Migraines can be extremely debilitating and interfere with daily life, yet there are various chronic migraine solutions that may provide some relief from the discomfort.
Prevention medication such as riboflavin (vitamin B2), feverfew extract and magnesium may reduce your number of headache days. Antiseizure drugs like amitriptyline (Elavil) and venlafaxine may also be effective treatments.
1. Cold Packs
Experts remain unclear as to why placing an ice pack on your head during a headache will often soothe its pain. You can purchase reusable gel packs with built-in ice or simply rinse a wash cloth in cold water before applying. In addition, painkillers such as acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen can often help as well from pharmacies.
Studies have demonstrated the efficacy of using neck-cooling devices during migraine attacks to lessen self-reported discomfort. One such study involved 64 participants using either a gel pack chilled to room temperature or an alternative device equipped with an electric cooling pad to reduce self-reported discomfort.
Researchers believe that the gel cap helped by decreasing blood flow to the brain during headache episodes, possibly because ice constricts blood vessels, decreasing neurotransmission of pain signals into the brain.
2. Heating Pads
Migraines can be an incapacitating and disabling condition, often characterized by throbbing pain, light and sound sensitivity and nausea. Migraines may hinder daily activities as well as hinder work performance.
Migraines can be managed in numerous ways, from avoiding trigger foods and beverages to keeping up with an exercise regime or weight loss if necessary. Apps that track migraines may also prove helpful in managing them effectively.
An affordable way to create a heating pad is using an old sock filled with rice. Place it in a microwaveable bag or tie off its top before placing in the microwave for 5-10 minutes until warm – then apply directly onto neck and shoulders for at least 20 minutes of relief.
3. Eye Masks
Sleep masks can help block out light, which is one of the primary triggers for migraine headaches. Masks may also provide comfort to individuals suffering from eye sensitivity or dark circles as it soothes delicate skin around their eyes.
Serum masks offer another solution that pampers and depuffs fine lines, helping improve crow’s feet, dark circles, soothe irritation and reduce puffiness.
There are various medications available to treat migraines, including Botox and CGRP antagonists – which inhibit proteins known to trigger migraines – which may help. Be sure to discuss this option with your healthcare provider to determine what options would work best for you; lifestyle changes can make a huge difference!
4. Ear Plugs
Noise and light can trigger migraines, throbbing hammering headaches. Carry flesh-colored earplugs with you for situations such as movie theaters, concerts or noisy restaurants where an attack could arise.
Instead, try wearing a headband-like device which sends pulses directly to a nerve in your forehead – this treatment method is known as external trigeminal nerve stimulation (Cefaly). Furthermore, FDA approval exists for Cefaly.
Eating healthily, getting enough restful sleep, and remaining hydrated are essential in managing chronic migraine symptoms. Some chronic sufferers find relief with vitamin B2 supplements (like riboflavin). Your physician will also discuss any medication that might be an option for you.
5. Blackout Curtains
Migraine sufferers may find it challenging to obtain enough restful sleep, and studies indicate that an insufficient amount can increase migraine attacks and headaches.
Dark curtains can help reduce light intrusion and help ensure a restful night’s sleep. Blackout curtains block out sunlight as well as artificial sources like lamps and TV screens.
Blinds often leave gaps that let light in around their edges and at the top, offering access to bright light sources. A great solution is to hang two heavy blackout curtains over existing blinds and secure their seams using Velcro straps.
Noise can also exacerbate migraine symptoms. Rubber drawer stoppers can be purchased at most hardware stores to muffle the sound of cabinet slamming, while it is best to steer clear of products such as perfumes and colognes that contain scents which trigger migraine sufferers.
