oils in a base of fractionated coconut oil.
Just apply to your temples, forehead and back of neck at the first signs of unease. Our easy-glide roller ball offers a no-mess, leak-resistant option. Contains no artificial fillers or additives.
Migraine Stick is strong enough to help with migraines but also helps with other types of headaches including tension and sinus headaches.
With their portable size, Migraine Sticks make wonderful nurse accessories for work and are truly travel essentials. TSA-compliant.
These are great self care items for women and men. Ethically made in the USA and never tested on animals.
Heated Blanket
Some of you may be thinking, “a heated blanket?! how does that help you?” and that’s a fair question.
A heated blanket is about comfort and relaxing the rest of my body so I can get through the pain of the attack.
It’s soothing and relaxing and helps me while laying in bed to close my eyes and just rest.
What I like:My heated blanket has multiple heat levels and hours and a self-shut off mode. It has comfortable material on the inside and just feels so nice.
What I wish were different: Honestly, nothing. It’s been such a great blanket.
While the exact blanket I purchased is no longer available, I found the blanket below to be comparable.
GOTCOZY Heated Blanket Electric Throw 50”X60”- Soft Silky Plush Electric Blanket with 4 Heating Level & 3 Hour Auto Off
This heated throw blanket offers exceptional comfort with its ultra-soft, silky plush to Sherpa reversible fabric and high-quality heating filament, perfect for staying cozy on the sofa or in bed during cold winter nights. It features a programmable digital controller with four heat settings, allowing you to choose a temperature up to 45°C, and includes a 3-hour automatic shut-off function for safety when you fall asleep or forget to unplug it. The blanket is equipped with an overheat protection system and automatic safety shut-off, continuously monitoring the temperature to prevent overheating, and is ETL certified for quality. Additionally, it is machine washable and dryer-friendly for easy maintenance; simply remove the controller and cool it down before cleaning.
Heated Neck Wrap
When it’s especially bad, I use a heated neck wrap with ice on my head. It’s a sight to see but it’s very helpful and soothing.
What I like: The heat, the weight, and it fits my neck and shoulders well.
What I wish were different: The cord could stand to be a bit longer but other than that, I’m happy with this product.
Below is the exact one I use.
Heating Pad for Neck and Shoulders and Back
This 2.6lb weighted heating pad, filled with micro-glass beads, is designed to comfortably fit around the neck, shoulders, and upper back, providing soothing relief for muscle tension, pain, and period cramps. It offers 9 heat settings and 11 auto-off timers to customize heat therapy, along with a countdown display for easy time control. Made of soft, machine-washable flannel, it features a high collar and user-friendly design, making it an ideal gift for loved ones seeking pain relief and relaxation. This FSA and HSA-approved heating pad is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday gifts.
Ear Plugs
I just purchased these and haven’t had time to wear them in public, but I have tested them out in my home and am very happy with my purchase and hopeful they’ll help when out at noisy places where I still need to hear what’s going on, but need the noise cut down.
Loop Engage 2 Ear Plugs – Everyday Noise Relief with Clear Speech for Social Gatherings, Work, Conversation, Parenting & Noise Sensitivity – 16 dB Noise Reduction Earplugs
FEWER DISTRACTIONS, MORE CONNECTION – Show up as your most confident self with Engage 2 earplugs. Designed with socializing in mind, Engage 2 offers discreet relief against everyday noise for clear and focused conversations, with 16 dB (SNR) of filtered noise reduction.
KEEPS SPEECH CLEAR – Combining a cleverly engineered acoustic channel and mesh filter, Engage 2 earplugs reduce loud background noise while minimizing the ‘blocked ear’ sensation common when speaking with earplugs.
PERFECT FOR SOCIALIZING, PARENTING AND MORE – Filter out distractions to stay fully present while parenting and take the edge off for more calm and focus during team projects and group gatherings.
Blue light Blocking Glasses
While I save up for Avalux prescription migraine glasses, I wear the pair below when I’m exposed to fluorescent lights, or blue lights from my computer. I work from home so this allows me to control the blue light coming into my eyes from my computer.
BRADDELL OPTICS Indoor FL-41 Rose & Outdoor FL-60 Brown Tinted Migraine Light Sensitivity Glasses for Fluorescent LED Glare, Photophobia and Computer Usage
$37.95
FL-41 Rose and FL-60 Amber Brown Tint with Anti-UV Polycarbonate Lenses
Minimize Light Sensitivity and Photophobia from Migraines, Concussion and Cataract Surgery
Protect against Harsh Fluorescent Lighting and Electronic Computer Screen Glare
Plano Lens with Premium AR Coating – VLT 40%
Ultra Thin and Light Eyewear Frame for Greater Comfort
Another option for blue light blocking glasses below:
Sleep ZM 99.9% Orange Blue Light Blocking Glasses for Computer
Sleep ZM blue light blocking glasses are designed to enhance sleep quality by filtering blue light from screens, reducing eye strain, headaches, and fatigue from prolonged digital device use. These glasses block up to 99.9% of blue light in the 480-520 nm range and feature anti-radiation technology to protect against eye damage. Available in various stylish designs, including fit-overs and clip-ons, they offer a comfortable fit for extended use, making them ideal for both gaming and general screen time.
