How long does a migraine typically last. What are the four stages of a migraine episode. How can you manage migraine symptoms during different stages. When should you seek medical help for a migraine.

Understanding Migraine: A Neurological Disorder

Migraine is a complex neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s characterized by recurring episodes of moderate to severe headaches, often accompanied by a range of other symptoms. While the exact cause of migraines remains unclear, researchers believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors play a role.

Did you know that migraines are three times more common in women than in men? This gender disparity is thought to be linked to hormonal fluctuations, particularly the levels of female sex hormones that rise during puberty. Interestingly, the rates of migraines in children are relatively similar across sexes, further supporting the hormonal influence theory.

The Four Stages of a Migraine Episode

A typical migraine episode can be divided into four distinct stages: prodrome, aura, headache, and postdrome. However, it’s important to note that not everyone experiences all four stages during each episode. Let’s delve deeper into each stage to better understand the migraine timeline.

1. Prodrome Stage: The Early Warning Signs

The prodrome stage, also known as the premonitory phase, is the first stage of a migraine episode. It can begin hours or even days before the onset of a headache. During this stage, individuals may experience a variety of symptoms that serve as early warning signs of an impending migraine.

• Excessive yawning or fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating or reading
• Unexplained mood changes or depression
• Muscle aches
• Increased sensitivity to light or sound
• Food cravings
• Increased urination
• Constipation or diarrhea

Can recognizing prodrome symptoms help manage migraines? Absolutely. By identifying these early warning signs, individuals can take preventive measures such as:

1. Taking preventive medications
2. Avoiding known migraine triggers
3. Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation

These proactive steps may help reduce the severity of the migraine or even prevent it from progressing to the next stages.

2. Aura Stage: The Neurological Phenomenon

The aura stage is a fascinating yet sometimes alarming phase of a migraine episode. It’s important to note that not everyone who experiences migraines will go through the aura stage. In fact, only about 25% of migraine sufferers report experiencing aura symptoms.

What exactly happens during the aura stage? This phase can occur immediately before or during the headache phase and typically involves various neurological symptoms:

• Visual disturbances (e.g., seeing zig-zagging lines or flashes of light)
• Auditory disturbances (e.g., hearing ringing or other noises that aren’t present)
• Physical sensations (e.g., numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness)
• Language disturbances (e.g., difficulty finding or understanding words)

How long does the aura stage typically last? The aura phase can persist for up to 60 minutes or even longer in some cases. It’s not uncommon for the aura stage to overlap with the onset of the headache phase.

3. Headache Stage: The Peak of Pain

The headache stage is often considered the most challenging phase of a migraine episode. During this stage, individuals typically experience moderate to severe head pain that can be debilitating. The pain usually starts gradually and intensifies over time, reaching a peak before eventually subsiding.

What are the characteristics of migraine headache pain?

• Often starts on one side of the head
• May spread or switch to other areas as the episode progresses
• Can worsen with physical activity
• May be accompanied by nausea and vomiting
• Often involves increased sensitivity to light, noise, or smells

It’s worth noting that some individuals may experience what’s known as a “silent migraine” or “migraine without headache.” In these cases, other migraine symptoms are present, but the characteristic head pain is absent.

How long does the headache stage typically last? Without treatment, the headache phase can persist anywhere from 4 to 72 hours. In some rare cases, it may even last longer, leading to a condition known as status migrainosus or intractable migraine.

4. Postdrome Stage: The Migraine “Hangover”

The final stage of a migraine episode is known as the postdrome phase, often referred to as the migraine “hangover.” This phase can last up to 1-2 days and affects approximately 80% of migraine sufferers.

What symptoms are common during the postdrome stage?

• Weakness or fatigue
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Dizziness
• Body aches
• In some cases, a sense of euphoria or intense relief

How can you manage postdrome symptoms? Several strategies may help alleviate the discomfort associated with this phase:

1. Staying well-hydrated
2. Avoiding bright lights and strong smells
3. Practicing gentle relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation
4. Minimizing stress when possible

Migraine Duration: How Long Does an Episode Last?

The duration of a migraine episode can vary significantly from person to person and even from one episode to another. Understanding the typical timeline can help individuals better manage their condition and seek appropriate treatment when necessary.

