Best Ways to Combat Migraines For Good

 


There isn't a cure for migraines, but there are things you can do to manage the pain and reduce your risk of future attacks.

One way is to find out what triggers your migraines and avoid it. That could mean staying away from certain foods, beverages and odors. Bright lights and loud noises can also trigger or aggravate an attack.

1. Drink Plenty of Water


Dehydration is one of the most common migraine triggers.

Increasing your water intake is one of the best ways to combat migraines for good. It helps keep your body temperature stable, lubricates and cushions joints, protects the spine, and gets rid of waste through urination and perspiration.

How much you need to drink varies by body size, health, activity level and the weather (temperature and humidity). Experts recommend 8 glasses of liquid for everyone.

If you find it hard to drink enough water, try adding fruit to your daily water. This tastier alternative can help you avoid the dehydration that might lead to a migraine attack.

2. Ice Packs

If you suffer from migraines, ice packs may be a good addition to your arsenal of headache prevention and treatment methods. Experts believe cold therapy works by constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation, which can alleviate pain.

Several studies have found that applying ice packs to the neck can help reduce pain in migraines. One study found that a frozen neck wrap held over the carotid artery significantly reduced participants’ migraine symptoms.

There are a variety of options to choose from, including hats and compression wraps that keep the cold pack in place while you work, play or sleep. Some are reusable, hands-free and easy to take off and put back on, while others are made of high-quality material that won't leak. Brands also often offer guarantees on their products so that you can buy with confidence and know you're getting a product that will work for years to come.

3. Relaxation Techniques

Stress is one of the most common headache triggers, and relaxation techniques can help you cope with it. Relaxation techniques can also improve your overall quality of life and make you less prone to migraine attacks.

Deep, deliberate breathing can relieve stress and tension in your body and brain. Breathing slowly increases oxygen to your brain and removes carbon dioxide, helping to reduce inflammation that can cause migraines.

Progressive muscle relaxation, or PMR, is a well-known stress management technique that works by systematically relaxing muscles throughout your body. This practice is a great way to relieve the tension in your neck and back muscles that can lead to migraine pain.

Relaxation training is often a series of sessions with an experienced therapist in a clinic office, usually a psychologist or psychiatrist. These sessions will teach you how to achieve a state of deep relaxation in only a few minutes.

4. Caffeine

Caffeine is a natural chemical that can have many positive effects. It is a stimulant that works by stimulating the central nervous system and heart.

It is found naturally in coffee, cocoa, tea, cola, and over 60 other products. It has been used for years for a variety of health and wellness benefits.

However, caffeine is not safe for everyone and can cause side effects. It is especially dangerous for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

A healthy adult should not drink more than 400 milligrams (mg) of caffeine per day, which is equivalent to about four cups of coffee. It is a good idea to speak with your doctor about what you can do to reduce the amount of caffeine you consume.

People with migraine who use a lot of caffeine might want to consider eliminating it for a few months to see if it helps. It is also important to talk with your doctor about other treatments that might be better for you.

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