• Migraines

How to Get Rid of a Migraine​

Migraines can be incredibly disruptive, affecting everything from your day-to-day routine to your overall quality of life. Finding effective relief is key, and fortunately, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

Whether it’s prescription medication, over-the-counter treatments, or natural remedies, there’s something for everyone when it comes to managing migraines. Let’s explore the variety of treatments that can help you feel better.

Prescription Migraine Medications

Migraine medications are typically categorized into two main groups: acute treatments for immediate relief and preventive treatments to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. 

Triptans are one of the most common prescription medications for acute migraine attacks. These medications work by constricting blood vessels around the brain and blocking pain pathways. Popular triptans include sumatriptan, rizatriptan, and zolmitriptan.

Another class of medications used for migraine relief are CGRP inhibitors, which target a protein (calcitonin gene-related peptide) involved in migraine pain. CGRP inhibitors – such as fremanezumab and erenumab – are generally used for chronic migraines and can be administered monthly through injections. These medications work by preventing the onset of migraines, rather than treating an attack in progress.

Additionally, preventive treatments like beta blockers (like propranolol), anticonvulsants such as topiramate), and antidepressants (including amitriptyline) are prescribed to reduce the frequency of migraines. These medications are taken daily to lower the risk of future attacks.

Prescription medications for severe migraines

For severe migraines that don't respond to standard treatments, doctors may prescribe stronger medications. Ergotamines – such as ergotamine tartrate or dihydroergotamine – are used to treat severe migraines by constricting blood vessels and alleviating pain.

For patients with chronic migraines, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections are sometimes used as a preventive treatment. Botox has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of chronic migraines, and patients may receive injections every 12 weeks.

Effectiveness

Prescription migraine medications can be highly effective in managing both acute attacks and chronic migraines, but their effectiveness varies from person to person. Triptans are often very effective at relieving pain if taken early in a migraine attack, with relief usually occurring within 30 minutes to two hours. However, some people may experience side effects like dizziness, tingling sensations, or fatigue.

CGRP inhibitors have shown promising results in reducing the frequency of chronic migraines, but they are not typically used for acute attacks. They are well-tolerated by most people, but common side effects may include fatigue or injection site reactions.

Preventive medications like beta blockers or anticonvulsants are generally taken daily and can reduce the frequency of migraines by 50% or more in many patients. However, they may take several weeks to start showing benefits and can cause side effects like weight gain, fatigue, or dizziness.

Overall, prescription medications for migraines can provide significant relief, but finding the right treatment may require some trial and error, especially if other health conditions are involved. Consulting with a healthcare provider is key to determining the most effective treatment plan for each individual.

Over-the-Counter Migraine Relief

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are commonly used to manage mild to moderate migraines. These medications typically include a combination of pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin, and sometimes caffeine to enhance the effects. Two popular OTC products specifically marketed for migraine relief are Advil Migraine and Excedrin Migraine.

OTC medications can provide significant relief for people experiencing mild to moderate migraines, particularly when taken at the first sign of symptoms. They work by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals to the brain – addressing both the pain and other symptoms like nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. The combination of acetaminophen and caffeine found in products like Excedrin Migraine can provide faster relief for some migraine sufferers by increasing the absorption rate of the pain-relieving ingredients.

For those who experience occasional or less severe migraines, OTC medications are often the first line of defense, as they are widely available, affordable, and can be taken without a prescription.

Which OTC treatment works best?

When comparing OTC treatments, the best migraine medicine will vary depending on the individual's response to each option. However, some key factors can guide the decision:

• Excedrin Migraine is often recommended for quick, effective relief due to the combination of acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine. The caffeine boosts the effectiveness of the other two ingredients, making it a top choice for many people.

• Advil Migraine is another strong option for people who prefer ibuprofen over acetaminophen. It may be more suitable for those who need an anti-inflammatory component in addition to pain relief.

• Other OTC migraine medications: Medications like Aleve (naproxen) and aspirin can also provide relief – though they are typically slower-acting than Excedrin or Advil for acute migraine relief.

