Chapter 11: Contingency planning: Personalized Readiness Kit & ER Plan
To effectively manage headache or migraine attacks, it’s important to have a well-prepared kit that can provide relief when symptoms arise. Here are some essential items that can support you, especially as a veteran navigating these challenges:
Make sure the following items go with you wherever you go in a pouch or zippered kit:
The Wherever/Whenever Mission Ready Kit:
| Prescription Meds—Abortive & Preventive | Migraine glasses and/or Sunglasses | Small blanket or throw |
| Over the Counter (OTC) Meds | Hot/Cold Compress | Portable massager |
| Headache Journal (if not on App) | Earplugs or noise cancelling headphones | Hydration supplements |
| Hard copy of your list of meds in case phone not working | Essential oils | Reusable water bottle |
| Contact card for Loved Ones in case of emergency | Comfortable Neck pillow | Healthy snacks – anti-inflammatory |
| List of allergies and drugs that have had bad side effects | Stress relief (toys, balls) | Stretching, relaxing guide |
| Neuromodulation device | Eye mask to block light in case of photophobia | List of your current medical problems |
Emergency Department Visits:
In the case of emergencies, be mission ready, as you might not feel well enough at that moment to describe adequately what you are feeling, and your mission ready kit can do some of the speaking for you. The kit should contain your headache-migraine information (diagnosis details, your typical symptoms, effective treatments, treatments that haven’t worked in the past, your primary care provider, your specialist(s), and other relevant medical information/history.
- Know which ER you should be going to, and how you will get there
- Find Emergency Department covered by VA
- Find Emergency Department covered by TRICARE
- Bring all your medical history information (hard copy or App)