How long does each stage of a migraine typically last?

• Prodrome: Hours to days before the headache
• Aura: Up to 60 minutes or longer
• Headache: 4 to 72 hours without treatment
• Postdrome: Up to 1-2 days

It’s important to note that not everyone experiences all four stages, and the duration of each stage can vary. Some individuals may recover quickly after the headache phase, while others may need several days to fully recover due to postdrome symptoms.

Managing Migraine Symptoms: Strategies for Each Stage

Effectively managing migraine symptoms often requires a multi-faceted approach tailored to each stage of the episode. By understanding the unique characteristics of each phase, individuals can implement targeted strategies to alleviate symptoms and potentially shorten the duration of their migraine.

Prodrome Stage Management

During the prodrome stage, the focus is on prevention and preparation. What can you do when you recognize early warning signs?

• Take preventive medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider
• Avoid known triggers (e.g., certain foods, stress, lack of sleep)
• Practice stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing or meditation
• Ensure proper hydration and nutrition
• Create a calm, low-stimulation environment

Aura Stage Management

During the aura stage, the goal is to minimize discomfort and prepare for the potential onset of a headache. What strategies can help during this phase?

• Find a quiet, dark place to rest if possible
• Use relaxation techniques to stay calm
• Take prescribed medications at the first sign of aura symptoms
• Apply cold or warm compresses to the head or neck, depending on personal preference

Headache Stage Management

The headache stage often requires more aggressive management strategies. What are some effective ways to cope with migraine pain?

• Take prescribed acute migraine medications as directed
• Rest in a dark, quiet room
• Use cold or hot compresses on the head or neck
• Practice relaxation techniques or gentle yoga
• Stay hydrated and eat small, easily digestible meals if nausea allows
• Consider alternative therapies like acupressure or massage

Postdrome Stage Management

During the postdrome stage, the focus shifts to recovery and rejuvenation. How can you manage postdrome symptoms effectively?

• Get plenty of rest and avoid overexertion
• Stay hydrated and eat nutritious, easily digestible foods
• Gradually reintroduce regular activities as you feel able
• Practice gentle stretching or yoga to alleviate muscle tension
• Be patient with yourself as your body recovers

When to Seek Medical Help for Migraines

While many migraine sufferers can manage their condition with self-care strategies and prescribed medications, there are instances when professional medical intervention is necessary. Recognizing these situations is crucial for ensuring proper care and preventing potential complications.

When should you contact a healthcare provider about your migraines?

• If you experience new or unusual headache symptoms
• If your migraine patterns change significantly
• If your migraines become more frequent or severe
• If over-the-counter or prescribed medications are no longer effective
• If your migraines are interfering with your daily life and activities

Are there any red flags that require immediate medical attention? Yes, seek emergency care if you experience:

• A sudden, severe headache often described as a “thunderclap”
• Headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, or seizures
• Headache following a head injury
• Persistent headache in someone who was previously headache-free, especially in those over 50
• Headache accompanied by vision changes, weakness, or other neurological symptoms that don’t resolve

Advances in Migraine Treatment and Research

The field of migraine research is constantly evolving, with new treatments and management strategies emerging regularly. Recent advances have provided hope for many migraine sufferers who have struggled to find relief with traditional methods.

What are some of the latest developments in migraine treatment?

• CGRP Inhibitors: A new class of drugs that target calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), a protein involved in pain transmission
• Neuromodulation Devices: Non-invasive devices that use electrical or magnetic stimulation to alleviate migraine symptoms
• Personalized Medicine: Tailoring treatments based on an individual’s genetic profile and specific migraine characteristics
• Lifestyle Interventions: Increasing focus on diet, exercise, and stress management as part of comprehensive migraine care
• Digital Health Solutions: Apps and wearable devices to track migraine patterns and provide real-time management strategies

How might these advances shape the future of migraine treatment? As research progresses, we can expect more targeted, personalized approaches to migraine management. This may lead to improved quality of life for millions of migraine sufferers worldwide, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of episodes and minimizing the impact of this debilitating condition on daily life.

Living with Migraines: Coping Strategies and Support

Living with migraines can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, many individuals can effectively manage their condition and maintain a good quality of life. Developing a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of migraine management is key to long-term success.

