There are many things you can do to help relieve a migraine. The most important thing is not to take any medication that contains caffeine or alcohol, as these will only make your headache worse. You should also avoid smoking and eating foods with strong smells, such as garlic or onions.
You may find it helpful to lie down in a quiet room for 30 minutes until the pain goes away. Try taking some deep breaths and relaxing your muscles. A cold compress on your forehead or neck can sometimes help ease the pain too. If this doesn't work, try drinking something cold or sucking on ice cubes. This may cool the blood vessels in your head and so reduce the swelling.
If you have frequent migraines, talk to your doctor about whether you need to be prescribed preventative medication. This type of medicine works by preventing headaches from happening rather than treating them when they occur. It's best to start taking preventative drugs before you experience an attack – this way, you'll know if it helps.
Your doctor may prescribe a combination of two different types of drug: one to stop the headache coming on, and another to treat it once it has started. The aim is to give you relief within four hours after you've taken the first tablet. Your doctor may recommend that you take a dose of either paracetamol or ibuprofen every day to help prevent migraines. These medications are available over-the-counter (OTC) without a prescription. However, your doctor may advise you to take them more frequently during an attack.
You might want to consider trying alternative therapies such as acupuncture or massage. There isn't enough evidence yet to prove that these treatments work, but some people report feeling better after having them. You could ask your doctor for advice on where to go for treatment.
Some people find that certain foods trigger their migraines. If you're worried about this, keep a diary to record what you eat and drink each day. Then, see your doctor to discuss whether there are any particular triggers for you.
Try to avoid stress as much as possible. Find ways to relax, such as listening to music, reading a book or going for a walk. It's also important to get plenty of sleep. Aim to have between seven and nine hours' sleep a night.
If you often suffer from migraines, you should make sure that you always have some painkillers with you. Take them straightaway if you feel a migraine coming on. It's worth keeping a stock of OTC medications in case you ever need them.
What you eat can affect how you feel. So, it makes sense to think carefully about the food you put into your body. There are several things you can do to help prevent migraines, including:
• Eating regular meals and snacks. Try to eat five or six small meals a day instead of three large ones.
• Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol.
• Avoiding processed foods and sugary drinks.
• Drinking plenty of water.
• Keeping well hydrated.
• Eating foods rich in magnesium. Magnesium is thought to help prevent migraines.
• Getting plenty of exercise.
• Trying relaxation techniques, such as meditation.
• Practicing yoga or tai chi.
• Learning to manage your stress levels.
There are lots of different things you can try to help relieve a migraine. But, unfortunately, there isn't a single cure for migraines. The good news is that most people find that their symptoms improve over time. Some even learn to control them completely.
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