According to MedlinePlus, about 11 out of every 100 people suffer from migraine headaches. The intense headache's symptoms include sensitivity to light, nausea and vomiting. Some people sense an aura warning them a migraine is about to occur. Migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, alcohol, exercise and even change in sleep patterns. Prevention and treatment of migraines involves mediations and lifestyle changes.
Step 1
Write down all the symptoms you feel before a migraine occurs, advises MedlinePlus. Keep a diary to help identify migraine triggers. Identify whether you sense an aura or other visual disturbances before the onset of the migraine. Include information about your sleep patterns, eating habits and stress levels. Identifying warning signs of an impending migraine is helpful to prevent the condition from worsening and allows you to take a proactive approach.
Step 2
Discuss taking prescription medications to prevent migraines with a medical professional. Many medications must be taken every day, not just at the onset of a migraine. Medications that may relieve migraines include antidepressants, blood pressure medications and anti-seizure drugs.
Step 3
Administer over-the-counter medications at the onset of a mild migraine. Medications include acetaminophen, ibuprofen and aspirin. Always eat food or drink a glass of milk when taking ibuprofen to prevent gastric bleeding or ulcers.
Step 4
Take prescription medications at the onset of a severe migraine. Common prescription drugs include triptans, such as almotriptan, frovatriptan and sumatriptan. Still, prescription medications to relieve a migraine should not be taken more than three times per week. Taking the medications longer than directed results in rebound headaches, and the migraine will actually grow worse.
Step 5
Hydrate your body by drinking plenty of water when you feel a migraine is beginning. Water is essential, especially if a person begins to vomit.
Step 6
Sleep six to eight hours every night and stay on a regular sleep schedule. Over or under sleeping can trigger migraines to occur in some people, advises MayoClinic.com.
Step 7
Rest in a cool, quiet room at the onset of a migraine. Place a cold washcloth on your head to aid in relaxation and stress relief. An ice pack will also help relieve pain. Push firmly on your scalp where pain is most intense for temporary relief.
Tips and Warnings
- Common warning signs a migraine may occur include blurry vision, temporary blind spot, seeing stars or zigzags as well as tunnel vision. Not all people who suffer from a migraine experience warning signs. According to MayoClinic.com, nearly half of people who suffer from migraines would benefit from preventive measures. Still, only 1 in 10 people attempt to prevent migraines from occurring.
- MedlinePlus reports migraines as a risk factor for strokes. Still, most people do not suffer complications associated with the condition. Migraines do affect everyday activities such as work, school and family life. Contact a medical professional if you are experiencing speech, vision or movement difficulties. If the headache becomes more severe after laying down or starts suddenly, a medical doctor should be notified.
Things You'll Need
- Prescription medications
- Over-the-counter medications
- Water
- Washcloth
- Ice pack
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