Migraine headache can be a debilitating and painful condition that can severely impact a person’s quality of life. While there is no cure, understanding the triggers and managing the symptoms can help to minimize the effects of the condition. In this post, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of migraines, potential triggers, and ways to manage the condition to reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks. We will also discuss potential treatments that can be used to help prevent future episodes. With the right strategies, those suffering from migraines can take back control of their life and live without the fear and pain of this condition.
What Is Migraine Headache?
It is a recurrent throbbing headache that typically affects one side of the head and is often accompanied by nausea and disturbed vision. Migraine is also known as “sick headache” because nausea and vomiting occasionally accompany the excruciating pain which lasts for as long as three days. Migraine headache is also known as sick headache (common English), adhasisi / ardhkapari (Hindi), ardhasisi / ardhshishi (Marathi), orrait talaivali (Tamil), Maigren (Telugu), migraine (Chinese), migrana (Spanish), enxaqueca (Portuguese), maigrena (Bengali), migren (Russian), Migrain (Indonesian). It can be defined as a paroxysmal affection, accompanied by severe headache, generally on one side of the head and associated with disorders of the digestion, the liver and the vision.
Common Symptoms
Migraine usually gives warning before it strikes: black spots or a brilliant zig-zag line appears before the eyes or the patient has blurring of vision or has part of his vision blanked out. When the headache occurs, the patient may feel tingling, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg. It usually occurs when a person is under great mental tension or has suddenly got over that state. Migraine sufferers have what is known as a “migrainous personality”. They are compulsive workers and perfectionists, who feel that they have to do everything right away. When they complete a task, they are suddenly laid down from a state of temporary tension to a feeling of utmost relief. Then comes the migraine. It is a purely physiological process. The head and neck muscles, reacting to continuous stress, become overworked. The tightened muscles squeeze the arteries and reduce blood flow. When a person relaxes suddenly, the constricted muscles expand, stretching the walls of the blood-vessel. With every heart beat, the blood being pushed through this vessels expands them further and causes incredible pain.
Root Causes
Doctors aren’t sure what causes migraines, but they suspect an association with abnormal constriction and dilation of the arteries that supply blood to the brain. The problem tends to run in families. There are many possible triggers, including sensitivities to foods or food additives, stress, hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, oral contraceptives, caffeine withdrawal, changes in the weather or season, bright lights, and odors. Migraines are more common in women than in men. It’s easier to prevent a migraine than it is to treat one. Try some techniques explained for you to get quick relief.
Migraine Headache Home Remedies for Quick Relief
What helps a migraine headache best? Is there any herbal remedies for migraine headaches that works naturally with no side effects? Is there any alternative migraines treatments that really works? We hope your all the questions will end up here. Here are some new, natural, herbal home remedies that truly works with no side effects.
- Ginger + Feverfew: Treat it with natural herbs. Bring the water to a boil. Add the ginger and simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the feverfew leaves. Cover and steep for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain out the ginger and fever few. Stir in honey to taste, and serve hot.
- Onion: Treat a migraine with an onion compress placed on the forehead. Slice fresh onions and place on a clean cotton. Wrap into a thin parcel to make the compress. Similarly, a compress of sliced raw potatoes, sprinkled with pepper applied to the forehead for an hour is said to work very well to hold off a migraine as well.
- Banana: Acid reflux can be reason for migraine. Certain individuals get migraines at midday, which then subside later in the evening. For such individuals, try this preventive method. It may sound too simple, but it is effective. First thing in the morning, take 1 ripe banana. Peel it, chop it into pieces, and add 1 teaspoon warm ghee, 1 teaspoon date sugar, and a pinch of cardamom on top. This is delicious, and it will help to reduce pitta and prevent a headache from arising.
- Indian Ayurveda Formula: Prepare a mixture with shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) 5 parts, brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) 4 parts, jatamamsi (Spikenard) 3 parts and musta (Cyperus rotundus) 3 parts. Take ½ teaspoon twice a day, morning and evening, after breakfast and dinner, with a little lukewarm water. This formula is designed to pacify the aggravated pitta* and help relieve migraine headaches. Acidity can be the main reason for migraine headache.
- Brahmi: Relieve the pain with natural herb. Putting about 5 drops of warm brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) ghee (Clarified butter) in each nostril will help relieve the pain.
- Sesame Seed + False Black Pepper: This makes effective forehead poultice. Grind vavding (Embelia ribes / False Black Pepper) and sesame seed with milk and apply this paste on forehead to stop migraine headache.
- Khoya: This is a fast and easy home remedy. Mix sugar in milk khoya (Khoa) and eat to stop migraine headache quickly.
- Asafoetida: Mix asafoetida in water and put few drops in each nostrils to get little relief in migraine headache.
- Ritha: Soak 4 ritha (Sapindus) overnight. In the morning take this water and put 4-5 drops into nose. This will start secreting extra liquid from nose. Let this liquid come out and after some time put 4-5 drops of ghee (Clarified butter) in nose. This helps to eliminate chances of trigger.
