How to Treat a Migraine Headache

Millions of people suffer from migraine headaches. Treatment should always begin with professional medical diagnosis and advice. Your doctor may prescribe medication to help prevent or relieve migraines. You may also choose to use alternative therapies either in combination with prescription medication or on their own.

Things You'll Need

• Pain reliever
• Niacin supplements
• Ice packs

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Instructions

• 1

  Take a pain-reliever. Choose between nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Advil, Tylenol or aspirin) and triptans (such as Imitrex and Relpax). The NAIDs are over the counter and are used for more minor migraines. Triptans or other prescribed pain relievers tend to have more side effects but work better on more severe migraines.

• 2

  Sleep. This is often one of the best home remedies for migraines.

• 3

  Practice muscle relaxation exercises like yoga or meditation. Gently massaging the face, neck and shoulders may help reduce the pain of a migraine headache. Some people also find relief from foot massages.

• 4

  Press gently on acupressure points at the base of the skull where your skull meets your neck. Feel for two indentations that are about two inches apart. A circular massage of the fleshy area between the thumb and forefinger can also bring pain relief.

• 5

  Try niacin or vitamin B3 supplements. The supplement has been shown to give some migraine sufferers relief but a high dose is required and should only be taken under the direction of a physician because of the possible side effects.

• 6

  Rest and relax in a quiet, dark room. Rooms with no sensory stimuli, including sounds, odors or light are best. Use pillows or cushions to comfortably support your head. Avoid sudden or strenuous movements.

• 7

  Use ice packs on the back of your neck or to the area that you are experiencing pain.