Chronic migraine is wicked

Actress Kristin Chenoweth on living with this invisible illness.

IN a nutshell My mother lives with chronic migraine. Growing up, I can't tell you how many times I found her lying in bed with the lights off and curtains closed trying to score some relief. Reducing noise and turning off bright lights can help relieve migraine symptoms for many people. But how are you supposed to avoid light and sound when you're a big-time performer like today's guest, Kristin Chenoweth? Keep reading to find out! Grab some popcorn and find your seats, everyone. Here's what's on the bill for today's show –– err, newsletter: • Kristin Chenoweth Q&A • the "army tank of sleep masks" • oral health stats that inspire a call to the dentist • more health stories you need Be well, Morgan Mandriota Newsletter Editor, Healthline

Written by Morgan Mandriota December 16, 2022 • 6 min read

When Kristin Chenoweth, star of "Wicked," "Glee," and "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown," was 25 years old, she had her first migraine attack while performing with the Virginia Symphony. She found a way to perform until the end, but as soon as the curtain dropped, she collapsed. The doctor who attended to her said she was having a migraine attack. Below, the Tony- and Emmy-winning actress opens up about what it's like to live with chronic migraine –– from managing triggers to navigating showtime and beyond. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Q: How has living with an invisible illness like migraine been challenging for you? A: Chronic migraine is a disease that can't always be seen, but it's always there. I think that's one of the biggest struggles for me –– educating people that chronic migraine is more than just a headache. It's serious. There have been times when I've been on the floor, unable to move, vomiting, and unable to go out on stage. Over the years, I've tried to power through, but sometimes you need to take time for yourself. I don't want this next generation to feel like they always need to "tough it out" either. Q: When you know you're walking into a situation where you won't be able to avoid migraine triggers, are there things you've found you can do to lessen the impact? How do you prepare for situations when you know you're risking a migraine attack? A: In addition to Botox treatment, I've learned my triggers are stress, flying, working too many hours, and diet. I do try to manage them as much as possible, of course. I'm on a plane a couple times a week these days! Bright lights can also be a trigger, so it may look funny, but I wear sunglasses everywhere. Additionally, I avoid alcohol and eat a low salt diet. Q: How do you power through a migraine when the show, literally, must go on? A: There have been times when I wasn't able to do what I love because of a migraine attack. As a performer, I'm always thinking about that little girl in the audience who is in New York City to see a Broadway show for the first time. She deserves my 100%, and I feel guilty if I'm not able to give that to her. I was struggling with a migraine attack the night I won my first Emmy Award. I couldn't even celebrate because taking pictures and socializing was just too much. The last thing you want to do is let down your friends, family, and colleagues, but for many people with chronic migraine, that's just the reality. Q: Looking back on your career and your journey, has living with a chronic illness taught you anything about navigating work and life in general? A: It has reinforced the impact of compassion for people around you. For me, chronic migraine underscores that you just don't know what other people are going through. Q: What advice would you give to someone newly diagnosed with chronic migraine? A: It's so important to find a doctor with whom you can be open and honest –– someone who listens carefully to your needs and is willing to work with you to find a treatment plan. I want people living with chronic migraine to know: You are not alone. To learn more about migraine and how to find support, check out our resource center here. Or you can sign up for Healthline's Migraine newsletter with one click by hitting the button below! Sign up now

great finds Editor faves with health perks You know those great finds you just *have* to tell your friends about? That's how we feel about the products we recommend here. Every pick has been vetted by our editorial team, and we genuinely think it'll make your life better.       Manta Cool Sleep Mask Review courtesy of senior newsletter editor Ashley Sepanski When I'm in the throes of a migraine, sleep is the only thing that reliably helps me manage the pain. So, I'm a big fan of sleep masks, which help ease symptoms like light sensitivity, concentrated eye pain, eye fatigue, and nausea. Consider this sleep mask the army tank of sleep masks, especially for those with sinus or head pain woes. Its blackout fabric is soft, lightweight, and as effective as blackout curtains. The addition of two chill-able eye weights provides targeted relief that has brought me back from the brink on a number of occasions. It's also a great choice for folks without headaches. The weighted eye discs are removable so you can choose your own sleepy adventure. Shop now

Weird Science Welcome to your dental health reality check Ready for some unsettling oral hygiene stats? The World Health Organization (WHO) recently announced that almost half of the world's population has untreated oral diseases. But wait, there's more! According to new insight from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): • more than 26% of U.S. adults have untreated dental cavities • nearly half (46%) of adults age 30 and older show signs of gum disease • 13% of youth between ages 5 and 19 have untreated tooth decay As alarming as this sounds, rest assured that most oral health conditions are preventable or can be treated with early detection. So, take this as your reminder to schedule your next dental appointment. (Also, don't get down on yourself if this story hits close to home. The WHO's report also called out how expensive and inaccessible dental care is across the globe.) Moral of the story? Take care of your mouth now before problems arise. Experts recommend one or two visits to the dentist each year, brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and flossing at least once a day. For more oral health tips and info, check out our guide here.

health stories you need What we're reading next Why are we more likely to get sick in cold weather? Whoever says "wear a coat or you'll risk getting sick" isn't lying. New info on the link between cold weather and immunity explains why. Laser therapy may help boost short-term memory. This has big future implications for people with ADHD, Alzheimer's disease, and other conditions with memory-related issues. 10 of the best protein bars to fuel your day. After trying 25 different products, our testers and dietitians approved this list of the top (tasty!) protein bars. Feeling burnt out? Burnout can affect your work, energy, motivation, and overall quality of life. Try these 11 helpful coping tips recommended by mental health experts.

Thanks for reading! Is there a chronic condition you want us to cover in an upcoming newsletter? Let us know at wellnesswire@healthline.com, and we'll do our best to report on it sooner than later. Oh, and one more thing: We love helping you and reading your messages, but we're not doctors. Please see a healthcare professional for personal medical concerns.

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