- Dry Ginger: Levigate dried ginger with water and put few drops in a nostril opposite side of as that of headache. This homemade paste helps to soothe pain.
- Grapes: Drink juice of ripe sweet grapes.
- Cabbage: Grind cabbage. Put this paste in soft cotton cloth and tie it around forehead. Once its dried change the paste. You may do this anytime day or night.
- Lemon: Grind lemon pieces and apply this paste on forehead for migraine headache.
- Cayenne Pepper: Folk remedy that works as quick sniff cure. At the first sign of migraine headache, dip a toothpick in Cayenne Pepper and sniff in each nostril.
- Vegetable Juice: Take 1 and 1/2 cup of spinach juice, 2 cups of carrot juice and finish it by drinking after some interval of time. OR Take 3 cups of beet root juice, 3 cups of cucumber juice, 4 cups of carrot juice. Mix all 3 juices and finish it by drinking after some interval of time.
- Ginger: Crush ginger and mix it with jaggery. Drain it with cotton cloth and put drained liquid in nose.
Tips and Tricks to Keep Migraine Away Permanently
- Stay hydrated. Drink water or any other beverage without dairy or caffeine. Dehydration can lead to headache.
- Don’t skip meals – an empty stomach can trigger a migraine. Do eat a healthy, balanced diet low in fats. Doctors have seen a reduction in migraines when fats are reduced in the diet.
- Take a nap. Lie down in a quiet place and get some shut-eye. Sleep can be the best medicine for a headache. Sleep deprivation increases pain sensitivity. People with migraines report more insomnia than do people without these headaches. Increased sleep might help manage the condition. Chronic migraine sufferers who get more sleep, experienced a significant reduction in headache frequency and intensity.
- Tame stress. Stress overload contributes to tension and migraine headaches. We can all learn to better cope. Stress management therapies can significantly reduce headaches.
- When the sun rises, its hot, sharp, penetrating rays increase pitta* in the cardiovascular system and cause the dilation of the blood vessels in the brain, which results in the painful headaches. So it is important to avoid direct exposure to the sun, and if you do go out in the sun, wear a hat.
- A person having migraines should do the Moon Salutation Yoga posture. Helpful yoga postures include the Hidden Lotus, Boat pose, Bow pose, Spinal Twist, Palm Tree pose, and Standing on the Toes.
- When a headache strikes, one should stay on one’s feet in the daytime and do simple chores which do not require too much concentration or walk, move around and get some fresh air. The best remedy to prevent headaches is to build up physical resistance through proper nutrition, exercise and constructive thinking.
*Pitta: According to Ayurveda in our bodies there are three doshas or humors govern our psychobiological functioning – those are vata, pitta, kapha. These 3 doshas are present in every cell, tissue, and organ. When in balance, they create health. When out of balance, they are the cause of disease. Pitta governs all the biochemical changes that take place within our bodies, regulating digestion, absorption, assimilation, and body temperature. From the standpoint of modern biology, pitta comprises the enzymes and amino acids that play a major role in metabolism. Thus pitta (when in balance) promotes intelligence and understanding and is crucial in learning. Out-of-balance pitta may arouse fiery emotions such as frustration, anger, hatred, criticism, and jealousy. Pitta is hot, sharp, light, oily, liquid, pungent, sour, and spreading.
FAQs.
Q. Why do migraines occur?
Migraines occur due to a combination of environmental, genetic, and hormonal factors. Common triggers include certain foods, stress, hormonal changes, lack of sleep, bright lights, certain medications, and certain smells.
Q. How is a migraine differentiated from the usual headache?
Migraines are a more severe type of headache than a usual headache. Migraines can cause intense throbbing or pulsing pain that may last for hours or even days and be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. A usual headache is just a headache that is not as severe and does not last as long.
Q. What are migraine symptoms? What does it feel like to have a migraine?
Common migraine symptoms include:
- Headache pain that is throbbing or pulsating
- Sensitivity to light, sound and smell
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
Q. How do migraines affect the brain?
Migraines affect the brain in a variety of ways, including changes to brain cells, inflammation, and the release of certain chemicals. During a migraine, changes in the brain can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light, sound, and smell. The exact cause of migraines is not known, but it is believed to be related to the brain’s complex network of nerves and chemicals.
Q. What should I eat when I have a migraine?
It is important to focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods when dealing with migraines. Avoiding processed foods and additives like MSG, sulfites, and artificial sweeteners can help reduce migraine symptoms. Foods that are known to be migraine-friendly include:
- Oatmeal
- Yogurt
- Avocado
- Bananas
- Salmon
- Leafy greens
- Almonds
- Chia seeds
- Ginger
- Turmeric
- Dark chocolate
- Cherries
- Green tea
Q. Is migraine a serious problem?
Migraine can be a serious problem, particularly for those who experience frequent and severe migraines. Severe migraines can interfere with daily activities and can have long-term effects on physical and mental health. Migraines can be debilitating and can interfere with daily life, work, and social activities. They can also be associated with other medical problems such as stroke, depression, anxiety, and tension-type headaches. Treatment with medications, lifestyle changes, and other therapies can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Migraine sufferers should speak to their healthcare provider about appropriate treatment options to help manage symptoms.
