Shades for Migraine 2023: Date, History, Facts about Photophobia

The 21st of June is Shades for Migraine Day, a global awareness campaign encouraging everyone to wear spectacles in support of the one billion people living with migraine disease worldwide. More than four million people suffer from chronic migraines, experiencing at least 15 migraine days per month. During an attack, which can last between four hours and three days, over ninety percent are unable to work or function ordinarily.

The background of Shades for Migraine

The Association of Migraine Disorders (A.M.D.) created the Shades for Migraine social media campaign in 2017. It is a method to generate viral interest in a disease that affects over one billion people worldwide. Photophobia, or excessive sensitivity to light, is a migraine symptom represented by sunglasses. On or around June 21 of each year, individuals with migraine disease and their families, friends, and coworkers post pictures of themselves wearing sunglasses on social media. Participants utilise the hashtag #ShadesForMigraine and encourage others to participate in order to make the campaign go viral.

Organisers report that the campaign grows each year. In 2019, the Shades for Migraine team convened in New York City’s Times Square to distribute sunglasses, educate the public about migraines, and encourage those living with migraines to share their stories as part of a new initiative titled “Taking it to the Streets.” This action is intended to familiarise the public with purple spectacles as a symbol of migraine awareness, to educate the public about migraine disease, and to introduce migraine sufferers to organisations that can provide assistance. In 2020, 44 countries will participate in Shades for Migraine, and more than 20 million people will be reached.

A migraine is distinct from a headache. The pain is a common symptom of this complicated neurological disease. Another prevalent symptom is photophobia, or sensitivity to light. In this instance, donning sunglasses is a precaution against photophobia. Additional symptoms include irritability, auditory sensitivity, vertigo, nausea, and vomiting. Stress, hormonal changes, an irregular sleep schedule or a change in sleep routines, caffeine and alcohol, and climatic changes can all serve as triggers. Due to the fact that migraines are frequently misdiagnosed and untreated, it is best to consult a physician if you experience any of these symptoms.

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5 FACTS YOU MUST KNOW ABOUT PHOTOPHOBIA

People with mental health issues such as melancholy, anxiety, and bipolar disorder are susceptible to photophobia.

Photosensitivity differs from photophobia; it is an increased sensitivity of the epidermis to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

The most essential treatment for this symptom is to treat the underlying condition, such as a migraine or dry eyes.

Sunglasses are a temporary solution for photophobia, as avoiding light on a regular basis can exacerbate the condition.

Photophobia can persist for years in patients with a chronic condition.

SHADES FOR MIGRAINE DATES