What are the recommended treatments for migraine?

Common OTC pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen, can help reduce migraine symptoms when taken early. However, frequent use can lead to rebound headaches.

Ginger may help alleviate nausea and reduce migraine severity. It can be consumed as a tea, in supplements, or freshly grated into meals to promote symptom relief.

Biofeedback therapy teaches individuals to control bodily functions such as muscle tension and heart rate, which can help reduce migraine frequency and severity.

Butterbur and feverfew are two herbal remedies commonly used to prevent migraines. Consult with a healthcare provider before use to ensure safety and appropriate dosing.

Nerve block injections, often targeting the occipital nerve, can provide temporary relief for severe migraines. This procedure is done by a medical professional in a clinical setting.

Triptans, such as sumatriptan and rizatriptan, are prescription medications that help relieve symptoms by narrowing blood vessels in the brain and blocking pain pathways.

Lavender and peppermint oils are known for their calming and analgesic effects. Applying diluted oils to the temples or inhaling the aroma may help relieve mild migraine symptoms.

Acupuncture is a complementary therapy shown to provide relief for some migraine sufferers. It involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to alleviate symptoms.

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) inhibitors, like erenumab and fremanezumab, are a newer class of medications designed to prevent migraines by blocking the CGRP protein.

Meditation and mindfulness practices can lower stress and increase relaxation, helping to prevent migraines by reducing emotional and physical tension.

Regular, low-impact exercise, such as walking or swimming, can reduce stress and improve sleep, potentially reducing migraine frequency. Avoid intense workouts, which may trigger migraines.

Devices like Cefaly or gammaCore deliver mild electrical or magnetic pulses to nerves associated with migraine pain. These FDA-approved, non-invasive devices are a newer treatment option.

Identifying and avoiding trigger foods like caffeine, alcohol, and aged cheeses can help reduce migraine occurrence. Keeping a food diary can aid in identifying specific dietary triggers.

Botox injections have been FDA-approved for chronic migraine prevention. They work by blocking pain pathways and are generally administered every 12 weeks by a healthcare professional.

Beta-blockers, anti-seizure drugs, and antidepressants are often prescribed for chronic migraines to reduce frequency and intensity. These medications are usually taken daily.

Magnesium deficiency has been linked to migraines, so taking magnesium supplements may help reduce frequency, especially for menstrual migraines. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosage.

Dehydration is a common migraine trigger, so staying hydrated and consuming electrolyte-rich beverages may help prevent migraines, especially in hot or dry climates.

Riboflavin has shown some effectiveness in migraine prevention. A daily dose of 400 mg may reduce migraine frequency, though results may take several months to appear.

CBT helps patients manage stress and pain related to migraines by changing thought patterns and reactions, potentially reducing both the frequency and severity of attacks.

Regular sleep, balanced meals, and stress reduction can help manage migraines. Maintaining a consistent daily routine can be particularly effective in reducing frequency.