Migraine headaches affect 36 million Americans, according to 2009 information from the National Migraine Association. A migraine headache may occur on one side of the head or both. The condition may be accompanied by nausea and light and sound sensitivity. The exact cause of migraine headaches remains unknown; however, MayoClinic.com reports both hereditary and environmental factors have some influence. A number of occurrences may trigger a migraine attack including stress, hormones and certain foods. Migraine headaches and associated symptoms may be eliminated with a variety of treatment options.
Step 1
Take over-the-counter pain relieving medications as soon as you experience the onset of a migraine episode. According to the American Headache Society, most migraine headaches must be treated within the first two hours of onset. Advil, ibuprofen and aspirin relieve mild migraine symptoms. Migraine-specific drugs are combination of acetaminophen, aspirin and caffeine; these drugs do not treat severe migraines.
Step 2
Rest in a dark, quiet room after taking medications, suggests MayoClinic.com. Focus on relaxation by breathing slowly and resting both the mind and body. Practice meditation, yoga or muscle relaxation exercises for increased relaxation.
Step 3
Place an icepack onto the back of the neck or on the head to relieve symptoms of the migraine. Press gently on the scalp where the pain is most severe, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 4
Sleep if possible. Regular sleep is important; however, MayoClinic.com also advises that too much rest may throw the body off schedule. Strive for six to eight hours of sleep every night.
Step 5
Discuss prescription migraine drugs with your medical professional if over-the-counter drugs do not eliminate migraine headaches. Drugs treating severe migraine attacks also relieve symptoms associated with light and sound sensitivity and nausea. Medications include sumatriptan and rizatriptan. Understand the side effects of medications, which may include dizziness, muscles weakness and nausea, reports MayoClinic.com.
Step 6
Keep a migraine diary, suggests the University of Maryland Medical Center. Keeping a diary aides in identifying migraine trigger points so you can avoid them. Write down the date and time the migraine begins. Add notes surrounding the episode including activities, foods and other possible environmental concerns. Attempt to identify a repetitive pattern after several migraine episodes have occurred.
Tips and Warnings
- Drink fluids to avoid dehydration if you are experiencing vomiting with your migraine episode. Suck on ice chips if keeping down liquids is difficult.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter pain relieving medications
- Ice pack
- Prescription migraine medications
- Diary or notebook