The "best" migraine medicine is one that works well for your specific symptoms, whether you experience pain, nausea, or sensitivity. For quick, effective relief, combination products like Excedrin are often preferred by many migraine sufferers. Please note that individual responses may vary.

OTC migraine medicine tips

To use OTC migraine medications for optimal results, here are a few tips:

• Take early: For best results, take your OTC migraine medicine at the first sign of a migraine, before the pain becomes severe. Early intervention often leads to faster and more effective relief.

• Stay hydrated: Dehydration can worsen migraines, so it’s important to drink plenty of water along with the medication.

• Follow dosage instructions: Always follow the recommended dosage on the packaging to avoid the risk of side effects or overdose, especially with products that contain acetaminophen or aspirin.

• Avoid overuse: Repeated use of OTC migraine medications can lead to rebound headaches or medication overuse headaches. If you're using OTC medications more than two to three times a week, consult with a healthcare provider for additional treatment options.

• Pair with rest: Resting in a dark, quiet room while taking your medication can help enhance the relief and provide a more comfortable healing environment.

OTC migraine medications are a great option for fast relief of mild to moderate migraines, but they may not be effective for everyone. If you find that OTC options are not providing sufficient relief, or your migraines become more frequent or severe, it may be best to consult with a healthcare professional for additional treatment options.

Self-Care Tips for Migraine Relief

Self-care is an essential component of managing migraines, especially for those who experience them frequently. Incorporating practices that address both the physical and environmental factors of a migraine can significantly improve relief.

• Rest: Rest is crucial during a migraine attack. Migraines often worsen with physical activity, so lying down in a dark, quiet room helps minimize sensory stimulation and allows your body to recover. Try to sleep or take a nap if possible.

• Hydration: Dehydration is a common trigger for migraines, so maintaining hydration throughout the day is key. Water is the best option, but you can also drink herbal teas to stay hydrated while benefiting from the soothing properties of certain ingredients.

• Quiet, calm environment: Bright lights and loud sounds can exacerbate migraine symptoms. Creating a calm, quiet environment by dimming the lights and avoiding noise can help reduce the intensity of the attack and make it easier to rest and recover.

Home remedies for migraine

Many people seek natural remedies for migraine relief, and several home approaches can be helpful in reducing symptoms or providing comfort during an episode.

• Essential oils: Essential oils like lavender and peppermint are popular for migraine relief. Lavender oil has calming properties and can help alleviate pain when inhaled or applied to the temples. Peppermint oil, when applied to the forehead and temples, can provide a cooling effect that may help reduce migraine pain.

• Herbal teas: Herbal teas – particularly ginger tea or chamomile tea – are soothing and may help reduce nausea associated with migraines. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can also provide digestive relief, which is beneficial for those who experience migraine-induced stomach discomfort.

• Relaxation techniques: Practices like deep breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga can help reduce stress and tension, which are common migraine triggers. Progressive muscle relaxation can also help release physical tension in the body, making it easier to manage a migraine.

• Cold or warm compress: Applying a cold compress (e.g., a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth) to the forehead can numb pain and reduce inflammation. Alternatively, some people find relief from a warm compress or heating pad applied to the neck and shoulders, especially if muscle tension is contributing to the migraine.

• Caffeine: Small amounts of caffeine, found in drinks like coffee or tea, can help alleviate migraine symptoms by constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation. However, avoid overconsumption, as too much caffeine can trigger rebound headaches.

• Acupressure: Acupressure is a traditional therapy that involves applying gentle pressure to specific points on the body. For migraines, targeting pressure points on the hands or neck may offer relief by stimulating circulation and relaxing muscles.

While these self-care remedies may not fully replace professional medical treatments, they can provide effective relief or act as complementary strategies during a migraine attack. It’s important to experiment with different methods to see what works best for you, and to consult a healthcare provider if you experience frequent or severe migraines.

Magnesium for migraines

Magnesium is often discussed as a potential supplement for migraine prevention. Studies have shown that magnesium deficiency may be linked to migraines, and supplementing with magnesium could help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

• Magnesium supplements: Magnesium supplements, especially in the form of magnesium citrate or magnesium oxide, are commonly recommended for migraine sufferers. The recommended dose varies, so it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation.

