Words by Chloe Powell
Those plagued by migraines are always on the lookout for the best relief from the throbbing and debilitating pain they bring. You’re likely already familiar with the pills your doctor prescribed or the ones you can pick up over the counter. However, alternative methods can help stop an attack in its tracks or even prevent one from happening in the first place. Here are five effective migraine treatments to consider.
Migraine Headbands
Migraine headbands are essentially ice packs you can wear around your head, leaving your hands free so you can rest or go about your day. The benefit stems from cold therapy, and research has shown that it can provide immediate relief by reducing migraine pain. Most migraine headbands use cooling gel or removable ice packs that you store in the freezer. Some are shaped like a wrap, while others resemble a soft hat that covers your eyes and temples. More advanced devices are available that can circulate cold water at a temperature you can control, which allows you to enjoy consistent and targeted cooling.
Try This From Boots: Cooling Migraine Headband
Botox
People may associate Botox with smoothing wrinkles and fine lines, but it’s also an FDA-approved treatment for migraines in adults aged 18 and older. During treatment, your doctor injects it into specific muscles in your head and neck to block the release of certain chemicals involved in pain transmission. After a few weeks, you may notice your migraines are less severe and frequent. You may be a good candidate for Botox injections if you experience headaches on at least 15 days a month, with each episode lasting four hours or longer. The effect usually lasts up to three months, but this can vary depending on the severity of your migraines. If you rely heavily on daily pain medication, you might find Botox helpful, as it reduces your need for constant drug use.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one of the oldest medical practices still in use today. Originating in traditional Chinese medicine, it aims to balance the body’s energy flow, known as qi. Modern medicine believes that acupuncture works by stimulating nerves beneath the skin, which leads to the release of pain-relieving chemicals known as endorphins. Many migraine sufferers report fewer headache days and shorter, less intense episodes after regular acupuncture sessions. Although the results vary depending on the person and migraine type, it’s a medication-free option worth exploring. During an acupuncture session, your practitioner will insert very thin needles into specific points on your body. For migraines, these may include your head, arms, hands, legs and feet. You might feel a slight tingling or dull ache, but it shouldn’t be painful.
Try One Of These Top Acupuncturists:
Essential Oils and Herbs
If you’re looking for a quick, short-term relief, essential oils can be surprisingly helpful. The two types of oils people use for migraines are as follows.
Lavender oil: Simply inhaling lavender oil for 15 minutes can reduce migraine pain and shorten its duration. The calming and sedative properties of lavender may address common migraine triggers, such as stress and anxiety.
Peppermint oil: The menthol content in peppermint oil creates a cooling sensation. It may help improve blood flow to the forehead and relax tense muscles. Apply the oil topically to your wrists and neck. Make sure to dilute it before use to avoid irritation.
In addition to essential oils, you can try herbs like ginger to help calm the storm. Ginger has bioactive and antioxidant compounds. It’s known to relieve migraine pain, nausea and vomiting. The easiest way to use ginger for migraine is by using ginger tea bags. Alternatively, there are ginger essential oils that you can apply on the back of your neck, temples and forehead.
Tinted Glasses
Blue and fluorescent light can increase light sensitivity, which triggers and worsens migraine headaches. Since you can’t always go to a dark room during an attack, tinted glasses can provide the relief you need.
Sometimes referred to as migraine glasses, tinted glasses filter out specific wavelengths of light that can exacerbate symptoms. One of the most common lens types is Fl-41. It has a soft rose tint and is known to reduce light sensitivity and eye strain. Some brands offer blue light-blocking glasses that filter light in the 400-550 nm range. These glasses are now available in stylish designs, allowing you to balance comfort and aesthetics.
Try This: BonCharge Crystal Blue Light Blocking Glasses
Many individuals who experience migraines swear by these five treatments. However, migraines can vary from person to person, so what works well for someone else may not work the same way for you. Finding the perfect remedy often takes time and a bit of trial and error. It’s also wise to consult with your doctor before starting something new.
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