Newly Diagnosed WIth Migraines: What to Start, Stop

Starting:

1. See a healthcare provider: Getting diagnosed with migraines is important to rule out other potential causes and receive the appropriate treatment. They can provide a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs.

2. Keep a headache diary: This will help you identify potential triggers, such as certain foods, stress, hormonal changes, or weather patterns. Keeping a detailed diary will help your healthcare provider accurately assess your condition and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

3. Practice relaxation techniques: Stress can be a major trigger for migraines. Relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, can help reduce stress and prevent migraines.

4. Consider lifestyle changes: Certain lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting enough sleep, can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.

5. Over-the-Counter Medications: Mild to moderate migraines can often be managed with over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Stopping:

1. Avoid known triggers: Once you identify your triggers, do your best to avoid them. This may mean avoiding certain foods, situations, or activities that you've found to trigger your migraines.

2. Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake: Both alcohol and caffeine can be migraine triggers for some people. Limit or avoid them to see if it improves your migraines.

3. Quit smoking: Smoking can worsen migraines and make them more frequent. If you smoke, consider quitting to improve your overall health and reduce the frequency of migraines.

4. Avoid taking too much medication: Overuse of painkillers can actually make migraines worse. Follow the recommended dosage and do not exceed the recommended daily limit.