Migraines are more than just headaches. They are intense and often debilitating experiences that can disrupt your daily life. While medication can help, there are also a variety of at-home remedies that can provide relief. Fortunately, if you start a search online today, you can learn more about migraine relief.
Diet
Diet can play an important role in providing migraine relief for many people. Certain foods and drinks have been shown to trigger migraines in some individuals, while others may help prevent them. By making simple changes to their diet, individuals may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of their migraine attacks.
One of the most common dietary triggers for migraines is caffeine. While some people find that a small amount of caffeine can help alleviate migraines, others find that it can actually trigger them. Additionally, foods containing the amino acid tyramine, such as aged cheeses and cured meats, can also trigger migraines in some individuals. Other potential triggers include alcohol, chocolate, and artificial sweeteners.
On the other hand, some foods may help prevent migraines. Foods rich in magnesium, such as spinach and almonds, have been shown to help reduce the frequency of migraines. Additionally, incorporating anti-inflammatory foods such as fatty fish, berries, and leafy greens into your diet may also help reduce inflammation associated with migraines.
Cool Compress
Cool compresses are a simple yet effective way to provide relief from the pain and discomfort of migraines. When applied to the head or neck, a cool compress can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain associated with migraines.
To use a cool compress for migraine relief, start by soaking a washcloth or towel in cold water. Wring out any excess water and then apply the compress to your forehead, temples, or the back of your neck. You can also use a bag of frozen vegetables or a cold gel pack wrapped in a towel as a compress. Leave the compress in place for 15- to 20-minutes, or until you start to feel relief.
Cool compresses can be particularly effective when used in combination with other at-home remedies for migraines, such as relaxation techniques or pain-relieving medications. Additionally, some individuals may find that alternating between hot and cold compresses provides the most relief. If you find that cool compresses are helpful for your migraines, consider keeping a few compresses in the freezer or refrigerator for easy use whenever you feel a migraine coming on.
Scalp Massages
Scalp massages can be another effective way to provide relief from the pain and discomfort of migraines. When performed correctly, scalp massages can help increase blood flow to the head and neck, relieve tension in the muscles, and promote relaxation.
To perform a scalp massage for migraine relief, start by finding a quiet and comfortable place to sit or lie down. Using your fingertips, gently massage your scalp in circular motions. Pay particular attention to the base of the skull and the temples, as these areas can be especially tense during a migraine attack. You can also try adding a few drops of lavender or peppermint essential oil to your scalp massage to promote relaxation and further reduce pain.
In addition to providing relief during a migraine attack, regular scalp massages may also help prevent migraines from occurring in the first place. By reducing tension and promoting relaxation in the muscles of the head and neck, scalp massages can help prevent muscle spasms and inflammation that can trigger migraines.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial for overall health and can also provide relief from migraines. Adequate sleep allows the body to repair and rejuvenate, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
To ensure that you’re getting enough sleep, try to establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible. This means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Additionally, try to create a relaxing sleep environment by keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
Retreat to a Dark Room
Dimming the lights can provide migraine relief by reducing the amount of visual stimulation that can trigger or exacerbate migraine symptoms. Bright lights, including fluorescent and LED lights, can cause eyestrain, sensitivity to light, and trigger migraines. In addition, exposure to bright lights can cause the release of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that can worsen migraine symptoms. Dimming the lights can help reduce this visual overload, decrease the risk of triggering migraines, and help alleviate symptoms in those already experiencing an attack.
In addition to dimming the lights, there are other steps you can take to reduce your exposure to bright lights and potentially prevent migraines. For example, wearing sunglasses, especially those with polarized lenses, can help reduce the amount of light that enters your eyes. Additionally, you may want to consider investing in light-blocking curtains or shades to reduce the amount of natural light that enters your home or workspace.
Other Treatment Options
Ubrelvy and Emgality are two prescription medications that can provide migraine relief for those who suffer from frequent or severe migraines.
- Ubrelvy is a newer medication that was approved by the FDA in 2019. It is specifically designed to target the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor, which plays a role in the development of migraines. By blocking this receptor, Ubrelvy can help reduce the severity and duration of a migraine attack.
- Emgality is another medication that targets CGRP, but it is administered via injection rather than orally. It works by binding to CGRP molecules and preventing them from attaching to receptors in the brain, which can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with migraines.
While Ubrelvy and Emgality can be effective in providing migraine relief, they are prescription medications and may not be suitable or accessible for everyone. If you do opt to buy migraine relief medication, it is important to talk to your doctor first to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.