Eye glass holders for your migraine glasses:
MoKo Squeeze Top Glasses Pouch (2 Pack), Portable Leather Soft Sunglasses Case Anti-Scratch Eyeglasses Bag Goggles Sleeve with Cleaning Cloth for Women Men, Leaves + Flowers
$8.99
PERFECT SIZE – Fits most standard sized reading glasses, swimming goggles, sport / driving sunglasses. Pouch Size: 6.89 x 3.94 x 0.39 inch
SQUEEZE TOP & STYLISH – Designed with squeeze top, it is so convenient to use. Metal spring closure ensures the pouch stay closed and prevents eyeglasses from slipping off. The eyeglasses pouch with high fashion prints can store your sunglasses in style.
FULL PROTECTION & LIGHTWEIGHT – High quality PU leather outside and the soft inside, protect your eyewear wherever you go and for any occasion. Ultra lightweight makes it easy on the go or carrying around.
Eye Massager with Heat
I don’t know about you but I always have eye pain with my migraine attacks. I’ve just purchased this eye massager with heat and can’t wait until it arrives to try out!
RENPHO Christmas Gifts, Eyeris 1 Eye Massager with Heat, Birthday Gifts for Women, FSA HSA Eye Care Gifts for Mom, Sleep Eye Mask for Relax Eye, Reduce Eye Strain
$69.99
Comfortable Heating Massage: RENPHO eye massager built-in heating pads provide a comfortable temperature between 104 and 113 degrees Fahrenheit (40℃-45℃).
Relax Your Eyes: RENPHO sleep eye mask can block out light and help soothe tired eyes by providing a relaxing warmth that can reduce stress and enhance sleep quality. Our eye machine adopts oscillating pressure and rhythmic percussion massaging, it can make the skin around the eyes more relaxed.
This fsa hsa approved eye massager can be purchased through your FSA/HSA account.
Baseball hat
Out in the sun? Grab a cap and sunglasses to help fight off an attack or help ease it if you already have one.
Sunglasses
A pair of sunglasses are a necessity! Depending on your needs and style preferences, the sunglasses below may be right up your alley!
ZENOTTIC Polarized Sunglasses for Women Vintage Oversized Square Sun Glasses Ladies Shades UV400 Protection
ZENOTTIC polarized sunglasses offer UV400 protection, blocking 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays to shield your eyes from long-term UV damage. The HD TAC polarized lenses reduce glare, enhance contrast, and prevent UV damage, providing comfort under strong sunlight. With a classic square frame design, these sunglasses are ideal for various outdoor activities like driving, shopping, and hiking. The dimensions are frame width 145mm, bridge 16mm, lens width 58mm, lens height 55mm, and temple length 145mm. Each pair comes with a microfiber pouch, polarized test card, glasses box, and is gift-ready, backed by ZENOTTIC’s lifetime after-sale service.
Cubical Light Blocker
If you work in an office, you know that overhead lights are a killer for migraine disease. Check out this light shield for your desk/cubical.
Juexica 51” Adjustable Office Cubicle and Desk Shade, Large Portable Cubicle Light Shade with Clamp
The Large Oval Sunshade is crafted from durable light-blocking material, offering extensive coverage and long-lasting use without tearing. Installation is easy with a user-friendly design—simply insert the brackets, secure the visor with the clamp, and attach it beside your seat for instant shade. Its versatile clamping system allows flexible placement and rotation to block light effectively while maintaining stability. The sunshade is fully adjustable in height and angle, and its lightweight, collapsible design makes it portable and convenient for any workspace, easily packing into a compact handbag for on-the-go use.
I don’t know if this is the same brand as the product I recommended above, but it has the same premise and design and allows you to see it in action!
@iamxiomrod Replying to @keysa4short I have it linked in my insta bio if you want to check it out. #deskshade #cubicleshade #officesetup #cubiclesetup ♬ original sound – Xiomara
Nauzene and Tummy Aids
I’m not always nauseous during a migraine attack but when I have a really rough one, I often have an upset stomach right along with the pain. I’ve found that Nauzene and my tummy oil are great for calming things down.
Nauzene Upset Stomach & Nausea Chewable Tablets Flavor, Wild Cherry, 42 Count (Pack of 1)
THE 4 MINUTE FORMULA: Quickly relieve stomach discomfort from overindulgence in food and drink
QUICK DISSOLVING: Wild cherry flavored chewable tablets
NO: Aspirin or other salicylates
NO: Caffeine or antihistamines
Plant Therapy Gut Aid Essential Oil Blend Roll-On 10 mL (1/3 oz) 100% Pure, Pre-Diluted Roll-On, Natural Aromatherapy
NATURAL DIGESTION SUPPORT: Gut Aid helps provide natural comfort and relief for occasional digestive issues, including queasiness, gas, bloating, and indigestion. Formulated specifically to help support relief from stomach issues that range from feeling too full after having a hearty meal to having a queasy stomach. The next time you’re hit with an upset stomach, reach for Gut Aid to help put your tummy troubles at ease.
