Best Home Remedy for Migraine – Reversing Your Headache Pain

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Migraine Headaches - Home Remedies

Everyone suffers from a headache at some point. In fact, headaches are a natural part of life. Therefore, they let us know that something is wrong. This is the beauty of headaches. They provide information. The last headache that I had let me know that I need to do my blogging with a 100-watt bulb; not a 45 watt.  Not all headaches are the same.  Extreme headaches are worst. These are Migraines. They are not the end of the world. Let’s turn things around. It’s time to find the best home remedy for migraine.

The Characteristics of a Migraine

Have you ever woken up with a throbbing pain on one side of your head?  Maybe you partied too much the night before. As a result, your head feels detached from your body. You know what I’m talking about. It gets worse day if left untreated. that pain could become moderate to severe. There are several things you can do. The first step is to look for the best home remedy for migraine. There is no reason to suffer.
 
Migraine may affect the quality of your life.  It prevents you from living the life you want to live. You do not have to feel helpless when it comes to managing your migraines. There are many treatments available. A natural home remedy may be the best thing for you. Let’s explore this topic a little more. There is lots to learn.  
 

Migraine can be an Inherited Trait

Anyone any age can experience a migraine headache. The latest theories suggest that a migraine is transmissible. This means that it comes from the genes of your parents.  Research shows that both genetics and environment can lead to a migraine. The good news is that there are treatments for everyone. The best solution for your migraine could be a few steps away.
 

Migraine is a Neurological Condition

Migraine is not your regular headache. It is a neurological condition.  They are often accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound. It starts as a throbbing on one side of the head. If you are having symptoms, have no fear. There are many treatments for this condition.  By the end of this post, you will be an expert on migraine and much more. Hang in there.
 

The Father of Modern Medicine

Have you heard about Hippocrates? He was the father of modern medicine. Did you know he was the greatest physician of his time? Moreover, he was the first to describe the visual symptoms of migraine. His description showed a shining light, usually in the right eye. Followed by excruciating pain.
 

Trepanation – The Barbaric Way of Treating Migraine

Throughout history, theories about the cause of migraine based in superstition. The cures for migraine have been painful and fatal. One of the cures for migraine is Trepanation. This was an earlier method used to treat migraines. Hence, it also worked for epilepsy and mental illness. Historians believed that it released devil spirits trapped in the skull.

Other Migraine Treatments

Bloodletting with leeches:

The patient is cut at the elbow or knee. Leeches attach to the skin to feed on the blood. Modern procedures apply leeches. Leech saliva contains Hirudin. This is an anti-coagulant to prevent blood clots. When the leech bites, it releases a natural anesthetic. That area is numb.

Cauterization with a hot iron:

This is a medical technique. Abnormal growths on the body are burned. This prevents infection. The physician uses electricity or chemicals to close a wound. A piece of heated metal was then applied during surgery or after an injury.
 

Migraine is not Just a Headache.

Migraine is a neurological condition that causes disabling head pain. On average, they occur about once a month. The exact cause of a migraine headache is unknown. They are speculated to be a result of temporary changes in the chemicals, nerves and blood vessels in the brain.Blood Vessels - In Brain

  1. Fifty percent of people have a genetic predisposition to migraines
  2. Ten percent of people progress to chronic migraine.
  3. Migraines can be associated with certain triggers.
  4. Associated triggers:
    • Starting their period (females)
    • Stress
    • Tiredness
    • Certain foods or drinks

There is no cure for Migraine headaches but there many treatments available.

Treatments for Migraine

To reduce symptoms:

  • Painkillers– including over the counter medicines:
  • Paracetamol
  • Ibuprofen
  • Triptans – Medicines that help reverse changes in the brains that cause migraines.
  • Anti-Emetics – often used to help relieve feelings of nausea or being sick.

During an attack, many people find that laying down or sleeping in a dark room can be helpful.

There are Several Types of Migraine

  1. Migraine with aura – they have specific warning signs just before the attack begins, such as seeing flashing lights.
  2. Migraine without aura – the most common type. This can happen without warning.
  3. Migraine aura without headache – (known as a silent migraine) symptoms without headache
  4. Some people experience frequent migraines
  5. Some people have occasional ones.
  6. Years may pass between migraines
  7. The length of time a migraine lasts can vary.

Phases of a Migraine Attack

There are three phases of a migraine:

Prodrome Phase:

This phase can occur hours to days prior to the attack. There is usually a change in mood and energy. Cravings or excessive yawning can be noticed. People sometimes confuse prodrome (premonitory) symptoms with migraine triggers.

Example: A person who craves chocolate may think consuming chocolate triggered the migraine attack.

Note:

Aura: 25-35% of people with migraine have aura. Symptoms of an aura include a visual change with a kaleidoscope-like phenomenon. It lasts from five minutes to an hour or less. The person may experience a tingling sensation, numbness, garbled speech and weakness.Kaleidoscope-like Auira - Migraine Headaches

Headache Phase:

A migraine lasts four-72 hours is untreated. The frequency varies by person. They can occur once in a while or can strike several times a month, Characterized by pain on one or both sides of the head. Pain varies from person to person. Symptoms can be from mild to debilitating. May experience nausea, inability to sleep sensitivity to light sound and smell.

