Migraines are significant recurring headaches that affect millions of Americans annually. Moderate to severe pain, often with a pulsating aspect, characterizes migraines. Any physical activity exacerbates pain. The Mayo Clinic indicates that migraines typically last between four and 72 hours. You should keep a log of activities you are doing before your migraines occur. If you are able to narrow down the most common triggers, you should be able to minimize your exposure to them.
Step 1
Remove any visual and auditory stimuli. Wearing polarized sunglasses will prevent the sun’s light from triggering retina-induced migraines. Any bright or flashing light will instigate a tension headache. At the onset of symptoms, you should seclude yourself in a dark quiet room to stop the progression of a migraine.
Step 2
Place an ice pack under your neck and immerse your hands in warm water. Lowering the temperature around your throbbing headache and elevating the temperature of your extremities will force blood flow away from your head and relieve pressure. You may also find comfort in covering your eyes with a damp towel.
Step 3
Avoid caffeine and maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Sticking to a consistent bed time is good for adults as well as children. Since caffeine is a common headache trigger, eliminating caffeine will help lower overall blood pressure and sure make getting to sleep easier.
Step 4
Prevent sugar fluctuations. Fast changes in blood sugar instigate tension headaches. Setting a schedule to eat protein and complex carbohydrates every few hours will prevent blood sugar induced migraines.
Step 5
Consult a counselor. Psychologist can be invaluable in teaching stress management techniques that will prevent blood pressure from building. Lower blood pressure will lead to a calmer attitude and fewer migraines.
Step 6
See a medical professional. Prescriptions for anti-depressants, anti-epileptic, or beta-blockers may ease pain or prevent migraines. Most of these medications are expensive and can have some severe side effects so you should try to find a home remedy before resorting to medications.
Things You'll Need
- Polarized sunglasses
- Ice pack
