Migraines are caused by the swelling of blood vessels in the brain when serotonin levels increase. Changes in weather or altitude, strong smells, bright lights and missed meals are just a few examples of what can trigger migraines. If you suffer from migraine headaches, you know they are incredibly painful and can be extremely debilitating. A number of treatment methods are available if you prefer a natural approach over medications.
Step 1
Keep a health journal. Make brief notes about the environments you are in each day and how you generally feel. Include lighting exposure, scents or odors, foods you ate, whether or not you wore perfume and so on. Doing so can help you to identify triggers that may be causing your migraines and reduce the likelihood of them reoccurring.
Step 2
Learn breathing techniques for relaxation. Because serotonin is a chemical that affects your mood, being able to calm yourself down when you feel a migraine coming on prevents serotonin from rising rapidly and fueling a migraine. Do some simple breathing by inhaling for 10 seconds and exhaling for 10 seconds. Repeat three to five times.
Step 3
Learn muscle relaxation techniques, such as Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR). Start by clenching your first as tight as possible for 15 seconds. Slowly and gradually release your grip until you feel a sense of relaxation.
Step 4
Neutralize your environment to reduce your symptoms. If light exposure causes your migraines, move to a dark room or close your eyes and take some deep breaths. If your migraines are caused by smells, go outside or to a room with fresh air.
Step 5
Work with your doctor to develop a treatment plan taking situational factors into account. For example, exercise is helpful to some people in preventing migraines but certain exercises can bring on a migraine for others. Additionally, some women experience migraines as a result of increases of estrogen from birth control. Talk to your doctor about what form of contraception is best for you.
