Migraines are not just a headache. They are excruciating, often a pulsating and throbbing pain that can make the head feel as if it will explode. Some sufferers experience auras or vision changes, some vomit and some lock themselves in a dark, silent room until the pain subsides.

A new study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Nursing Lincoln Division and Bryan Health, finds relief may not be in a pill bottle but in some relatively easy tweaks in lifestyle -- from what you eat, how much you sleep and how much you exercise.

“Generally, narcotics aren’t that effective and aren’t appropriate for chronic headaches,” said Nancy Waltman, professor of nursing and nurse practitioner at the UNMC College of Nursing Lincoln Division. “The best treatment is a combination of dietary changes, adjustments in sleep and exercise, avoiding triggers and preventative medication.''

Waltman and Catherine Parker, nurse manager in Employee Health Services at Bryan Medical Center, conducted the 12-month study together. They had 80 participants -- all employees and students at Bryan Medical Center between the ages of 25 and 67.

Analyzing data of 28 participants, Waltman and Parker found a significant decrease in frequency (76 percent) and severity (31 percent) of migraines when participants simply adjusted their lifestyles. And 66 percent of those taking part in the study said their perception of disability due to headaches also had decreased.

“We’ve found that a lot of women remain silent and don’t get treated for their migraines,” Waltman said.

You experiment with layers, materials and techniques. Do you need the freedom to experiment or do you need various techniques to express who you are as an artist?

Both. These are not separate concepts in my work. They go hand-in-hand and support each other.

What are your latest interests in terms of techniques and subject matter?

Sewing is an element I’ve recently started using. It used to be something where I just did it to see what happens and now I sew a lot. My subject matter is the same as it ever was---it’s just material, shape and design.

Where do you see your art going?

I can’t predict where my art will go because I am always changing my work and challenging myself.

Does Miami inspire you?

Yes—it’s beautiful here. I’m not too inspired by the art scene as a whole, but I’m positive about what goes on within it. The atmosphere outside is more inspirational to me—for example, some of my paintings incorporate sports jerseys. I was inspired to do this out of being able to exercise and be active with my friends. Being around here keeps me in that mood.

You are part of the upcoming group show “Futurespective.” Can you tell us more about the exhibit?

I believe in the group of artists that were chosen to be a part of this show. I believe they are all great artists.

You are part of the upcoming group show “Futurespective.” What can you already tell us about the show and your work in it?

You incorporate found objects such as wood, newspapers and old skateboards. Can you elaborate on why you use objects and make them part of your art?

Yes. I do incorporate all sort of objects and re-claimed wood found on the streets. It is after all our environment. I try to get objects that are unusual, items you rarely see, work with them and assemble a balanced composition with them until something starts to take shape. I find that people relate to these items, which make an initial connection, but then, I change their perspective by creating something completely different and unexpected on top of each ensemble. It has become a true definition of “one ugly item by itself, it’s just ugly – one hundred ugly items, organized and systematically planned, become beautiful.”

You are from the Dominican Republic. How does your heritage inform your art?

In almost every way. First off: color. My island has a lot of color and folklore. I try using my folklore to focus on my heritage, and hide it within my work. I don’t like to scream my origin, but if someone happens to see a symbol or a Dominican item like the “Limping Devil,” guira or drums, then great! If not, no big deal. But the reality is that a lot of ideas I have, have been brewing ever since I was a child in that small island in the Caribbean. I just now posses the tools to do it. My nationality does not dictate my art, but it shapes it. ---- Keep reading this interview right here