Anyone who has ever experienced a migraine knows that the best way to treat one is to prevent it from happening. Most people can feel the onset of a migraine and should take prescribed medications or treatments immediately to try to alleviate the symptoms before they get out of control. But a person can also use this as a valuable tool to understand prevent them by paying attention to when they occur.
Preventative Medicines
There are many prescriptions available that can help reduce the frequency of migraines a person experiences. These medications include Botox, cyproheptadine and anti-seizure medications. Other more commonly used medications are beta blockers and anti-depressants. If you don't want to be taking medications regularly you may be able to use other methods to control migraine occurrences. Always consult with your doctor for the course of action that is best for you.
Triggers
Triggers are things that frequently set of fa migraine. By closely examining when you feel a migraine coming on and note food, drink or stress levels consumed or experienced at the time of onset, you can start to compile a trigger list. Common foods are chocolate, dried fruits, food containing MSG or other preservatives, chili peppers, olives and avocados. Alcohol such as beer and wine also trigger migraines in many people. Some people are set off by intense fragrances such as colon or perfume or the smells of soaps, cigars or cigarettes. Your triggers may include some, none or all of these. Start to keep track of and avoid the things that cause you the most problems.
Exercise
Migraines are also associated with tension and circulation. Exercise will help reduce tension and improve circulation. Do aerobic activities that you enjoy but be sure to warm up slowly. By starting too quickly, you may actually trigger a migraine with the sudden increase in blood flow. Keeping weight down and lowering body fat has also shown to help reduce the frequency of migraines.
Women
Women are more likely to experience migraines right before they begin their menstrual period. You may want to discuss your birth control options or estrogen treatments with your doctor if you experience frequent and intense migraines during your menstrual cycle. The doctor may may need to reduce the amount of estrogen. It is also important to exercise through the cramping and bloating of your period.
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