Migraines affect around 39 million people in the U.S, proof that this neurological disease is common.
Perhaps you suffer from migraines and are unsure how to deal with them. Sound familiar? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Here are 15 useful tips on handling migraines.
- Create a Calm Environment
One of the best ways to reduce symptoms is to create a calming environment. It’s wise to turn off the lights because migraines increase your sensitivity to light so relax in a dark, quiet room. You can even invest in blackout curtains if you’re resting in the day.
- Prioritize Sleep
To relieve pressure and migraine pain, establish regular sleeping hours so you’re getting sufficient shut-eye. If you nap during the day, make sure they’re under 30 minutes so it doesn’t affect your rest. Can’t sleep? Then soak in a warm bath, read, or listen to calming music.
- Regularly Exercise
Those after natural pain relief should exercise regularly. This is because your body releases endorphins that block pain signals to your brain. Plus, maintaining a healthy diet and weight helps manage migraines.
- Use a Cold Pack
Consider using temperature therapy by placing a cold pack on your forehead. Wrap ice cubes in a towel and place it on your head for 15 minutes. It should ease the tension.
- Try a Heat Pack
Another form of migraine therapy is to use a heat pack. Use a warm compress, take a steamy shower, or soak in the bath. The temperature rise eases the tension of tight muscles that could cause migraine pain.
- Avoid Chewing
Chewing can also hurt your head so avoid crunchy foods and take small bites. If you grind your teeth at night, consider getting a mouthguard. This may contribute to your headaches.
- Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water so you’re hydrated. Dehydration can worsen your headache or bring on a migraine. To combat this, drink eight 8 ounces of water a day.
- Drink Caffeine
Have a cup of tea, coffee, or fluid with caffeine in it. This may ease your migraine if you take small doses. Otherwise, you may have caffeine withdrawal systems.
- Eat Ginger
Ginger eases migraines, almost as well as an over-the-counter medication. Try a supplement or brew ginger tea. Or consider adding it to your meals.
- Wear Sunglasses
Light is painful if you’re suffering from migraines. If you can’t dim the brightness then wear sunglasses. This will ease the pain.
- Avoid Stress
One of the biggest triggers for migraines is stress. Instead, welcome calm by streamlining a busy schedule and enjoy the weekends. But even if you’re stressed at work and relax on the weekends, that shift causes migraines too.
That’s How to Avoid Migraines
Now you know how to relieve migraines.
Get enough sleep, de-stress, and stay hydrated. When you have a migraine, go somewhere dark to help calm your migraine. Good luck!
Did you find this helpful? Then check out our articles on everything from Technology to Health.