Postdrome or Recovery Phase: Not all persons will suffer in this phase. About 80% will suffer. Symptoms include fatigue, body aches, trouble concentrating and sensitivity to light. Some people do meditation or yoga, drink water and avoid stress in this stage. Maintaining a migraine diary can help people recognize their symptoms before and after each headache.

After a migraine attack, you feel drained. Some people report feeling confused, washed out or elated. Sudden head movement might bring on pain.

Stop Acute Migraine Attacks

Tired of dealing with migraine? Here’s what may work for you. Talk with your Neurologists about:

Tripans:

These medications narrow blood vessels in the brain. Tripans should not be used by people with coronary artery disease, high blood pressure or women who are pregnant. Always consult with your healthcare professional before taking this medication.

Gepants:

This is a new migraine medication. Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) does not narrow the blood vessels in the brain. It targets different neurotransmitters (chemical messengers). So hang in there. Neurotransmitters carry messages to reduce pain within 60 minute

Ditan:

Belongs to a new class of headache medication. It binds to serotonin receptor. It does not constrict blood vessels. No more than one does should be taken within a 24-hour period.

Do you have light sensitivity and eye pain? This is common if you suffer with migraines. Light sensitivity also called photophobia. It occurs more than any other symptom. Light sensitivity includes nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to sound and odor. Up to 80% of people who have migraines have photophobia. Bright lights, sunshine and flashing lights can trigger migraines. Unlike migraines, cluster headaches are not associated with triggers, hormonal changes or stress.
 

What is Light Sensitivity or Photophobia?

Migraine Headache - Light - Sensitivity

There are cells located in the retina in the back surface on the inside of the eye. They help us perceive light and colors. These are intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). They project light to the part of the brain that regulates our sleep and wake cycles. This part of the brain (thalamus) senses pain. This projection is what causes pain to the eye.

Migraine is different for everyone. No two cases are the same. Flashing light can trigger them. So can coffee, alcohol, loud sound, perfumes, lack of sleep and stress.

Questions Your Neurologist May Ask

Physicians or neurologists perform screening before diagnosing for migraine. Afterwards they screen family history, daily routines, and the characteristics of the migraine attack. At some point your doctor may ask questions:

  1. Describe your attacks.
  2. How many each month?
  3. What triggers your migraine?
  4. What are your daily activities??
  5. Is there a family history of migraine

Home Remedies for a Migraine Headache

At the first sign of a migraine, take a deep breath and step away from whatever you are doing. There are several things you can try:

Try a cold pack – Place a cold pack on your forehead or temples.

  1. Ice cubes wrapped in a towel
  2. A bag of frozen vegetables
  3. A cold shower may ease pain.
  4. Aspirin, Tylenol, Excedrin Migraine or Ibuprofen

Lavender Essential Oil:

A European Neurology Research Study examined Lavender. It found that lavender reduces the severity and frequency of migraines. Patients inhaled the scent of lavender for 15 minutes. They greater reduction in migraine pain. Their control group did not inhale lavender. Peppermint and Rosemary may also help reduce pain.

Temperature Therapy:

  1. Use a heating pad or hot compress.
  2. Hot packs and heating pads can relax tense muscles.
  3. Place heating pad on your neck or back of your head.

Other Ways to Divert a Migraine:

  1. Avoid certain foods
  2. Try acupuncture
  3. Sign up for yoga
  4. Try biofeedback
  5. Less screen times
  6. Blue-light blocking glasses
  7. Use green light instead of incandescent light

Note: Reflexology and Massage techniques can relieve migraine headaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How to prevent migraines?

A. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, sleep, meals, stay well hydrated, limit intake of caffeine and alcohol. Avoid possible triggers.

Q. What if a migraine headache lasts longer than three days?

A. Seek medical attention from a neurologist nor head specialist.

Q. How can you prevent future migraines?

A. Prescription medications, newer class of drugs (CGRP) antibodies.

Q. Physician may prescribe anti-seizure medicine

A. Topiramate or Propranolol (used to treat high blood pressure).

Q. Can bright light trigger a migraine attack?

A. Yes. Also, sunlight and flashing lights.

Q. What is the best treatment for light sensitivity and eye pain?

A. Go into a dark room. Wear amber tint sunglasses. Wear FL-41 rose-colored tint.

They block the blue wavelength of light. Get anti-glare computer screens or filters.

Q. Who was notable migraine sufferers through history?

A. Thomas Jefferson, John F. Kennedy, Charles Darwin, Elizabeth Taylor, Elvis Presley, Napoleon Bonaparte, Sigmund Freud, Albert Einstein. The lists go on and on.

The Wrap up Time

Anyone can develop migraines. Children are not exempt. Studies show that women are three times more likely to experience migraines than men. Thirty percent of women will experience migraines in their lifetime. Migraines begin before 40 in more than 90 % of people. More than 39 million Americans suffer from migraines. Only one in three patients talk to their doctor about their headaches.

There are treatments for migraine headaches. One of the best home remedies are temperature therapy (hot and cold packs). Aroma therapy (lavender, Rosemary, Peppermint oils) is second best. Aspirin, Tylenol and Excedrin Migraine can be useful too. However, neurologists can prescribe medication that will be conducive to your specific condition.

Thank you for joining me on this informative migraine journey.

If you liked this post, please share it with your friends. If you have any questions, feel free to add them in your comments below. You can also DM at any time. I will reply ASAP and will do my level best to answer any questions.

Rachele, Founder

w: mybluegenes.com

e: rachele@mybluegenes.com

 

 

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