Left with Chronic Migraine and unable to walk after the Boston Marathon attack, Lynn Julian Crisci returned a year later to run in that same marathon. Learn some of the strategies that helped Lynn get her migraines under control.

— BY LINDSAY BOSSLETT

Keep trying new options
“There is a solution out there for you — you just have to keep trying. Don’t let anyone tell you that you’re out of options. They are developing new treatments for migraine all the time, so if nothing you’re trying now is working, you never know what might be on the horizon!”

Learn your triggers
“I have quite a few of the more common ones — certain smells, like cleaning products and perfume can get me. Barometric pressure changes. Cigarette smoke. The light from electronic devices and fluorescent lights. I try to avoid them as much as I can, but you can’t always control the world around you, so if I can’t I’ll take my rescue medications right away.”

Ask your doctor about supplements
“My doctor recommended I try supplements that reduce inflammation, so I take quercetin, turmeric and CBD (cannabidiol) oil. I did notice they make a difference along with my conventional treatments.”

Seek support
“Support groups are invaluable. Reaching out to others who are suffering the same condition as you gives you a totally different perspective than you might get from your doctors. And you never know what tip or strategy another patient uses that might be a miracle for you!”

Research
“Knowing as much as you can about your condition helps you get a sense of control again, rather than feeling like the migraines have taken over. Chronic illness can take away your confidence, but knowledge can bring it back.”

Consider clinical trials
“If your migraines are chronic, there’s a good chance you’ll qualify — and even if they’re not, you never know! There are so many different treatment options being tested right now, they are doing amazing things in the migraine field.”

Find a way to make things work
“Living with a chronic condition means that things may have to change for you, but it doesn’t mean giving up on your life. If electronic devices trigger your migraines, there are special glasses and apps you can buy that can help. If your office has fluorescent lightbulbs, maybe you can work from home. There’s always a solution out there if you’re willing to find it!”

Give back
Lynn volunteers with several organizations, including the U.S. Pain Foundation. “It makes you feel good about yourself to give back. Chronic Migraine can make you feel like a burden to others sometimes — like you’re constantly needy or taking away from friend groups. But helping others with migraines can help you flip that and be the giver. You can contribute — that’s very empowering.”

PHOTO BY NIKKI COLE