Migraine Relief

Before we start discussing ways in which to relieve a migraine, let's get a brief introduction to migraines.

An Introduction to Migraines

Had a throbbing pain in your head and neck that only affects one half at a time? This isn't just any headache, this is a migraine attack. A migraine attack can plague anyone, from someone who is 10 to someone who is 90. During a migraine attack the blood vessels in the brain start dilating and drawing together. The changes that are occurring in the blood vessels is what is causing the pain. Not many people understand what a migraine is, and not many people have taken the trouble to get themselves properly diagnosed. Some people wonder if migraines are hereditary, the answer to this is not a definitive one. There are chances that migraines are hereditary but it hasn't been proved. Interestingly, migraines plague 20% of the women population and only 6% of the men. Most people, who are prone to migraines, will get an attack before they hit 40! Most often, migraines are triggered off by certain conditions, and by foods like chocolates and cheese.

There are certain typical features that can help you identify whether or not that headache is a migraine or not. Features of a migraine are:

• Headaches lasting from 4 hours to 72 hours.
• Pain on one side of the head and neck.
• Normal activity increases the intensity of the migraine.
• Vomiting and nausea.
• Sensitivity to light and noise.

Migraine Relief

There are some ways to relieve the pain caused by migraines; here are some alternative solutions to medication:

• Grab a coke or coffee or anything with caffeine in it. caffeine helps to constrict the blood vessels in the brain. Also drink lots of water along with it, because dehydration can worsen a migraine attack.
• If possible take a shower or a bath with warm water and press a cold compress to your head at the same time. Also steer clear of light and sound. Give yourself or get a face massage to improve blood circulation.
• Soak your feet in warm water to increase blood circulation and prevent nausea.
• Try herb therapy. Feverfew is a herb that helps relieve you from a migraine. You can use it fresh or take it in capsule form or as a tea additive.
• Go gaga with ginger. Using ginger as a part of your diet will prevent migraines. In case you get a migraine attack, make tea with ginger in it. ginger is a great anti-inflammatory food and pain reliever.
• Peppermint is another option. Using peppermint either internally or externally will help. You can make peppermint tea or use peppermint essential oil mixed with a lotion and massage your head. This is a great way to get instant relief from a migraine.
• If you feel a migraine attack coming on, avoid all foods that can worsen the situation. Foods such as wheat, chocolate, and cheese. Also avoid alcohol and smoking.
• If none of these work for you then take your migraine medication to get relief from migraines.