Useful Remedies for Combating Migraines
A migraine is a headache that occurs due to physiological changes in the brain. It can be severe and is usually more intense than regular headaches. Most people who suffer from migraines complain of an intense pain on one side of the head. However, some people suffer from migraine pain on both sides of the head.
Migraines last for hours and sometimes even days. It is associated with sensitivity to sound, light, and smell. Unfortunately, the experts have not been able to pinpoint the exact cause of migraines. What they do know is that migraines are set off by triggers.
A migraine with aura
Some people experience physiological signs before they have a full-blown migraine. This is known as the aura of a migraine. The signs can include flashing lights, nausea, and tingling. The aura usually starts several minutes before an actual migraine begins. It gives the patient enough time to take any preventive measures.
Remedies for migraines
The remedies for migraines are of two types. The first type is preventive, while the second one includes any treatment that is taken after a migraine begins.
Preventive remedies for migraines
- Learn to cope (LTC) – It is a recent method of treating patients who suffer from migraines.
Abortive remedies for migraines
Abortive remedies are taken once the migraine attack has already hit you. In the case of migraines, this usually means pain-relieving medications. These medicines work best if they are taken as soon as a migraine begins.
- Pain relievers – Several pain relievers can help managing migraines. These include medications like aspirin and ibuprofen. For mild migraines, acetaminophen can be prescribed. Several drugs are specifically sold as migraine relievers. These are recommended only for moderate migraines as they are not as effective with severe migraines. Their unwarranted consumption is strictly not recommended.
- Triptans – These drugs cause the blood vessels in your brain to constrict, thus cutting short the pain. Triptans are available in many forms – nasal sprays, injections, and pills. These can cause side effects like nausea and dizziness.
- Ergots – These drugs are a combination of caffeine and ergotamine and best used for migraines that usually last for more than a couple of days. Since migraines typically occur in patterns, a patient will know the nature and duration of a migraine they suffer from. Ergots work best when they are taken at the start of an attack.
It is critical to understand that you don’t consume any of the prescribed medications without your doctor’s approval.
Migraines can often be debilitating. It is essential that you recognize the patterns of your migraines. This includes the duration as well as the triggers for a migraine. Triggers can be varied, and the most common ones include smoking, lack of sleep, and stress. Once you recognize the patterns, consult with your doctor for the best possible treatment. Since no two migraines are similar, your treatment plan will have to suit you and your lifestyle.