Basic Vigor Migrastil Nausea Inhaler (2-Pack) – Pocket Size Aromatherapy Stick for Queasiness – All Natural, Fast Acting Help
$12.99 ($6.50 / Count)
Soothing Support: with the Migrastil Aromatherapy Inhalers, designed to alleviate queasiness caused by migraines, pregnancy, motion, chemo, and more. What a relief! These are travel and cruise essentials.
Personalized, Mess-Free Aromatherapy: Control the intensity with ease. Inhale lightly for a subtle scent or take a deeper breath for a more potent aroma. Unlike sprays or oils, these inhalers offer hassle-free use without any mess or cleanup.
Two Inhalers in Every Pack: They will last for months. Packed with pure essential oils of spearmint, ginger and lavender. These work great with the Migraine Stick for migraine support.
Organizing the Pills
I don’t go out a lot. With multiple chronic illnesses, it’s hard to go out, but when I do, I need a way to bring my meds and migraine supplements in case of an attack. Depending upon the size of the pills and how many you have, these cases may or may not work.
Sukuos Small Pill Box 3 pcs, Cute Travel Pill Case Daily Pill Organizer Portable for Pocket Purse for Vitamin Fish Oil Supplements, Easy to Clean
$6.99 ($2.33 / Count)
Easy & Convenient For Daily Medicine: The individual small daily boxes allow you to take out a single day’s or a few days’ worth of pills when you are on the go. Each daily pill case can hold up to 5-6 fish oils or 7 large vitamins.
Simple To Open and Close: Our pill box opens with the minimal force for arthritis-friendly. The indented flap makes opening effortless. A secure lid prevents dust or moisture and keeps the pill box tightly closed when dropped and prevents spills.
AUVON XL Weekly Pill Organizer 2 Times a Day with One-Side Large Opening Design for Easy Filling, AM PM Pill Box 7 Day, Portable Travel Pill Case for Medication, Vitamins, Fish Oils, Supplements
$9.99
Super Easy to Fill: AUVON AM PM pill organizer 7 day are designed to open on the same side and the lid stays open at 180°, making it easier and more efficient to fill and retrieve your pills, even friendly for one hand use
Super Large: Upgraded to a larger capacity, each pill container can hold 8 fish oils or 16 capsules for your weekly needs. Overall size: 6.1″ x 3.6″ x 1.9″, Individual size: 3.1″ x 1.7″ x 0.8″
Take It with You
I carry my migraine tools with me in this bag. It’s helpful to keep it all in one place so it’s easy to find in the home, but also take it in my purse when I leave my home for emergency help when out and about.
Cafl Cherry Makeup Bag Cherry Pink Zipper Cosmetic Pouch Large Toiltry Bag Travel Linen Make Up Organizer for Purse for Women 10×8Inch
$12.99
★Premium Material:The cherry makeup bag is made of linen which is lightweight and durable.The cherry makeup bag comes with high-quality zippers,the zipper sealing detail,sturdy and smooth sliding.
★Attractive Design:Our cherry makeup bag is printed with unique patterns, beautiful, exquisite and adorable, with a zipper on the top, it can ensure your items not easy to fall off.
Large Purse
Last, though not necessary, a large bag to hold your migraine tools pouch will be helpful. The bag I have and use was affordably purchased on Amazon.
Handbags for Women Large Designer Ladies Hobo bag Bucket Purse Faux Leather
$42.99
【Hobo Bags for Women】: Top zipper closure, with 2 side zipper pockets design, 1 back zipper pocket and elegant tassels decoration, fashionable large purses for women, perfect for shopping, dating and business, the best gift for your wife, mom, girls, and family
【Large Capacity Purse】: 15.2″ x 5.1″x 13″(L x W x H). Short handle height: 7.9″, total weight: about 0.95 KG. The removable and adjustable long shoulder strap length : 25.98″-48.03″, which can be used as a top handle handbag, women tote bag or crossbody bag for women
Wrapping it Up
When it comes to easing migraine pain, having the right tools can make a huge difference.
Products like specialized glasses that block blue light, comfortable weighted heating pads, or even innovative earplugs can help manage the symptoms and bring some relief.
It’s all about finding what works best for you, whether it’s reducing eye strain, relaxing tight muscles, or blocking out disruptive noise.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different options and see which ones fit your lifestyle.
Remember, managing migraines often requires a bit of trial and error, but with the right products, you can make those tough days a little easier to handle.
I hope this list has been helpful and wishing you as many pain-free days as possible.
