Wanting to know how to stop a migraine is a big deal for those that suffer from it. More than just headaches, migraines cause different symptoms which can be very debilitating and painful. By learning how to stop a migraine, you can save yourself from having to suffer.
Determine first if you do have a migraine headache and what kind of migraine it may be. The usual migraine symptoms are a throbbing pain on your temples as well as pain in one side of the head. This can also be accompanied by other symptoms such as loss or impairment of vision, nausea and even impairment of motor functions.
Once you have established that you do have a migraine, you can take the necessary steps to prevent and alleviate migraines, in other words how to stop a migraine.
Steps on How to Stop a Migraine
Prevention
Prevention can be the best way to stop a migraine. Migraines are often triggered by external factors such as:
- Stress
- Weather Change
- Food Triggers
- Fatigue and hunger
- Hormonal imbalance
You can start by living healthier, eating fresh foods and getting more rest and sleep. Exercise regularly as well.
Food triggers suspected of causing migraines are those foods that are rich in tyramine. Tyramine rich foods are mainly those that have been aged and fermented. This includes ham, sausages, cheese and other similar items. Chocolate and caffeine have also been linked with migraines. Caffeine sensitivity however is very subjective. Some experience migraines from taking too much or withdrawing from caffeine. Stick to fresh ingredients and try to avoid preservatives and additives as much as possible.
To help you keep track of the possible triggers of migraine, keep a migraine diary. Whenever you suffer from a migraine attack, list down what you ate and what was happening to you at that time. This will help you link the causes of your migraines and avoid them in the future.
Ask your doctor about how to stop a migraine using preventive medicine for migraines. Medicines such as beta-blockers (heart medicine), anti depressants and anti seizure medicine have all had good effect with stopping migraines. If your migraines persist even after lifestyle changes then you may want to try these.
Analgesics and Medicine
When migraine attacks do happen, there are also several options for you to take. The primary medicines are analgesics such as NSAIDS (ibuprofen, Naproxen, aspirin, etc.) These help relieve the pain caused by migraines. Triptans can help with dealing with pain and nausea as well. Ergotamines are often used as another option.
Managing Your Migraine
Always consult with your doctor first before undergoing any therapy or medication. Some medicine may have side effects which can also be harmful for you. To help you ease into migraine prevention, take relaxation classes and undergo lifestyle changes.
Migraines can be very painful and can stop you from doing normal every day things. They can also increase the risk of other diseases such as stroke. Knowing how to stop a migraine is very important if you want to live a long, healthy and pain free life.
