Managing Migraines

Keeping a Headache Diary can teach you more about what brings on your headaches.

If your Headache Diary shows that certain foods trigger your headaches, try following the migraine diet.

When the migraine starts, first take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. (Brand names include Advil, Motrin, and Aleve.) Combination pills, such as Excedrin and Midol which contain caffeine, are effective but you shouldn't take them more than once a week because they increase the possibility of rebound headaches.

If over- the-counter drugs don't work, your physician can prescribe stronger medicine that stops the migraine as it is starting. You may not be able to use some medications if you are pregnant or have other health problems, such as heart problems or high blood pressure.

Prevention and Treatment for Migraines

While there is no cure for migraines, you can usually reduce their frequency and severity. Avoid things that could be triggering your migraines: alcohol (beer, wine, spirits), caffeine (coffee, tea, soda, medications containing caffeine), and certain other foods. Make sure you are getting regular sleep, meals, and exercise. Yoga or meditation can also be effective at preventing migraines. Lower your stress as much as possible.

In some cases, it helps to take medication on a daily basis to prevent migraines. There are many drugs that are good at preventing migraines, and no single one works best in all people. There might be some trial and error while you and your physician find the right one for you. Many people prefer not to take a daily medication, but remember that prevention is often more effective than treatment when it comes to headaches.