Migraine headaches result from neurological disturbances triggered by brain chemical imbalances, hormone changes and environmental conditions, notes the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Five distinct phases of migraine attacks occur, accompanied by a cascade of events during each phase. The prodrome and aura phases initiate uncomfortable symptoms such as heightened senses, light sensitivity and visual disturbance. The headache and termination phases signify the painful portion of the migraine and exhaustion from the pain experience. The postdrome phase is the period after pain subsides when residual migraine symptoms occur, leading the sufferer to feel fatigued, irritable and lacking energy.
Step 1
Residual migraine occurs after significant pain subsides; however, the lingering symptoms of discomfort, irritability and fatigue can be alleviated through the use of over-the-counter pain relievers containing caffeine.The Cleveland Clinic cautions that the overuse of pain relievers can also cause headache symptoms or create dependency if used more than three times a week. Consult your physician regarding best relief medications to use for residual symptoms.
Step 2
Press your thumbs underneath the base of the skull. Acupressure used in combination with other treatment methods can alleviate tension from residual migraine. Holistic Online explains that placing pressure on each side of the base of the skull and massaging this point can offer relief. Pressure placed on the top of the foot between the big toe and second toe, then switching to the other foot, may also offer migraine relief.
Step 3
Eat natural foods low in sugar. The Cleveland Clinic notes that certain foods containing high levels of tyramine trigger the painful symptoms of migraine. The National Headache Foundation indicates that fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, blueberries and greens contain natural sugars and minimal tyramine. Avoid aged dairy products, meats with nitrates and alcoholic beverages when trying to get rid of residual migraine symptoms.
Step 4
Lay down and try to relax your muscles. Relaxation exercises can rejuvenate the body and calm the mind. MayoClinic.com suggests trying progressive muscle relaxation for 30 minutes each day to reduce stress and energize the body. Sit or lay in a comfortable, dimly lit room. Start from your feet and begin contracting and releasing each muscle group up the legs, into the arms and abdominal area. Hold each contraction for three to five seconds before moving on to the next muscle group.
Step 5
Take a nap or regulate your sleep schedule. Lacking sleep can increase the symptoms of irritability and fatigue. Plan a daily nap for the week after severe migraine pain subsides to rid yourself of discomfort. Try to get on a sleep schedule at night to prevent lethargy in the daytime. For best results, sleep six to eight hours a night, MayoClinic.com recommends.
Tips and Warnings
- Women experience migraines more often than men due to hormonal changes. Speak to your physician about possible interventions to regulate hormones in the event of severe migraine attacks.
- Stress can aggravate symptoms. Work on managing daily stress through exercise, relaxation or finding support.
