The presence of these crippling headaches, according to the American Migraine Foundation, is very common and nearly 36 million Americans, especially women, experience it. One in four American households has someone, most likely a woman, who suffers from migraines. These natural home remedies can help prevent migraines and relieve pain during an attack for those who prefer natural and home remedies.
Migraine symptoms and migraine medications
Migraine symptoms include:
- Severe headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Visual disturbances, such as flashing lights or blind spots
- Numbness or tingling in the face or extremities
- Aura (a set of symptoms that may occur before the headache, such as visual disturbances or other neurological symptoms). Keep in mind that not everyone has all of these symptoms, and some people may experience different symptoms.
There are several types of medications that can be used to treat migraines, including:
Pain relievers: over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen can be used to relieve migraine pain.
Triptans: this is a class of drugs designed specifically to treat migraine. They work by narrowing the blood vessels in the brain and preventing the release of certain chemicals that can cause migraine pain. Examples include sumatriptan, rizatriptan and zolmitriptan.
Ergot: these drugs, such as ergotamine and dihydroergotamine, are similar to triptans but are not used as often because of potential side effects.
Anti-nausea medications: these medications can help relieve nausea and vomiting associated with migraines. Examples include prochlorperazine and metoclopramide.
Preventive medications: these medications are taken regularly to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. Examples include beta-blockers, such as propranolol, and anticonvulsants, such as divalproex sodium.
It is important to note that the choice of medication will depend on the frequency and severity of the migraines, as well as the individual’s medical history. It is always best to consult a healthcare professional about the best treatment plan for you.
Risk factors:
- Family history. If you have a family member with migraines, then you have a high chance of developing them too.
- Age. Migraines can start at any age, although the first one often occurs during adolescence. Migraines tend to peak in the 30s and gradually become less severe and less frequent over the following decades.
- Sex. Women are three times more likely to experience migraines. Headaches tend to affect boys more than girls during childhood, but by adolescence and beyond, more girls are affected.
- Hormonal changes. If you’re a woman who gets migraines, you may find that your headaches start just before or just after your period starts
- They may also change during pregnancy or menopause. Migraines generally improve after menopause.
- Some women report that migraine attacks begin during pregnancy or that their attacks worsen. For many, the seizures improved or did not occur until later in the pregnancy. Migraines often return in the postpartum period.
Natural home remedies to prevent migraines and relieve pain during an attack.
Here we will offer you 5 of these remedies.
1. Olive oil
The numerous studies conducted show that olive oil and a fish oil effectively reduce the severity, duration and frequency of regular migraines in teenagers. Their results are successful thanks to the restriction of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, as they create blocks for the hormones that regulate blood clotting. In addition, it allows the regular contraction and relaxation of the walls of the arteries.
Use of olive oil:
- Consume 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil daily, either by adding it to your meals or taking it in supplement form.
- You can also try taking fish oil supplements, as they contain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids that have been shown to reduce the severity, duration and frequency of migraines.
2. Eat more flaxseed
Flax seeds are rich in fiber and omega-3 essential fatty acids, which makes them capable of improving brain function and reducing the risk of heart disease.
According to Wholesomeone, you can add flax seeds to various smoothies, oatmeal, or even mix them with water to reap the benefits. By introducing flaxseed into your diet, the frequency of migraines can be reduced.
Use of flaxseed:
- Incorporate flaxseed into your diet by adding it to smoothies, oatmeal, or other meals.
- Start by consuming 1-2 tablespoons of flaxseed daily and gradually increase the amount as your body gets used to it.
3. Honey
Along with the other benefits of honey, consuming two teaspoons of raw honey during meals can prevent migraine attacks.
FACT’s recommendations are, as soon as you notice the first sign of migraine symptoms, start eating a tablespoon of honey, as it does not need to be digested and is absorbed directly into the bloodstream, which is very important in any effective treatment.
It also has a soothing effect on the stomach and can perfectly cure people who suffer from nausea during a migraine attack.
Use of honey:
- Consume 2 teaspoons of raw honey during meals to prevent migraine attacks.
- If you experience the first sign of migraine symptoms, eat 1 tablespoon of honey immediately as it does not need to be digested and is absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
4. Stretch your neck
One of the factors that cause a migraine can be a muscle tension. So, to prevent a headache before it occurs and relieve the pain, you can stretch for 20 minutes twice a day.
Health.com’s recommendations are to move your chin forward, up, and toward each shoulder and hold each position for five seconds, followed by five seconds of rest.
Another good thing can be done by pressing your palm on your forehead and on each side of your head.
Using your neck stretch:
- Stretch for 20 minutes twice a day to prevent migraines by reducing muscle tension and promoting good blood flow.
- Move your chin forward, up, and toward each shoulder and hold each position for five seconds, followed by five seconds of rest. Another good thing can be done by pressing your palm on your forehead and on each side of your head.
5. Ice and banana peel compress
Many people think that banana peels are nothing more than a rich source of potassium, but the Mayo Clinic recommends preparing the remedy by using it with ice as a cold compress on the head and neck.
You will get the benefits of potassium absorbed directly through the skin by placing a banana peel on your forehead with ice.
Use of ice and banana peel compress:
- Prepare a cold compress by placing a banana peel on your forehead with ice.
- Apply the compress to your head and neck for 10-15 minutes at a time as needed to relieve migraine pain.
6. Stretching the neck
Before starting any stretching exercises, it is important to warm up your muscles by doing some light cardio or dynamic stretching. It’s also important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard. If you feel pain or discomfort during the exercises, stop and rest. It is also recommended that you seek advice from a physiotherapist or medical professional if you have any concerns about your neck or if you experience frequent headaches.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to stretching your neck to prevent migraines:
- Start standing or sitting in a comfortable position with your shoulders relaxed and your back straight.
- Slowly tilt your head forward, bringing your chin toward your chest. Hold this position for 5 seconds, then release.
- Then tilt your head back, looking up at the ceiling. Hold this position for 5 seconds, then release.
- Tilt your head to the left, bringing your left ear toward your left shoulder. Hold this position for 5 seconds, then release.
- Tilt your head to the right, bringing your right ear toward your right shoulder. Hold this position for 5 seconds, then release.
- Roll your shoulders forward and back to release any tension.
- Repeat this stretching routine 2-3 times and rest 5 seconds between each stretch.
It’s important to remember to breathe deeply and slowly throughout all stretches and never push your head beyond its comfortable range of motion.
7. Ginger
- Take ginger supplements or drink ginger tea to relieve migraine pain.
- Add fresh ginger to your meals or make a ginger poultice by rubbing fresh ginger and applying it to your temples or the back of your neck.
Originally published 2017-12-30 01:12:53.
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