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Holiday Gifts That Won’t Hurt - The Association of Migraine Disorders

Migraine-friendly gift guide to help shoppers choose thoughtful, trigger-free presents

By Molly O’Brien & Sara December 3, 2025

The nonprofit Association of Migraine Disorders (AMD) released a Migraine-Friendly Gift Guide to help shoppers find thoughtful presents that won’t hurt. 

“Migraine can influence nearly every aspect of daily life, including how people experience sounds, lights, smells, and even touch,” said Sara Berkowitz, chronic migraine patient and program manager with AMD. “This guide is meant to help holiday shoppers find gifts that bring comfort and joy, without potential triggers.”

AMD’s Migraine-Friendly Gift Guide includes a wide range of ideas sourced from the migraine community, including:

  • Stocking Stuffers: Fragrance-free lotions, unscented dry shampoo, cozy ear warmers, electrolyte drink mixes, and pill pouches.
  • Self-Care and Comfort Items: Weighted blankets, heating pads, eye masks, noise-canceling headphones, and migraine glasses.
  • Nourishment and Relaxation: Healthy snack boxes, migraine-safe cookbooks, reusable water bottle or tumbler, tea assortments, and meal delivery subscriptions.
  • Digital and Flexible Gifts: Online yoga or art classes, meditation app subscriptions, and gift cards for food delivery, ride-share, or wellness services.

People living with migraine can be sensitive to scents, bright lights, loud noises, and disruptions to routine. AMD offers these migraine-friendly holiday tips:

  • Avoid gifts with smells/scents, flashing lights, or loud noises.
  • Check if health-related products are HSA/FSA eligible.
  • Some with migraine may be more sensitive to certain foods, alcohol, and caffeine.
  • Avoid loud kids toys, they can be problematic for parents with migraine.
  • Include a gift receipt in case your gift contains any potential triggers.

 

About the Association of Migraine Disorders
The Association of Migraine Disorders (AMD) is a nonprofit dedicated to expanding the understanding of migraine and headache diseases through research, education, and awareness.