Whether you just had your first migraine, or you finally figured out those headaches weren’t exactly just headaches, you’re probably wondering what you’re supposed to do now. We’ll give you the basics.
New to Migraines? Top Strategies for Treating Attacks
Migraines aren’t regular headaches that you can throw a couple of ibuprofen at and call it a day. You may need stronger prescriptions and a solid treatment plan to tackle migraines where they live. Make an appointment with a doctor to discuss treatment, or to get a referral to a migraine specialist. The more information you have, the better. But, in the meantime, here are a few tips when you need relief right away.
Find a quiet room
If you’re home, escape to the quietest, darkest room you can find. Migraines are triggered by light, noise and other stimuli. If you’re at work, grab a few minutes alone in a quiet room. The goal is to remove yourself for as long as you can from outside stimulation.
Take what you have on hand
Over-the-counter medication can take the edge off. Raid your cupboards and take a dose of pain medication. Stay on top of the pain by taking the medication every 4–6 hours.
Bring an ice pack
Cold therapy has been shown to decrease migraine pain. Grab an ice pack or a package of frozen peas, and place on your forehead or the back of your neck.
Caffeinate
Some studies show caffeine can relieve pain in the early stages, or enhance your over-the-counter medication. Some OTC medication (like Excedrin Migraine) contains caffeine for this reason. Drink coffee, tea or a caffeinated soda when you start to feel a migraine coming on.
Breathe deeply
When we’re in pain, we automatically tighten our body, which can cause a loop of tight muscles and more pain. You won’t feel like it, but while you’re in your dark, quiet place, focus on your breathing: 5 seconds inhale, 7 seconds exhale. Do this for several minutes, and focus on relaxing each muscle group in your body. Repeat this. While you’re doing this, try to clear your mind or focus on a mantra or image in your mind that you find soothing.
It can feel impossible to concentrate on home treatment when you’re in pain. Remind yourself that the pain will pass, even if it feels like it won’t. You won’t be in pain forever, and you can ride this out. In the meantime, use these tips to comfort yourself while you’re riding the wave.
Our Team: We are Here to Help
We want you to better understand your migraines and triggers. Everyone on our team has lived with migraines. We’re here to help. Reach out any time – we love questions. [email protected].
As always — our app team cannot give medical advice.
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Can an app help you have fewer migraines?
Yes! Over 85% of our users have reduced migraines.
Our app brings techniques from advanced headache clinics into an easy-to-use migraine app.
Advanced headache clinics focus on finding triggers and best medication combinations – for each patient. Knowing what to avoid, finding the right medications, and having clear records for your care team is the key.
Our pattern finder helps you collect the right data to find your REAL migraine triggers. We help you keep a clear, usable log for your care team. We use the power of data collected from over 50k users to help you find patterns in what’s making you sick and get science-backed suggestions on what may work best for your next steps.
Our Team is Here to Help
We count every migraine avoided by our users as a big success.
Everyone on our team has lived with migraines. We’re here to help. Reach out any time – we love questions. [email protected]. (Our team cannot give medical advice.)
We love questions. [email protected]
Get The Tracker
Migraine Insight has helped thousands of people reduce or eliminate migraines.
