Migraine pain is characterized by severe, throbbing headaches that affect one side of your head. Treating migraine headaches can be extremely challenging – particularly when they come frequently.
Some people experience an aura, which is an early warning signal of migraine attacks, around 10-15 minutes prior to experiencing their first migraine attack. An aura may consist of star or zig-zag lines appearing.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Pain Relievers
As soon as a headache or toothache strikes, people typically turn to over-the-counter pain relievers as a solution. But how can you select and take an appropriate drug at just the right time and dose?
OTC medicines may help relieve pain and lower fever, depending on what’s bothering you. Most OTC medicines are generally safe when taken as directed on their labels.
OTC medicines that may help relieve pain and lower fever include acetaminophen (one brand name: Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs (Ibuprofen). Other products contain both types of medication; for example Excedrin contains both types of medicine. If you are liver diseased, have stomach ulcers, or have previously taken blood thinners, consult with a physician or pharmacist prior to taking any over the counter medicines.
Prescription Pain Relievers
Analgesic pain medications known as analgesics work by either reducing inflammation or altering how the brain interprets pain signals, and can take the form of pills, liquids, gels and patches applied directly to your skin. Your physician will select the optimal prescription medicine based on your medical history and other considerations; be sure to follow his or her instructions regarding storage arrangements to keep medicines out of the reach of children – according to 2013 and 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Harm statistics1 10.7 million adults over 12 misused prescription pain relievers last year alone1.
Misuse of medicines, according to NSDUH, means taking an unprescribed medicine or sharing or using someone else’s prescription.
Migraine Triggers
People suffering from migraines can often identify specific triggers that seem to set off attacks. This could include bright lights, loud noises, certain foods (aged cheese, chocolate and caffeine) and even certain odors – although sensitive people may become particularly reactive to chemicals found in processed and cured food products as well as preservatives found therein. Furthermore, migraine pain could also be brought on by environmental factors such as changes in barometric pressure or extreme hot or cold temperatures triggering migraine attacks.
Step one in identifying migraine triggers is keeping a headache diary to identify any similarities in attacks and record any stressors or major events you experience throughout each day. Information such as what you ate or slept may also prove helpful in pinpointing triggers.
Maintain a regular sleep pattern, avoid alcohol and don’t skip meals. If caffeine may be contributing to your symptoms, gradually cut back rather than abruptly stopping all at once.
Migraine Prevention
There are various strategies available to people to prevent migraines. Avoiding known triggers is key, while keeping a headache diary may provide additional insight into what sets off their migraines and which treatments work best to alleviate symptoms.
Light and sound can exacerbate migraine pain, so finding a dark, quiet room to relax in is key. Napping may also provide much-needed respite. Caffeine may offer relief in some people; however, its frequent consumption should be limited in order to stay safe.
People suffering from migraines should try to avoid extremes in humidity and temperature; missing meals or overeating may also trigger them. Antiseizure drugs like topiramate (Qudexy XR, Topamax), valproic acid and beta blockers which relax blood vessels and slow heart rate such as atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL) or nadolol (Corgard) could be useful. In addition to medication prescribed antiseizure devices there are headband-like devices like Relivion which can be controlled remotely with phone app control capabilities.
