- Many home treatments are used for migraines, and often start with lifestyle changes. Triggers of migraines include sleep disturbances, poor diet and stress. Use a diary or journal to track migraine headaches to see what may be prompting them. Learning to identify triggers will help you prevent a migraine. Other causes may be the hormonal fluctuations of a menstrual cycle, processed foods, smells or fragrances, light and change in atmospheric air pressure.
Exercise regularly to keep blood, endorphins and oxygen flowing to the entire body, especially the brain. Spend at least 30 minutes a day doing a cardio activity, but be cautious when you are suffering from a migraine. Try a slow walk outside to see if symptoms subside with the flow of endorphins, taking care to cover the eyes if there is light sensitivity. - Some migraines may be triggered by dehydration. To prevent migraines through dehydration, drink at least 64 oz. of water each day to hydrate the body and blood vessels. Some individuals' migraines may be triggered by food, so a journal will come in handy when determining what may be causing the migraine. Typical foods known to cause migraines in some individuals are processed meats, dairy products, pickled or dried fruits and vegetables, MSG additive and artificial sweeteners. As soon as you experience a migraine after eating, write down what you ate to be aware for the next migraine. If you can determine that a certain food is causing migraines, refrain from eating it.
- The use of aromatherapy and massage may help prevent migraines, according to the Mayo Clinic. Known essential oils that soothe headaches are eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender and sandalwood. Look for essential oils at a health-food store or apothecary and purchase quality oils to ensure they are authentic. Use five drops of an essential oil on a warm or cool cloth and apply to the forehead. Relax with the compress on the head for 30 minutes to relieve symptoms.
You may also use those same oils in self-massage to prevent tension that may cause migraine headaches. Apply a few drops of essential oil to the fingertips and massage the scalp with the fingers. Use the same motion as if you were washing your scalp, massaging and relieving pressure to prevent a migraine.
If you feel a migraine coming on and you become sensitive to light, take an hour to relax in a dark, quiet room. Relaxing in a dark room may help symptoms subside through a lack of migraine stimulation.
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