Migraines can severely impact quality of life. Treating and managing migraines can allow people who suffer from migraines to lead a more comfortable and productive life, says Dr. Sun Qiu of PPG Peachtree Neurology. Here are some strategies to help manage and mitigate migraines:
1. Identify and Avoid Triggers
Migraines can be triggered by various factors. Common triggers include:
- Certain foods and beverages, such as aged cheese, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol
- Emotional stress and anxiety
- Bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells
- Lack of sleep
- Weather or altitude changes
- Hormone fluctuations
Keeping a migraine diary can help. You can record how long the headache lasts, intensity, what you did or ate before it started, and whether it responded to treatments.
2. Medication Management
There are two main types of medications used to treat migraines:
- Preventive Medications: Taken daily to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
- Abortive Medications: Taken at the onset of a migraine to treat a migraine attack.
Always consult your health care provider before starting or changing any medication. Avoid using over-the-counter medications too frequently for headaches, as headaches can actually get worse over time if over-the-counter medications (and some abortive migraine prescription medications) are used too much, which is called a medication overuse headache.
3. Lifestyle Modifications
There are things you can do in your day to day life besides medications to help manage headaches.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Avoid looking at your phone or TV right before bed, avoid caffeine or alcohol before bed.
- Eat regular, balanced meals.
- Manage stress. Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress.
- Regular exercise
- Cut down on caffeine over time, but do not stop drinking caffeine all of a sudden, since you can get caffeine withdrawal if you stop too fast.
4. Regular Check-ups
Regular follow-ups with your health care provider are essential to manage your migraines effectively. Your treatment plan may need adjustments based on your response to medications and other factors.
If your migraines are having a significant impact on your quality of life, ask your primary care doctor about seeing a neurologist to discuss evaluation and treatment options.