Here’s What You Can Do To Gain Relief From Migraine Headaches
Migraines are painful, recurrent headaches that are preceded by a range of symptoms such as gastrointestinal issues, sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, vomiting, and weakness. The treatment for migraines depends on the severity and frequency of the symptoms. Patients needing severe migraine help will be prescribed with a combination of pain-relievers and preventive medications. Along with the right medical solutions, it is equally crucial for the patient to prevent triggers and adopt some healthy lifestyle changes.
What are some useful home remedies for migraines?
- Essential oils – Lavender oil can be directly applied to the temples or inhaled to gain quick relief during a migraine attack. Likewise, smearing some peppermint oil on the forehead can subdue a headache.
- Acupressure – This practice involves exerting pressure to certain points on the body to assuage pain and other symptoms. Using acupressure can not only lessen the intensity of a headache but also get rid of additional symptoms such as nausea.
- Yoga – You can try some simple yoga techniques that can revitalize your mind and allow your body to loosen up. Its breathing and meditation exercises can act as a stress buster restraining anxious thoughts, which can overcome frequent and severe migraine attacks.
- Rest – Resting, especially in a dark room can help your brain to calm down. While trying to rest, you can also use a hot or cold compress to relax the nerves in your head.
What are the alternative treatments suggested for a migraine?
Apart from seeking severe migraine help from a doctor, one could also try alternative treatments to ease the symptoms. Before trying these options, it is advisable to consult your doctor.
- Acupuncture – Several studies have concluded that acupuncture can be beneficial for managing the severe pain caused by migraines. In this type of treatment, the practitioner will place multiple needles on pressure points to relieve headaches.
- Biofeedback – A considerable number of patients have gained relief by using biofeedback techniques as it educates a person how to pacify their thoughts and body during a migraine attack. In this method, sensors are attached to your body, this will allow you to monitor and regulate some physical responses triggered due to stress.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) – If your stress and anxiety tend to worsen the symptoms of a migraine, then CBT can come to your aid. This psychotherapy method instructs and demonstrates how certain thoughts and behaviors play a heavy influence in perceiving pain.
- Herb, vitamin, and mineral supplements – Some research demonstrates the evidence that herbs such as butterbur and feverfew can help in preventing migraine attacks or lowering their intensity. However, butterbur might not be the best choice in the long run because of its side-effects. Therefore, such herbs should be only used on a healthcare professional’s recommendation. Having supplements of vitamin B2 and coenzyme Q10 may also reduce the recurrence of migraine attacks. Likewise, individuals with low magnesium, doctors prescribe magnesium supplements to suppress attacks. Patients should use any herbs or supplements without the doctor’s approval if they are pregnant or already dealing with some health issues.
- Massage therapy – Regular massages can improve blood circulation and alleviate major triggers like stress. This can lower the episodes of a migraine in the long run.
Which foods can help prevent a migraine?
Patients requiring severe migraine help should follow a nutritious diet to avoid migraines. Ideally, their diet should include the following.
- Leafy green vegetables
- Whole grains
- Sweet potatoes
- Black beans
- Peas
- Almonds and cashews
- Sesame and sunflower seeds
- Summer squash
- Carrots
- Brown rice
- Fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon, and trout
- Eggs
- Fruits like papaya, berries, pineapple, melon, apricot, and peaches
Which foods can aggravate migraines?
- Full-fat dairy items
- Refined flour
- Citrus fruits
- Alcohol, particularly red wine
- Caffeine
- Processed foods containing additives
- Processed meat
- Chocolate
- Cold products such as ice creams or sodas
- Aged cheese
- Artificial sweeteners
Which are some reliable resources for migraine awareness?
You can reach out to the following organizations for credible information and any new research developments regarding migraines.
- American Migraine Foundation
- American Headache Society
- Association of Migraine Disorders
- International Headache Society
- Migraine Research Foundation
- National Headache Foundation
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