Q. How does caffeine help with migraines?
Caffeine is believed to help reduce the severity and duration of migraine headaches. It can narrow blood vessels, which may reduce the inflammation that causes migraine pain. Caffeine also acts as a mild pain reliever and may boost the effect of other pain relievers. Studies have shown that combining caffeine with a medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen can provide greater relief than either substance alone. However, it is important to note that too much caffeine can also cause headaches, so it is important to monitor your caffeine intake.
Q. Are migraines genetic?
Yes, migraines are thought to have a genetic component. Research suggests that up to 90% of people who experience migraines have a family history of them.
Q. Can CBD oil help migraines?
CBD oil has shown some potential in helping to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches. However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness. In the meantime, many people have found relief from their migraine symptoms with CBD oil, so it’s worth trying if you suffer from migraines.
Q. What is migraine?
Migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent severe headaches, usually on one side of the head. It is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light, sound and smell. Migraines can last from a few hours to several days and have a wide range of severity.
Q. What are the 9 types of migraines?
- Migraine with aura
- Migraine without aura
- Chronic migraine
- Hemiplegic migraine
- Vestibular migraine
- Basilar-type migraine
- Ophthalmoplegic migraine
- Retinal migraine
- Status migraine
Q. Are there any foods I need to eat or to avoid in order to minimize migraines?
In general, it is best to avoid foods and drinks that are high in tyramine, caffeine, and nitrates, as these have been linked to triggering migraines. It is also important to eat regularly, as skipping meals can cause blood sugar fluctuations that can trigger migraines. Foods that are rich in magnesium, such as leafy green vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, can help to reduce migraine frequency and intensity. Eating foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, and walnuts, can also reduce inflammation and help to reduce the risk of migraines. Furthermore, staying well hydrated is important in order to reduce the risk of migraines.
Q. How did you treat your migraine headaches?
I treated my migraine headaches with medications prescribed by my doctor, such as ibuprofen, triptans, or anti-nausea medications. I also used lifestyle strategies such as getting adequate sleep, managing stress, and avoiding triggers such as certain foods, bright lights, and strong smells. I also tried to stay hydrated, as dehydration can be a trigger for migraines.
Q. Is migraine a severe disease?
Migraine is a serious neurological disorder that can cause severe, disabling symptoms. It is not life-threatening, but it can significantly affect quality of life. It can also cause long-term complications, including depression and anxiety.
Q. What’s the difference between a migraine and a cluster headache?
A migraine is a type of headache that is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days and can be triggered by a number of factors. A cluster headache is a type of headache that usually occurs in cycles or clusters, lasting anywhere from 15 minutes to three hours. It is usually accompanied by a burning or piercing pain that is localized on one side of the head. Cluster headaches are very intense and can be associated with tearing or redness of the eyes, nasal congestion, and a drooping eyelid.
Q. How do you calm a migraine naturally?
- Identify Your Triggers: Keeping a diary of your activities, foods, and other factors can help identify what triggers your migraines.
- Get Regular Exercise: Regular exercise can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: Eating a healthy diet that is low in processed foods can help reduce the frequency of migraines.
- Reduce Stress: Stress can trigger a migraine, so finding ways to reduce stress can help.
- Avoid Known Triggers: Avoiding foods, smells, and activities that trigger migraine headaches can help reduce the frequency and severity of them.
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can cause migraines, so it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Avoid Caffeine: Reducing your intake of caffeine can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
- Get Enough Sleep: Getting enough sleep every night can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, yoga, and other relaxation techniques.
Q. Which are the best yogas for a migraine?
- Baddha Konasana (Bound Angle Pose)
- Viparita Karani (Legs Up the Wall Pose)
- Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Facing Dog Pose)
- Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend Pose)
- Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)
- Balasana (Child’s Pose)
- Shavasana (Corpse Pose)
- Marjariasana (Cat-Cow Pose)
- Padmasana (Lotus Pose)
- Sukhasana (Easy Pose)
Q. What is the Ayurvedic treatment for migraine?
Ayurveda is an ancient form of holistic health care that has been helping people with migraines for centuries. Ayurvedic treatments for migraines focus on restoring balance to the body and mind. This includes lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and stress reduction. Herbal remedies may also be recommended to help alleviate the symptoms of migraines. These remedies can include Ayurvedic herbs such as Brahmi, Ginkgo biloba, and Ashwagandha, as well as essential oils like lavender and peppermint. Additionally, specialized massage techniques, meditation, and yoga can be used to help reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing.