What To Do During an Attack

When an attack begins, the instinct — especially at work, especially around other people — is to push through. Most people recover better when they stop doing that.

The script

When you feel an attack starting:

• Move to a dark room, or the darkest place available.
• Reduce noise — earplugs count.
• Hydrate.
• Use your prescribed medication early, if your doctor has instructed you to — most acute treatments work best taken at the first signs, not after the pain peaks.
• Apply a cool compress to your head or neck.
• Avoid unnecessary screen time.
• Rest without feeling guilty.

That last item is a real instruction, not a nicety. Guilt keeps people upright, working, and squinting at screens through the early phase of an attack — usually making the whole episode longer and worse.

If you get aura first

Visual aura, when you have it, is effectively an early-warning system. Use the time it gives you: stop driving if you’re behind the wheel, take medication if prescribed for this stage, find a safe and dim place, and let someone know if you need to.

Afterward

An attack doesn’t end when the pain ends — the brain often needs hours or days to fully recover. Be as deliberate about the recovery phase as about the attack itself.

These tips are educational and are not medical advice. Every migraine is different — always work with your healthcare provider on your own treatment plan.