How to Prevent & Relieve Migraine Symptoms Without Drugs
- 1). Relax your muscles. Tension and stress can trigger migraine headaches. To prevent a migraine or stop an existing attack, seek a quiet place to lie down and rest.
- 2). Turn off the lights. Because light sensitivity often accompanies migraine headaches, it's best to rest in a dark place. Shut the blinds or curtains in your bedroom to block sunlight or place a cloth over your eyes.
- 3). Experiment with cold therapy. Use an ice pack (a package of frozen vegetables will do in a pinch) to help relieve migraine pain. Place the pack on your forehead to stop throbbing pain.
- 4). To help identify migraine triggers, keep a record of headaches on a calender. Common triggers include monosodium glutamate (MSG), chocolate, dairy and high-sodium foods. If headaches occur frequently, start a headache journal and record your meals and beverages. Take note of when symptoms develop and temporarily eliminate possible culprits from your diet to see if migraines stop.
- 5). Limit use of perfumes and other scents. If migraines typically develop after applying perfumes or using shower gels, avoid these irritants to see if your condition improves.
- 6). Get enough sleep. Inadequate sleep or fatigue can also bring on migraine headaches. Establish a consistent sleep schedule wherein you fall asleep and wake up at the same time each day. Aim for eight hours of sleep a night.