• Dietary sources of magnesium: In addition to supplements, increasing magnesium intake through food can be beneficial. Foods rich in magnesium include leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes.

Adding magnesium to your diet may not provide immediate relief, but consistent use over time could help decrease the frequency of migraines and may also support overall neurological health.

Innovative Migraine Treatments

A migraine cap is a specialized cooling device designed to provide instant migraine relief by targeting the head with a combination of cold therapy and gentle compression. These caps are often filled with gel or designed to be chilled, and they wrap comfortably around the head, delivering a cooling effect to the temples, forehead, and neck. This cooling sensation helps reduce inflammation and constricts blood vessels, both of which can alleviate migraine pain. Many users find migraine caps to be an effective, non-invasive option for managing their symptoms, especially when combined with other treatments.

Cold therapy – such as applying ice packs – is a time-tested method for relieving migraine symptoms. Placing an ice pack on the forehead or the back of the neck can help numb the pain and reduce inflammation. Cold therapy constricts blood vessels, which can provide relief from the throbbing pain associated with migraines. For maximum comfort and effectiveness, wrap the ice pack in a cloth or towel to avoid direct skin contact, and apply it for 15-20 minutes at a time. Whether you use a commercial ice pack or just a simple frozen bag of peas, cold therapy can be a quick and effective way to manage a migraine episode.

Alternative and Folk Medicine for Migraines

Piercings to relieve migraines

The daith piercing – a piercing through the cartilage of the ear’s innermost fold – has gained popularity as an alternative treatment for migraines. The theory behind it is that the piercing targets an acupressure point believed to be linked to headache relief. Some people report significant improvements in migraine frequency and intensity after getting the piercing, claiming it offers lasting relief without the need for medications.

While scientific evidence on the effectiveness of the daith piercing for migraines is limited, anecdotal success stories from migraine sufferers are plentiful. Some small studies suggest that the piercing may help by stimulating nerve pathways, but more rigorous research is needed to confirm these claims. 

In addition to the daith piercing, other types of ear piercings are sometimes explored as remedies for migraines. These include piercings that stimulate specific acupressure points or nerve pathways associated with pain relief. While there isn’t a wealth of scientific data to fully support these treatments, they remain an area of interest for people seeking alternative migraine solutions. Some individuals find that ear piercings – especially those done in combination with other therapies – provide a reduction in migraine symptoms.

Folk remedies to relieve migraines

Folk remedies for migraines have been passed down through generations across different cultures. Some of these approaches may not be scientifically validated but still hold cultural significance and offer relief for many people.

• Herbal Remedies: Various herbs – such as feverfew and butterbur – have been used for centuries to treat migraines. These herbs are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines when taken regularly. As with any herbal remedy, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before trying them, as they may interact with other medications.

• Aromatherapy: Essential oils like lavender and peppermint have been used in folk medicine to relieve migraine symptoms. These oils can be inhaled or applied topically (with a carrier oil) to the temples or forehead to help alleviate pain. Aromatherapy is generally considered safe and can be a pleasant and calming adjunct to other treatments.

While alternative and folk remedies can be helpful for some, they may not work for everyone. It's always a good idea to combine these treatments with conventional migraine management strategies and consult a healthcare provider to ensure they align with your overall treatment plan.

How Can LifeMD Help?

Migraine relief can come in many forms, from prescription medications and OTC treatments to self-care practices and alternative remedies. The right solution varies from person to person, so it's important to explore different options to find what works best for you.

If you're dealing with frequent migraines or need help developing a treatment plan, consulting with a healthcare provider is the best way to ensure you're on the right path.

Schedule a telehealth consultation with LifeMD today to receive personalized guidance and a plan tailored to your unique needs.

LifeMD makes it easy to stay on top of your health because talking to a doctor, filling your prescriptions, getting your labs done—and more—are all easy and cost-effective. Come discover a healthcare solution built around you and your life.

Connect with a doctor now!

Join Now

Text

Call