Migraine - What Brings Relief

Migraines are vascular headaches like cluster headaches and headaches caused by fever. While the real reasons behind vascular headaches are still unknown, it''s assumed that the extension of the blood vessels is causing the pain. The brain itself doesn''t have any pain receptors but the arteries do. Anything that can reduce the size of the arteries again should help to reduce the headache pain therefore.

Often you can get a relief by drinking a cup of coffee. The caffeine narrows the arteries. Feverfew is also a well known natural treatment. Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Paracetamol (acetaminophen) and Triptans are other painkillers.

When you feel the headache coming, then lie down in a dark room and take some deep slow breaths. They oxygen and the relaxation will help and bring some ease. If the aching is too strong the you must use one of the painkillers. There is not much more you can do.

Sometimes you will notice more neurological phenomena preceding the migraine. If so, this so called aura lasts about five to twenty minutes and begins with vision problems or a tickling in the arms and hands. Then you know a headache is on the way although the aura can happen without a headache but this is rare.

The best treatment therefore is prevention. Some people could dramatically reduce the appearance of migraines by changing their lifestyle. It''s a known fact that migraines have become a problem only within the last few decades in industrialized nations. Today we have more stress, less healthy food and a different way of living. While we can''t change our whole life probably, a few changes can have a big impact on our migraines already.

It has been observed that certain things can trigger migraines. Get aware of what you eat because there are certain foods which can cause headaches. Milk, cheese, sweeties and red wine for instance can be a cause. Run a diary to find out what is causing your migraine.

Reduce stress and do more exercise. Do something that gives your body more oxygen and trains your arteries. Take a walk in fresh air more often, go swimming or biking. Relax. Think positive.

These tips might sound naive but think again. A change in your lifestyle could totally reduce the occurrence of your migraines. What makes your lifestyle? It''s the way you think, work, life, eat. So think positive, work smart and not hard, life healthy. These are not only tips for reducing headaches but also for a better life. Just do it.

Andrew C. Povel is an expert in headaches and migraines and provides detailed information on migraine headaches at his web site http://www.HeadacheABC.com