How to Treat Migraines — Conclusion

Sleep problems. It’s common to wake up with migraines, a sign of sleep problems. Nearly half of all migraines occur between 4 a.m. and 9 a.m., according to the American Migraine Foundation, and headache clinics are full of people with chronic sleep issues. Sleeping too much and quick shifts in your schedule (when you travel or meet deadlines, for example) can be triggers, too.

Treat problems like sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome. Like everyone else, you need to avoid disruptions in your routine. If you treat your sleep problems, you’ll be healthier than many Americans.

How to treat migraines

Knowing how to treat migraines when they come will relieve anxiety and possibly reduce the time you need to rest while they occur. Your options include OTC painkillers, ice packs (stay away from a heating pad on your head), a massage, or stretching to ease neck and shoulder pain.

Your doctor may offer you a preventive medication, such as triptans, beta-blockers, anti-seizure drugs, and low doses of antidepressants.

You might also discuss supplements as a substitute or add-on for prevention. The American Academy of Neurology and American Headache Society recommend butterbur. The groups also say that riboflavin (vitamin B2), magnesium, and feverfew are “probably effective,” and that Q10 is “possibly effective.”

A small study backs the French formula Antemig, which combines feverfew, coenzyme Q10, and magnesium. There is similar evidence for a formula called Dolovent that combines magnesium, riboflavin, and Q10.

Yoga, Tai Chi, or meditation can increase body awareness, making it easier to detect and treat an oncoming headache.

Botox, acupuncture, and two techniques for electric stimulation have also helped migraine sufferers.

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