Four Self-Help Tips for Migraine Sufferers.

If you suffer from migraines, you’ll understand how much of an adverse impact they can have on your day-to-day life. As well as head pain, you may also experience other debilitating symptoms such as nausea, problems with your vision and sensitivity to noise and light. Luckily, with a few simple self-help measures, combined with medication, you may be able to keep these painful symptoms under control. Here are four self-help tips for migraine sufferers.

1. Use pain relief medication

While medication is not the complete picture when it comes to treating migraines, it is one of the most effective ways to stave off the pain at home. There are various types of treatments that can be used to help headaches, including over the counter painkillers, prescription-only treatments like triptans, and anti-emetics for symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. You don’t necessarily have to make a trip out to see a medical professional either. Reputable online healthcare clinics provide prescription medication for migraines and deliver it straight to your front door.

2. Find a dark, quiet room

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When a migraine strikes, there are certain self-care strategies you can do to lessen the intensity of the attack. For example, as soon as you notice symptoms, stop any activities you’re doing and try to find a quiet, dimly lit environment. If you can, go to sleep or have a short rest while lying or sitting down. You can also try using hot and cold compression on your head to relieve some of the tension.

3. Keep your stress levels in check

Stress is a well-known trigger of migraines. Taking the time to relax - whether it’s doing yoga, practising deep breathing exercises or having a massage - can help to minimise your stress levels and ease any pain. It is also well documented that doing regular exercise can lessen the frequency and severity of headaches in some people by releasing mood-boosting endorphins and reducing pent-up pressure.

4. Watch what you eat and drink

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While there is no established diet plan to help migraine sufferers, there are certain foods and drinks you can avoid to reduce your chances of an attack. For example, alcohol, caffeine, cheese and chocolate have all been linked to an increased risk of headaches. Eating well-balanced meals at the same time every day can also help, as can staying hydrated at all times. If you suspect that a certain food is acting as a trigger, keeping a food diary may help you to identify any potential culprits and cut them out.

Remember, you may have to try a few different techniques to find one that works for you. However, by following self-help tips like these, you can increase the likelihood of easing your symptoms, getting back to enjoying your normal everyday routines and improving your quality of life.

Jada x