Migraine symptoms and triggers vary so much from person to person, it is no wonder that various medications have differing degrees of success as well. Not only that but since most of these medications were designed to treat other conditions, the side effects when taking them for migraines can often be unpredictable. It is no wonder that many people are searching for natural remedies for migraines.
If that sounds like something you are interested in, you’ve come to the right place. We’re about to list the top nine natural remedies for migraines. The last one is an all-natural form of care that has been helping patients all across the globe.
More and more migraineurs are investing in gel ice packs that are designed to wrap around the back of the neck. How can this help with migraines? Researchers agree that a lack of blood flow to the brain can be an underlying cause of migraines. Ice reduces inflammation, so the idea is that you are clearing the way for the arteries that run through the neck to bring blood to the brain.
You may have noticed that many over-the-counter pain relievers include caffeine as an ingredient. This is because some studies have shown that caffeine increases blood flow. As a result, it may get sufficient oxygen to the brain to help calm a migraine. Just be careful not to have too much caffeine as this natural remedy for migraines is also a potential trigger.
Once a migraine starts, you will want to avoid strenuous activity as this can make the pulsing headache even worse. However, a regular routine of exercise both improves circulation and reduces pain levels in the body in general according to researchers. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that make you feel good, reduce stress, and lead to more restful sleep.
Speaking of sleep, you need a regular schedule of it, especially if you get migraines. Not getting enough sleep can trigger a migraine and it also affects the body’s response to pain, making migraines more difficult to cope with. Going to bed and waking up at the same times every day can help you to sleep better. It is also important to keep the room dark and quiet, although if quiet is not an option, white noise may work.
There are two particular deficiencies that are often related to migraines – Vitamin B and Magnesium. As a result, some who get migraines have begun taking vitamin B and magnesium supplements. However, there is a caution: you should always consult a physician before starting on a new supplement to ensure it doesn’t interact with any medications you take and to determine the right dosage. For example, too much magnesium can lead to frequent bouts of diarrhea (although just the right dose may not only help migraines but also constipation).
Bright lights and loud sounds can actually trigger migraines. They can also make a migraine worse when a person is in the midst of an attack. Thus, having a dark and quiet place to head to when an episode strikes can be a vital way to perform some self-care at home. Research has actually revealed the importance of avoiding bright lights and loud sounds during a migraine.
The best way to care for a migraine is to avoid one if possible. While some common triggers such as changes in the weather are not avoidable, there are other triggers that you may be able to stay away from. For example, if you are a migraineur, you may benefit from keeping a journal so that you know the surrounding conditions involving the onset of migraines. Some factors may include getting enough sleep, eating on a regular schedule, avoiding foods you have a sensitivity too, and quitting smoking.
Speaking of migraine triggers, stress is one of the big ones. It is, unfortunately, one of the triggers that is tough to avoid in the busy, modern world. However, learning to manage your stress properly may be able to reduce the frequency of migraine occurrence. Some have taken up a relaxing hobby. Others just need a confidant to talk to. The key is to find a positive way to manage stress because there are many negative ways that could actually make migraines worse.
Have you noticed how many natural remedies for migraines have to do with blood flow and the neck? This is not a coincidence. The cervical vertebrae are responsible for facilitating blood flow to the brain. These neck bones have tiny loops of bone called vertebral foramen that provide safe passage for the vertebral arteries. However, a misalignment can affect this free flow of blood. Such misalignments are common following accidents and injuries.
It should not be a surprise then that about 75% of migraine patients experience neck pain either during or before a migraine strikes. If this sounds like you, or if you have a history of head or neck trauma, upper cervical chiropractic may be the natural form of relief you have been searching for. This safe and gentle subspecialty of chiropractic focuses on the top two bones of the spine using precision measurements and adjustment. The results for many have been astounding.
If you are interested in finding out what upper cervical chiropractic can do for you, find a practice in your area using the search feature on this site. You may be a couple of gentle adjustment away from significantly fewer migraines.
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The content and materials provided in this web site are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to supplement or comprise a medical diagnosis or other professional opinion, or to be used in lieu of a consultation with a physician or competent health care professional for medical diagnosis and/or treatment. All content and materials including research papers, case studies and testimonials summarizing patients' responses to care are intended for educational purposes only and do not imply a guarantee of benefit. Individual results may vary, depending upon several factors including age of the patient, severity of the condition, severity of the spinal injury, and duration of time the condition has been present.
