If you've ever had a migraine, you know how it feels when the initial symptoms hit. All you need at that moment is relief from the excruciating pain. That too, quick. And unfortunately, self-cursing doesn’t help. That is when this article might come to your rescue. While most of them are instant remedies, there are a few suggestions of lifestyle changes which can potentially make your headaches manageable.
But before we begin to list down the migraine management tips, it’s important to understand what causes migraine. Researchers have identified possible causes, but they don’t have a definitive explanation. Some potential theories are:
- A CNS disorder, which when gets triggered, may set off a migraine episode.
- Irregularities in the brain’s vascular system may cause migraines.
- A genetic predisposition may cause migraine symptoms to manifest.
- Abnormalities of brain chemicals and nerve pathways may lead to a migraine attack.
As there are no defined causes, migraine treatment too is a tricky thing. Here are some management techniques that can bring relief:
- Keep track
Awareness is empowering. Maintaining a journal about your migraine is usually advised to aid in narrowing down its causes. Note down the activities you’re engaged in when your migraines intensify, how long they usually last, what is that thing that provides comfort during all this, and everything else surrounding the event. Once you know these stimuli (or some of them), avoiding them entirely may not be a good idea as this may lead you to become increasingly sensitive. A better approach would be to learn behavioral management techniques and train your mind to cope up with stress. - Refrain from the obvious trigger foods
Yes, there are certain foods proven to influence the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. These include certain fruits like avocado, banana, and citrus, meats containing nitrates such as bacon and hot dogs, chocolates, peanut butter, onions, foods containing MSG, foods containing tyramine (an amino acid found in red wine) and foods that are fermented or pickled.Try avoiding them. - Acupressure works...
There are several reflex points in the head, neck and shoulder region to relieve a migraine headache. Pinching the webbed skin between your thumb and forefinger can help alleviate the migraine pain too. What’s necessary is to repeat it several times while breathing deep. - And so does a massage
Talking of reflex points, massaging the area in the back of the head, at the base of the skull is shown to reduce a migraine headache significantly. This is where the occipital nerve is situated. - Try Hydrotherapy
Contrasting temperatures is another effective remedy to manage the chaotic condition. Just put your feet in very cold water and place a hot bag on the back of your neck. This will make the blood flow downwards from your head to your feet and provide relief from migraine. - The de-stressing Aromas
Relaxation is an important part of migraine treatment. Lavender, Basil, and Peppermint oils are usually recommended as natural stress busters as they produce a pleasantly soothing odor and cure headaches. You can sprinkle them on your pillow before you sleep, add them to your bathwater, or simply massage your temples with them.
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