Migraine – Warning signs, preventive treatments and home remedies
Migraines are not regular headaches. They develop gradually but can trigger severe pain, nausea, vomiting, extreme sensitivity to light, and even blurry vision if left unchecked for prolonged periods. It is one of the most common forms of head pain diagnosed in the country. There is no permanent cure, but preventive care can help manage migraine attacks to improve quality of life. Here are crucial signs, symptoms, remedies, and preventive prescriptions for managing migraines.
Three main signs and symptoms of migraines
Migraine aura
Auras are the most commonly observed symptoms of migraine attacks that usually affect a person’s vision. In most cases, people see flashing lights and blind spots as the headache worsens. But for some people, these auras can trigger smell hallucinations. Most people report a smokey or burning scent that is not there but felt due to the aura.
Distinct types of pain
These headaches force the body to perceive pain differently. Migraines develop in the sinus region but can also cause pain in the neck. Changes in blood pressure can also lead to a person developing chills throughout the body. Most people experience a heightened sense of pain triggered by increased sensitivity to light, smells, and sounds. But sometimes, even touching the skin, brushing the hair, or slight temperature changes can trigger pain.
Confusion and sleeplessness
Migraine headaches affect with the body’s sleep cycle as insomnia is one of the main symptoms linked to severe migraine attacks. It can develop early on or arise as a complication in the later stages of migraine attacks. Brain fog, meaning experiencing confusion and struggling with focus or the ability to think, is another harsh sign of migraine headaches.
Preventive prescriptions
Nurtec® ODT is an oral prescription used for treating acute migraine attacks. Nurtec’s fast-action formula treats existing pain and prevents another attack for up to 48 hours.
Advil is an alternative option proven to provide relief from symptoms like nausea and light sensitivity.
Quilipta™, on the other hand, is commonly suggested to manage episodic migraine attacks among those who develop severe headaches.
Home remedies for treating migraine
Mild to moderate symptoms of migraine can be managed at home with the following natural remedies.
Lemon water
Citrus-rich fruits help speed up the digestion process and boost immunity, allowing the body to subdue and counter any signs of migraine.
Coffee and tea
Caffeine found in coffee and tea can help counter inflammation. It helps constrict the blood vessels and prevents headaches from developing for longer periods. Herbal teas like ginger tea and peppermint tea can also soothe headaches.
Fresh juice
Carrots, spinach, ginger, celery, broccoli, and kale, are rich sources of beta carotene-rich antioxidants. They can be used with other green veggies to make smoothies. Carrot spinach juice or carrot ginger juices can also supplement essential B vitamins to prevent any nutritional deficiencies from triggering a migraine attack.