Migraines are more than just severe headaches. They are a complex neurological condition that can manifest with a variety of symptoms. Understanding the signs and symptoms of migraines can help individuals seek appropriate treatment and manage their condition more effectively.
It’s been found that migraines affect up to 10% of people worldwide. Women are more likely to experience them than men, likely due to hormonal influences. If you suffer from migraines, read on to find out some of the things you may experience.
And since we know you're here for answers, we'll give you the best remedies for them first.
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10 Natural Remedies for Migraines
1. Aromatherapy
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that are known for their therapeutic properties. Some essential oils, such as lavender and peppermint, have been studied for their potential to alleviate migraine symptoms. You can inhale the oils directly, or apply them topically to the temples and forehead.
Migrastil Migraine Stick Roll-on is a top pick for those who prefer a natural and fast-acting solution. This easy-to-use roll-on contains a combination of essential oils that have been proven to be effective, such as peppermint, spearmint, and lavender.
With its compact design, you can keep the roll-on with you at all times and apply it whenever you feel a headache coming on, making it an excellent choice for those looking for convenience and a natural remedy.
2. Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in many bodily processes, including nerve function and blood pressure regulation. Research has shown that people who suffer from migraines often have lower levels of magnesium in their bodies than those who do not. Taking magnesium supplements may help to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
3. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to help alleviate pain and other symptoms. Studies have shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for migraines, reducing the severity and frequency of headaches.
4. Meditation
Meditation is a relaxation technique that can help to reduce stress and promote feelings of calm and well-being. Studies have shown that regular meditation can be an effective treatment for migraines, reducing the frequency and intensity of headaches. Anything that reduces stress can help with migraines.
5. Ginger
Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and pain reliever that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including migraines. Drinking ginger tea or taking ginger supplements may help to reduce the severity and frequency of headaches.
6. Hydration
Stay well-hydrated throughout the day, as dehydration can trigger migraines in some individuals. Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages. Using electrolyte drops or powders can boost water’s hydrating power.
7. Keep a migraine diary
Include what you ate the day before and the day of, and make sure to add any extra stressful situations you may be dealing with. This can sometimes help pinpoint the trigger for your migraine so that you can avoid it in the future.
8. Caffeine
Some individuals find relief from migraines by consuming a small amount of caffeine, such as a cup of coffee or tea. However, be cautious, as excessive caffeine intake can lead to rebound headaches.
9. Cold Therapy
Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the painful area of your head or to the back of your neck to help numb the pain and reduce inflammation.
10. Stay in a Dark, Quiet Environment
Find a calm, dark, and quiet space to rest and minimize sensory stimulation, which can help alleviate migraine symptoms. Use an eye mask and ear plugs if necessary to create a comfortable environment. Many migraine sufferers also find that a cool room is most helpful when having a migraine attack.
21 Signs and Symptoms of Migraine
1. Throbbing Pain
One of the most common symptoms of a migraine is a throbbing or pulsing pain, usually on one side of the head. This pain can be moderate to severe and can worsen with physical activity. Oftentimes, the pain can last all day or even into the next day for some people.
2. Aura
Some people experience visual disturbances known as auras before a migraine attack. Auras can include seeing flashing lights, zigzag lines, or blind spots. Those who notice an aura may or may not experience the headache afterward, but this is a telltale sign of migraines.
3. Light Sensitivity
Many migraine sufferers are sensitive to light during an attack. Bright lights can exacerbate the pain and discomfort, and it’s likely you’ll prefer being in a dark room for the day.
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4. Sound Sensitivity
Just as with light, loud or sudden noises can intensify the pain of a migraine. Finding a dark, quiet place to rest is one of the best things you can do to combat your migraine.
5. Smell Sensitivity
Certain smells, even those that are typically pleasant, can trigger or worsen a migraine for some individuals. Each person is different, so once you know what triggers you it’s best to avoid those smells.
6. Nausea and Vomiting
Migraines can cause feelings of nausea, and in some cases, lead to vomiting. This can be difficult when trying to take medications for your migraine.
7. Neck Stiffness
A stiff or sore neck can accompany a migraine, making it difficult to move or turn the head. Make sure to spend your day in a comfortable position.
8. Blurred Vision
Some people experience blurred vision or difficulty focusing during a migraine attack. This could be a part of the aura you notice, or it could happen separately from the aura.
9. Dizziness
Feeling lightheaded or dizzy is another symptom that can accompany migraines. This makes it difficult to go about your day, so make sure to lie down to prevent further issues.
