Most people just take a pain pill when they feel the migraine coming on. This works for some migraine sufferers. The downside is that the more painkillers you take, the higher your chances of becoming sensitive to them. The pain medications can cause headaches, rather than alleviating them. It might be time to try natural remedies for migraines. They are safer than prescription drugs and often provide better results than stronger medications.
Natural Treatments
Two types of natural treatment can be used to treat migraines. These two treatments can either prevent migraine headaches from ever happening or treat migraine attacks that have already begun. These treatments can be used to treat an acute attack but not for prevention.
Acupressure points can be used to treat migraine headache pain in many areas. Acupressure is performed by pressing your thumbs or your pads with your first two fingers onto a specific area. Apply firm but gentle pressure. The pressure should be maintained for at least 30 seconds. It should not exceed 60 seconds. The pressure applied to the points below can often alleviate migraine pain quickly.
Points
Two points are located just below the base of your skull, about one to two inches from the center of your neck. These points can be reached by applying pressure as described above. Another point is between the thumb of each hand’s first finger and the thumb. For about 30 seconds, squeeze the fleshy area between the thumb of the left hand and the first finger of the right hand. Then, repeat the process with the other hand. This can often reduce the pain within minutes.
Migraine headaches are caused by the blood vessels around the brain becoming enlarged and dilapidated. It makes sense that this will reduce the pain. There are two ways to achieve this feat. Either decrease the blood flow to the head, or divert it away. A ice pack placed on the back of your neck at the base the skull can help to reduce blood flow.
Blood Vessels
The blood vessels in the brain will be less active, which will cause them to constrict rather than dilate. This will relieve the pain. For best results, leave the ice pack on at least twenty minutes but preferably 30 minutes. Heating up the body elsewhere can divert blood from the head. Sometimes, it is as easy as soaking your feet in warm water. The best way to do this is to take a warm bath.
This will dilate your blood vessels, which will allow more blood to flow to the area than to your head. You can also place an icepack on the back of your neck while you are in the tub to get the best results. This will double the effectiveness of using just one of these techniques. The most common way to relieve migraine pain is to lie down in a dark, quiet room.
Migraine Attack
A migraine attack can be intensified by loud noises and bright lights. Therefore, it is best to lie down in a dark, quiet room. The most common symptom of migraine is a feeling of increased pain when you do any strenuous exercise or work. Relaxing in this manner will help you calm down and reduce your pain.