Migraines

A migraine can be debilitating. It can cause extreme pain, nausea and sensitivity to sound and light. Many people with severe headaches may believe that they are experiencing a migraine, but a migraine is different in the signs and severity of symptoms it presents. Keep reading to find out more about migraines and how to treat them.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms associated with migraines include:

• Commonly a migraine has four stages: prodrome, aura, headache and post-drome.
• Pain on one or both sides of the head
• Throbbing pain
• Sensitivity to light, smell, sound and touch
• Nausea
• Blurred vision
• Vomiting
• Weakness

Diagnosis

If you suspect you may be suffering from migraines you should keep a journal of your symptoms. You should include how often your migraines occur and what type of treatment seems to work. Schedule an appointment with your doctor and discuss your symptoms. Your doctor may ask you additional questions and perform certain medical tests to rule out any other problems.

Causes

The exact cause of migraines isn’t quite known, but genetics and environmental factors seem to be part of the cause. Your doctor may want help determine possible triggers that may cause a migraine. These triggers may include hormonal changes, medications, certain foods, alcohol use, stress, sleep disturbances, environmental changes and more.

Treatment

There are many different ways that migraines can be treated. The type of treatment that works for one patient may not work for another. Some of the most common migraine treatments include:

• Pain relieving medications
  • Many pain relieving medications are available at the pharmacy without a prescription. These are availalbe over the counter and are intended for low intensity migraines or other aches and pains.
• Preventative medications
  • Preventative medications are often prescribed for people who suffer from frequent migraines. These medications may be taken on a daily basis to reduce the amount of migraines a person has.
• Prescription medications
  • Many doctors will prescribe medications to help treat migraines and their symptoms. These medications may include:
    • Triptan medications
    • Anti-inflammatory medications
    • Antidepressant medications
• Acupuncture
  • Acupuncture is a type of treatment that can help to relieve the symptoms associated with migraines including nausea and pain.  During acupuncture a certified practitioner will place tiny needles into areas of the body to relieve symptoms.
• Relaxation techniques
  • Relaxation techniques can help to alleviate stress allowing you to relax. This can help to get rid of your migraine symptoms. Relaxation CDs, deep breathing exercises, yoga videos and more can all help to relax you.
• Vitamins
  • Taking vitamins that are recommended by your doctor can help feed your body the nutrients it needs to be healthy and strong.
• Massage therapy
  • Massage therapy can help to relax tight muscles, alleviate pressure, and allow the mind to calm. There are many different types of massage tools that can help you to feel better in the comfort of your own home including handheld body massagers, massaging backrests, muscle rub ointments and more.
• Epsom salt baths
  • Epsom salt baths can help you to unwind. They can also promote circulation which can help you to feel better sooner.
• Cold compress
  • A cold compress can help you to numb your pain. There are many types of cold compresses to choose from including scented options, gel face masks or heating/cooling options.
• Sleep mask
  • A sleep mask can help your eyes to be protected from the light when you are experiencing a migraine.  They can also be worn to help promote sleep.
• Essential oils
  • Essential oils can help the body to relax and the mind to find peace. This can allow for the symptoms of a migraine to dissipate and resolve.

The right treatment for your migraine may take patience to find but once you do it will be well worth it. Once you know what makes you feel better makes sure to have it on hand for times when a migraine might hit.