Home Remedies for Migraine Relief

Migraine is found to be more common in women than in men. It is characterized as a throbbing, pulsating headache usually occurring at one site of the head. Nausea, vomiting, photosensitivity and sensitivity to external stimuli especially to noise are other manifestations of migraine attacks. Headache may worsen during activity. Migraine is sometimes believed to be triggered by food sensitivities. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is among the commonly reported dietary triggers. Some common causes of migraine also include stress, fatigue, lack of sleep, cigarette smoking, lack of food intake, increased sodium intake, both hypertension and hypotension, and family history.

Migraine attacks may be preceded by an aura which is defined as a sign indicating that a migraine will occur. An unusual visual, olfactory, or other sensory experiences are common examples of an aura. When migraine is left untreated, the pain will usually last 4 to 72 hours. It may also last for weeks. It is recommended to seek medical help if the headaches are too severe and happen frequently. Medical consultation is also needed if the headache is associated with physical exertion, visual disturbances, weakness, numbness and paralysis of the upper extremities.

Various associations are available which aim to provide support and information for people who experienced frequent headaches. Some of these include the American Council for Headache Education (ACHE) and the National Headache Foundation (NHF). Simple home remedies can be done to alleviate pain during migraine attacks. Over-the-counter pain medications can help such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen, as well as acetaminophen or paracetamol. However, taking these drugs too often may actually worsen the pain. Some also considers relaxing by lying down and closing the eyes for half an hour to be the most effective treatment for worse headaches. This is due to the fact that sleep is the best way to interrupt the pain cycle.

Another migraines relief is through the use of a cold compress or warm compress whichever is preferred. In most cases, applying an ice pack or towel immersed in cold water over the painful site as soon as possible after the onset of the headache will provide immediate pain relief, approximately within 20 minutes. For mild headaches, imagery or thinking pleasant thoughts may also help since many migraine attacks is brought about by stress and tension. Other home remedies for the management of migraine headaches include the use of chamomile tea, Ginkgo Biloba and vegetable juices such as carrot and fresh grape juice.

Lifestyle modification is also necessary to decrease the frequency of migraine attacks. It is important to avoid unhealthy habits such as smoking, drinking alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, and sleeping late at night. It may also be helpful to keep a headache diary. This will help you pick up the patterns, and identify the factors that are mostly triggering the migraine attacks.