- Calm Your Surroundings: The last thing you need while experiencing a migraine headache is to be bombarded with lights and sounds. When a migraine strikes, seek shelter in a dark and quiet room, and try to get some sleep if possible.
- Use Hot or Cold Compresses: Both ice and hot packs can reduce pain when applied to the head or neck. Ice packs achieve this effect by numbing the affected area, thereby providing relief. In contrast, hot packs are used in order to loosen tense muscles.
- Pick a Sleep Schedule and Stick to It: Adhering to a regular sleep schedule is always a good idea, but it’s especially useful for those affected by migraines. Each day, try to wake up and go to bed at the same time. If you find yourself feeling tired, avoid napping for more than twenty to thirty minutes at a time; longer naps can make it much more difficult to fall asleep later.
- Eat Smart: Many people experience migraines after consuming certain foods or beverages. Some possible culprits can include certain cheeses, chocolate, caffeine or alcoholic beverages. A food journal can be used to link either foods or drinks to the onset of migraines. If such a relationship appears to exist, try to eliminate the suspected trigger.
- Don’t Forget to Exercise: Migraine symptoms can be aggravated by both anxiety and depression. Regular exercise releases certain chemicals that can mitigate the impact of both of these common mental health problems. Likewise, these same chemicals can block pain signals from reaching the brain.
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