How to Help Control Migraines Naturally

Migraines are one of the most common kinds of headaches, affecting over five million Australians. Those who experience these headaches understand that they are much more significant than the typical tension headache. Anything from sensory stimulation (even mild) to stress can trigger a migraine and leave you debilitated for days. There is hope, however. If you struggle with migraines, you may be able to better manage them with natural care and preventative solutions. 
In this article, we tell you about:

• Migraine triggers and symptoms 

• Steps to help prevent migraines

• What to do once a migraine appears

• How movement and chiropractic can help end migraines 

If migraines are part of your life, read on to learn more about reducing and controlling them using safe, effective solutions. 

What is a Migraine?

Migraines are generally intense throbbing headaches that occur on one side of the head, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Many people have warning signs that a migraine is coming on, including neck stiffness, mood changes, and food cravings. 
Common migraine symptoms include:

• Throbbing pain on one side of the head

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Extreme sensitivity to light and sound

• Visual disturbances and blurred vision 

• Loss of appetite

• Feeling very warm (sweating) or cold (chills)

• Lethargy 

• Dizziness 

• Irritability

Not much is known about the physical changes in the body that generate a migraine, but some believe they’re due to brain cell activity that causes the release of chemicals that contract the blood vessels, which provokes the throbbing pain. 

Common migraine triggers include:

• Hormonal changes

• Seasonal changes

• Flickering, bright, or glaring light

• Certain smells or sounds

• Stress

• Environmental conditions

• Fatigue

• Certain foods and drinks

Those who suffer from these headaches should pay attention to when their migraines appear so they can discontinue habits or lifestyle choices that lead to them. 

How to Help Prevent a Migraine

Migraine prevention may seem impossible, but there are ways you can help reduce them in both occurrence and intensity.

Ways you can help avoid a migraine include:

• Know and avoid your triggers

• Work with a chiropractor to ensure your joints, tissues, and spine are healthy 

• Learn how to manage your stress

• Avoid bright lighting 

• Get plenty of sleep, food, and water 

• Learn relaxation techniques

• Have regular optical appointments to check the health of your eyes and sight

• Start low-impact exercises, such as yoga or Pilates

• Add stretching to your daily routine

• Eat nutritious foods 

When you know your triggers and warning signs, you can get ahead of a migraine, taking measures to discourage an attack before it starts. But adhering to a healthy combination of rest, relaxation, and movement is also essential to a well-functioning body and mind, so take care of yourself to reduce the risk of injuries and pain, including headaches.

What to Do At Home to Relieve a Migraine 

If your migraine has already started and you don’t want to run to the medicine cabinet, you may be able to find relief naturally and get great results. 

Organic at-home remedies for migraines include:

• Start hydrating immediately

• Engage in deep breathing exercises or meditation

• Move to a dark, quiet room and rest with your eyes closed

• Apply an ice pack or cold cloth to the forehead and neck

• Massage the temples, neck, and back

• Take a nap

• Eat a healthy snack or have a green smoothie 

• Stop straining your eyes (get off the screen, stop reading, etc.)

Migraines often call for downtime, making work, family and social engagements, and physical activity difficult. Learning how to handle or deter them will contribute to your quality of life so you can enjoy participating in the things you love. 

Visit Our Mile End Chiropractic Clinic & End Get Migraine Support 

Non-invasive, holistic chiropractic solutions can help relieve migraine frequency and severity. Our team will guide you on exercise, posture, and lifestyle choices, nurturing a strong, healthy body. 

We know your migraines are disrupting your routine, and our goal is to help you get the support necessary to live comfortably and confidently. Book with your Mile End migraine chiropractor today.