Migraine patients can find relief from applying ice packs directly to their head and neck, and anti-sickness drugs like prochlorperazine and domperidone may provide some much-needed respite from nausea – another frequent migraine symptom.
Simple painkillers such as ibuprofen, paracetamol and aspirin may help ease migraine discomfort. Avoid foods known to exacerbate migraine symptoms such as aged cheese, processed meats and anything containing monosodium glutamate (MSG).
Over-the-Counter Products
Migraine is a neurological condition characterized by debilitating head pain. Migraines can be treated or prevented using medications, with various over-the-counter remedies serving as first-line remedies such as acetaminophen, four nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), seven triptans, two NSAID-triptan combinations and dihydroergotamine all being available over-the-counter as first line treatments.
Most over-the-counter remedies used to relieve headache and migraine symptoms typically contain either acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen as active ingredients; some products combine multiple active components into one pill (Excedrin Migraine has both). When taken excessively frequently however, such OTC medicines can lead to something known as medication overuse headache.
Not taking these medicines according to their directions may make headaches worse, causing more severe attacks of migraine and headaches. If this occurs, one should speak to their physician regarding other means to manage or prevent migraine attacks or attacks; some supplements and nutraceuticals such as magnesium, riboflavin, and co-enzyme Q10 have evidence supporting their use against migraine. These should always be discussed prior to beginning regular usage.
Over-the-Counter Medicines
There are various over-the-counter medicines that may help treat migraines. Most contain aspirin or acetaminophen, which work by acting directly on your body’s chemical systems to relieve discomfort. Other products contain caffeine to narrow blood vessels and further enhance effectiveness; Excedrin Migraine, Menstrual, and Tension Headache are examples of such combinations containing aspirin/acetaminophen/caffeine.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, may provide another source of migraine pain relief. These NSAIDs work by inhibiting enzymes called cyclooxygenase 1 and 2, thus reducing inflammation and relieving discomfort.
Some individuals also find relief with anti-nausea medications like ondansetron (Zofran) or prochlorperazine (Compazine), but overuse can cause medication-overuse headaches that are more painful and harder to treat than traditional migraines. If this medication is being taken frequently, make an appointment with your physician so they can discuss other possible treatment solutions.
Home Remedies
Migraines can be hard to manage without medications. While you can always visit your physician or pharmacy, other methods can also be employed at home to ease symptoms and help to prevent future headaches.
Home remedies may help ease migraine symptoms, including using ice packs on your head or neck, taking hot showers, and taking herbal supplements. Acupuncture and acupressure (where pressure is applied to specific points on the body) have also proven helpful for relieving headaches.
If migraines are an issue for you, identify what triggers them and avoid them. Common culprits include red wine, aged cheese and cured meats; bright lights; staying at high altitudes; and strong odors. Research also links magnesium deficiency and migraines closely, so taking daily magnesium supplements could also prove helpful. Furthermore, regular physical activity releases chemicals which block pain signals in the brain which could help alleviate your migraine symptoms.
Emergency Care
Migraine headaches can be debilitating and life-altering experiences that cause nausea, vomiting and extreme light and sound sensitivity. Sometimes preceded by visual changes known as auras that last from four hours to three days in length – often sending sufferers straight to emergency care.
For effective migraine management, speak to your physician about changes to your diet and lifestyle. Consider keeping a journal to identify triggers so you can avoid them; certain foods and beverages, such as riboflavin (vitamin B2), magnesium, butterbur (butterbur), co-enzyme Q10 and feverfew may help. Also keep regular exercising schedule and sleep patterns, and drink lots of water throughout the day in order to remain hydrated.
If your migraines are severe and resistant to home rescue medications, consult your physician. They may provide pain-relieving medication during an attack and a preventive migraine medication regimen as a daily preventative. A CT scan might also be performed to identify possible sources of pain like an infection, tumor or brain bleed.
