1. Oh My Aching Head
Migraine sufferers are all too familiar with the excruciating pain that accompanies their headache. Then there is the upset stomach, sensitivity to light and sound and the overall exhaustion once the migraine subsides. Victims of this type of vascular headache are willing to try anything to alleviate the pain and discomfort they bring. Unfortunately, treating migraine headaches is no simple task.
2. Classic Versus Common Migraine
How you treat your migraine headaches depends on the type of headaches you have. The classic migraine sufferers experience an aura prior to their headache that includes flashing lights, zigzag lines or momentary vision loss. Pain is often limited to one side and may linger for several days, usually affecting areas surrounding the eyes, such as your forehead, temple, ears and jaw. Common migraine sufferers do not experience an aura. Instead, they are subject to mood swings, confusion, exhaustion, fluid retention and nausea. Average duration of a common migraine is a few days.
3. Put Your Finger on the Trigger
Treating your migraine headache begins with identifying possible "triggers." Triggers range from hormonal imbalance, changes in weather patterns or barometric pressure, foods or beverages, stress, odors, poor eating or sleeping habits, the environment or medication. Keep a headache journal that includes information, such as the date and time of your headache, weather conditions, recently consumed food or liquid, lifestyle or environmental changes. See if a pattern emerges. Eliminate any recurring triggers to decrease your headache's frequency.
4. A Pill for What Ails You
Ask your physician about available prescription medications to treat migraine headaches. Ergot drugs (DHE or dihydroergotamine) and Triptan drugs (Imitrex, Relpax and Zomig) stop migraine pain. Avoid these medications if you suffer from heart disease or high blood pressure. Drugs prescribed to treat other illnesses also work on migraines. Consider Topamax or Depakote for epilepsy, beta- and channel-blockers (Inderal, Cardizem) for high blood pressure or irregular heart rate, (NSAIDs) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and anti-depressants (Norpramin, Elavil). Side effects may include weight fluctuation, numbness, tingling or sluggishness.
5. Supplement the Pain
Prescription medications are not for everyone. Natural supplements are another alternative to treat migraine headaches. They are safe and free of side effects. Magnesium (500 mg) is the most effective. Allow three months for benefits to appear. Other recommended supplements are Coenzyme Q-10 (150 mg), a natural by-product of the body, Riboflavin or vitamin B-2 (400 mg), Butterbur (75 mg), known to cut migraine frequency in half and Feverfew. Purchase supplements online or at your local health food store.
