Roughly half a million people suffer from migraines in Ireland on a regular basis.

This year is the 20th anniversary of the Migraine Association of Ireland and to mark the occasion they are hosting a public seminar tomorrow by renowned neurologist and Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School Dr Elizabeth Loder.

Migraines cost Irish businesses up to €252 million every year as a result of lost productivity with the average migraine sufferer missing between 1.5 and 4.5 days from work annually.

Those of us who get migraine headaches know the unique suffering endured during an attack: excruciating pain, sometimes along with light and noise sensitivity, and even nausea or vomiting.

And when well-intentioned friends and family offer their tuppence worth of support or advice, it can often be clear that they just don't have a clue.

So here are 6 things you might want to think twice about saying to someone suffering from migraine:

1. “Drink some water”

While dehydration might trigger a migraine, it's not going to help once a headache is in progress. You might even be too nauseated to drink.

Yes, drinking enough water, getting plenty of sleep, eating healthy foods and exercising are all helpful pre-attack, migraine is still a biological condition.

2. "You get too stressed”

The stereotypical profile of a migraine sufferer (migraineur) is that of neurotic women or high-achieving men, however while stress may be a trigger, it is not a reason for the condition itself.

3. “Try sleeping it off”

Not getting enough sleep can trigger an attack, but once a migraine kicks in it’s not as simple as sleeping it off. In fact, too much shut-eye can be a trigger too.

That being said lying still in a darkened room can help alleviate some discomfort but when someone's attack can last for up to 72 hours, telling them to “sleep it off” can be of little use.

4. "You don't look sick"

Migraine is what’s known as an “invisible illness” which can be difficult when you are suffering from an attack and you look no different. It can be even more difficult in the workplace when you are expected to perform at 100% while feeling the opposite. Best to ask someone how they are feeling rather than negating that someone’s illness is real.

5. "You should stop…..."

Eating chocolate. Drinking alcohol. Eating dairy. Yep, thanks for your well-meaning suggestions but really attacks are down to genetics and factors that are out of someone’s control.

While keeping a “migraine diary” can be useful to track potential triggers, it's down to the individual and their body.

6. "It's all in your head"

Correct. But they're not a figment of the imagination. This is a biological condition that involves the brain and brain structure and neurotransmitters and is quite complex.

In reality, the World Health Organization has classified severe migraine in the same disability severity group as quadriplegia and terminal stage cancer.

About the event:

The seminar will take place in the Ballsbridge Hotel on Sunday 23rd March from 11am until 3pm. A buffet lunch will be provided and all are welcome.

To register for either event please email info@migraine.ie or telephone the migraine helpline on 01-8941280 /1850-200-378. For more information visit www.migraine.ie. There is no cost to attend.