Whether you’re a professional athlete or play sports casually, migraine can impact your ability to participate in athletics. Knowing how to manage symptoms and prevent attacks is crucial. In this article, we provide essential tips and insights to help athletes effectively cope with migraine. Learn how to prepare for events, minimize symptoms, and discover inspiring stories of athletes who have excelled despite migraine challenges.
I’m getting a migraine attack right before an athletic event. What should I do?
At the first sign of a migraine attack, take any medication that helps. Mild symptoms may hinder performance, while severe symptoms may prevent participation. Monitor your symptoms closely; if they worsen, rest is best. Communicate with teammates or coaches so they can adjust strategies if necessary. If migraine frequently occurs during athletic events, consult your physician and track potential triggers.
How can I prepare prior to an athletic event to minimize the risk of a migraine?
Stick to a consistent schedule for eating and sleeping to reduce triggers like lack of sleep or low blood sugar. Regular exercise and a healthy diet help prevent migraine and improve performance. Ensure you are well-rested and your muscles are in good condition before an event.
Will exercising make my migraine worse?
Exercise during a migraine attack can worsen symptoms. Regular exercise, however, improves overall health and may prevent migraine. Rest is best during an attack unless it’s a crucial competition and you feel capable. Listen to your body and stop if the activity becomes overwhelming.
How do I decrease the severity of my symptoms?
Besides lifestyle changes, use tools to manage symptoms. Identify and minimize factors like bright lights or loud noises. For example, NBA player Dwyane Wade wore tinted goggles during games. If sensitive to sounds, use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones designed for physical activity. Check with athletic governing bodies for tool permissions during competitions.
Are there any successful athletes who have migraine?
Yes, many famous athletes succeed despite migraine:
Terrell Davis
1997 Super Bowl MVP who played despite migraine, scoring three touchdowns.
Dwayne Wade
3-time NBA Champion and 13-time NBA All-Star.
Serena Williams
4-time Olympic Gold Medalist and former world No. 1 in women’s singles tennis.
For more athletes who manage migraine, read this article.
References:
- Cline, N. (2017, September 21). Athletes and migraine: DeShone Kizer and 11 others who had to cope with them. Retrieved June 4, 2020, from Cleveland.com
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