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10. Fatigue
Many migraine sufferers report feeling extremely tired or fatigued during and after an attack. Some people will notice fatigue lasting a few days. Take it easy on those few days following a migraine!
11. Mood Changes
It's not uncommon for individuals to experience mood swings, such as feeling depressed, anxious, or irritable, before or during a migraine. Migraines are incredibly painful and life-altering, and this can lead to mood swings.
12. Difficulty Speaking
Some people have trouble speaking or can't find the right words during a migraine attack. This symptom is a scary one, since it can mimic a stroke. If you are unsure whether or not you are having a migraine, it’s best to be evaluated by a doctor if you experience this symptom.
13. Tingling or Numbness
A pins-and-needles sensation or numbness can occur, typically on one side of the body or face. This symptom also mimics that of a stroke, but some people will also experience it with their migraines.
14. Weakness
Some migraine sufferers experience a temporary weakness in their limbs. This is another reason why staying in bed for the day is the best option.
15. Visual Phenomena
Apart from auras, some people see spots, stars, or shimmering areas during a migraine. This can be a part of the aura or separate from it.
16. Yawning Frequently
An unusual sign, but some people yawn excessively before the onset of a migraine.
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17. Food Cravings
Certain cravings, especially for sweets or salty foods, can be a precursor to a migraine for some individuals. In addition, food aversions can also come about depending on what triggers your migraine.
18. Difficulty Concentrating
This goes without saying, but many people find it hard to focus or concentrate during a migraine attack. If you’re having trouble concentrating, it’s best to take the day off and resume normal activities in a day or so.
19. Scalp Tenderness
The scalp may become extremely sensitive or tender to the touch, which is common with migraines and other headaches.
20. Increased Urination
Some individuals notice that they need to urinate more frequently before a migraine attack. While it’s unknown what causes this, it may be a symptom for you.
21. Nasal Congestion
A stuffy or runny nose can sometimes accompany a migraine as well.
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Migraines can be a challenging condition to manage, but with the right care, it is possible to reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. It's important to remember that every individual is different, and what works for one person may not work for another.
If you suffer from chronic migraines, it's always best to speak with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs. You can learn to live with migraines and improve your overall quality of life!
Migraines are multifaceted and can manifest in a myriad of ways. Recognizing these signs and symptoms can be the first step in seeking appropriate treatment and managing the condition. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional.
What Triggers a Migraine?
Migraine attacks can be triggered by a variety of factors. Common triggers include:
- Emotional stress. Emotional stress is one of the most common triggers of migraine headaches. During stressful events, certain chemicals in the brain are released to combat the situation (known as the "flight or fight" response). The release of these chemicals can bring on a migraine. Other emotions like anxiety, worry, and excitement can increase muscle tension and dilate blood vessels. That can make your migraine more severe.
- Missing a meal. Delaying a meal might also trigger your migraine headache.
- Sensitivity to specific chemicals and preservatives in foods. Certain foods and beverages such as aged cheese, beverages containing alcohol, chocolate and food additives such as nitrates (found in pepperoni, hot dogs and luncheon meats) and fermented or pickled foods may be responsible for triggering up to 30% of migraines.
- Caffeine. Having too much caffeine or withdrawal from caffeine can cause headaches when the caffeine level abruptly drops. Your blood vessels seem to become sensitized to caffeine and when you don't get it, a headache may occur. Caffeine is sometimes recommended by healthcare providers to help with treating acute migraine attacks but should not be used frequently.
- Daily use of pain-relieving medications. If you use medicine meant to relieve headache pain too often, that can cause a rebound headache.
- Hormonal changes in women. Migraines in women are more common around the time of their menstrual periods. The abrupt drop in estrogen that triggers menses can also trigger migraines. Hormonal changes can also be brought on by birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy. Migraines are generally worse between puberty and menopause since these estrogen fluctuations generally don’t occur in young girls and post-menopausal women. If your hormones are a strong factor in your migraines, you may have fewer headaches after menopause. Hormonal changes do not appear to trigger migraines in men.
- Light. Flashing lights, fluorescent lights, light from the TV or computer and sunlight can trigger you.
AFFILIATE INFORMATION
The Migraine Foundation is an affiliate for some or all of the products on this page. When you click the link and purchase on Amazon, you help support our mission of improving the quality of life for individuals who suffer from migraines.
It is the mission, duty, and purpose of the Migraine Resource Center to address, educate, increase awareness, and aid those who have no access to proper Migraine education. This enables them to manage their symptoms hence living a comfortable life with their loved ones.
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