According to the World Health Organization, around 1 in 7 people suffer from migraines. A migraine is a neurological disorder that can cause severe headaches.
Migraines can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal changes, lack of sleep, and certain foods. The symptoms of a migraine can be debilitating, including nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, dizziness, and visual disturbances such as auras.
Reduce Stress Levels
Stress is a major trigger of migraines. Try to identify your stressors and find ways to manage them. Consider mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to reduce your stress levels.
Make sure you’re getting enough rest, exercise regularly, and schedule time for hobbies or activities that you enjoy to help manage stress levels in your life.
Keep a Migraine Diary
A migraine diary can be a helpful tool to identify your triggers and track the frequency and severity of your migraines. Record the time of day, foods you ate, and activities you were doing before a migraine occurred.
This information can help you identify patterns or triggers that you can then avoid or manage in the future.
Be Aware of Food Triggers
Sugar, caffeine, alcohol, processed foods, and aged cheeses are common food triggers for migraines. Pay attention to what you eat and how it affects your body.
Consider learning more about the ketogenic diet, which some people have found helpful in reducing the frequency and severity of their migraines.
Get Enough Sleep
Lack of sleep can also trigger migraines. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep every night, and try to establish a consistent sleep schedule. Create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you wind down before bed.
If you have difficulty sleeping, talk to your doctor about possible solutions.
Avoid Environmental Triggers
Bright lights, loud noises, and strong scents can also trigger migraines. Try to avoid these triggers when possible. Use sunglasses outdoors and earplugs in loud environments.
Consider using scent-free products and avoiding strong smells like perfumes and cleaning products.
Consider Supplements
Some people find that certain supplements can be helpful in preventing migraines. Magnesium, riboflavin (vitamin B2), and coenzyme Q10 are commonly recommended for migraine prevention.
Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements to make sure they’re safe for you.
Try Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves placing needles in specific points on the body. Some people find that acupuncture can be helpful in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines.
Talk to your doctor about trying acupuncture for migraine relief.
Prescription Medications
If you have frequent, debilitating migraines, talk to your doctor about prescription medications that may help. There are a variety of medications available that are designed to prevent migraines or treat them once they occur.
Your doctor can help determine which medication is right for you.
Stay Positive
Migraines can be frustrating and debilitating, but it’s important to stay positive and focus on taking care of yourself. Keep a positive mindset and remind yourself that you’re doing everything you can to manage your migraines.
Seek support from loved ones and consider joining a support group for people with migraines.