Migraine headaches are characterized by throbbing, pulsing and debilitating pain on one or both sides of the head. Nausea, vomiting, an aura or visual disturbances may also occur. There is no cure for migraines, but according to MedlinePlus, migraine sufferers may be able to prevent them by living a healthy lifestyle; eliminating triggers such as certain foods, odors, irritants, stress, bright lights and noises; and taking preventive medications. If a migraine starts, it should be treated before the pain becomes severe.
Step 1
Lie down in a cool, dark room. Activity, bright lights, noise, stress and odors may increase the pain.
Step 2
Place a cool cloth on your forehead or the back of your neck.
Step 3
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Step 4
Try over-the-counter medications first. A mild to moderate headache may be relieved by aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Step 5
Try alternate therapies such as massage, acupuncture, yoga or meditation if you and your health care provider agree that it may work for your particular migraine pain.
Step 6
Take prescription medications for severe headache pain or headaches not relieved by over-the-counter medications. Prescription medications for migraines include triptans, ergots and isometheptene. Other medications may be prescribed for nausea, vomiting and other associated symptoms.
Step 7
Contact your health care provider if the pain continues. You may need to go to the emergency room for intravenous and intramuscular medication.
Tips and Warnings
- To prevent migraines, avoid foods that may trigger migraines, include chocolate, cheese, dairy, baked goods, certain fruits, nuts, onions, peanut butter, and processed or marinated foods. MSG, tyramines and nitrates in food can also lead to a migraine. Other triggers may include smoke, odors, bright lights, stress, lack of sleep, poor eating habits or allergies. Keep a headache journal to identify your particular triggers. Most migraine medications cause rebound headaches if taken more than 9 days a month. If you are having frequent migraines, discuss preventive medications with your health care provider.
- Seek emergency medical care if your headache feels like a thunderclap, is accompanied by fever or altered mental state, or varies from an established pattern. Headaches that begin after age 50; increase in intensity or frequency for weeks or more; follow a history of injury, cancer or HIV; or accompany neurological deficits need to be evaluated by a health care provider, according to MayoClinic.com. Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should not take migraine medication containing ergots. No migraine products have officially been approved for use in children.
Things You'll Need
- Cool compress
- Over-the-counter or prescribed medications (optional)