What are some effective coping strategies for migraine sufferers?

• Keeping a migraine diary to identify triggers and patterns
• Developing a consistent sleep schedule
• Practicing stress-reduction techniques regularly
• Maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated
• Engaging in regular, moderate exercise
• Building a support network of understanding friends, family, and healthcare providers

How can you build a strong support system? Consider these options:

1. Join a migraine support group (in-person or online)
2. Educate your friends and family about your condition
3. Work with your employer to make necessary accommodations
4. Connect with a mental health professional who specializes in chronic pain management
5. Explore online resources and communities dedicated to migraine awareness and support

By implementing these strategies and building a strong support network, individuals with migraines can improve their ability to manage their condition and maintain a fulfilling life despite the challenges posed by recurring migraine episodes.

Migraine timeline, stages, duration, and recovery

Migraine is a neurological disorder that can cause moderate-to-severe headaches, sensitivity to light, nausea, and other symptoms. Each migraine episode has various stages.

Understanding the stages a migraine episode can help a person manage the condition and find effective treatments. These may prevent symptoms or stop them from worsening.

Below, we explore the timeline of a migraine episode, how long one can last, and when to contact a healthcare professional.

Migraine is a neurological condition that typically causes moderate-to-severe headaches and other symptoms that recur periodically.

Episodes may happen occasionally, in a condition called episodic migraine, or very frequently, which is called chronic migraine.

During a migraine episode, a person may experience sensitivity to light or sound, nausea, and vomiting.

Migraine is three times as common in women, compared with men. However, the rates in children of different sexes are roughly similar. Scientists believe that levels of female sex hormones, which rise during puberty, play a role in the difference among adults.

The four stages of migraine are: prodrome, aura, headache, and postdrome. However, an episode may not include every stage.

Prodrome

This is the first stage of a migraine episode. It can begin hours or days before a headache, and it can involve:

• yawning or tiredness
• difficulty concentrating, reading, or speaking
• unexplained mood changes
• depression
• muscle aches
• sensitivity to light or sound
• food cravings
• increased urination
• constipation or diarrhea

For some, these symptoms are difficult to identify because they can stem from so many other factors, such as a lack of sleep or stress. However, if a person can spot the early signs of a migraine, they can take preventive action.

A person might try:

• preventive medications
• avoiding migraine triggers, when possible
• relaxation techniques, such as meditation

Learn more about migraine medications and home remedies.

Aura

Around 25% of people with migraine experience aura. The aura phase can occur immediately before or during a headache. It may involve:

• visual disturbances, such as seeing zig-zagging lines or flashes of light
• auditory disturbances, such as hearing a noise, possibly a ringing sound, that is not there
• physical sensations, such as numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness
• language disturbances, such as difficulty finding or understanding words

The aura phase may last 60 minutes or longer, and it may overlap with the headache phase.

Learn more about migraine aura.

Headache

If a migraine episode progresses to the headache stage, the pain typically starts gradually and becomes more severe. It eventually peaks and dissipates.

The intensity and location of the pain can vary, but it often starts on one side of the head. It may spread or switch to other areas as the episode continues. The pain may get worse with physical activity.

At this stage, a person may also experience:

• nausea
• vomiting
• sensitivity to light, noise, or smells

It is also possible to experience migraine without a headache. This is informally called a silent migraine.

Taking medications to reduce the pain may help at this stage. But people often find that medication is most effective during the early phases.

Postdrome

This is the last phase of a migraine episode, and some call it a migraine “hangover.” This phase can last up to 1–2 days. Around 80% of people with migraine experience it.

A person may feel:

• weak
• exhausted
• confused
• dizzy
• achey

Some people also report euphoria or intense relief after a migraine episode.

The headache stage might last anywhere from 4–72 hours without medical treatment, though it may last longer.

If an episode lasts longer than 3 days, even with medication, the doctor may refer to it as status migrainosus. This phenomenon is a complication of migraine, and experts are unsure why it happens. Another name for the condition is intractable migraine.

The doctor may recommend changes to an existing migraine treatment plan, or in some cases, a visit to a hospital. Doctors can use strong medications to stop the pain of an intractable migraine. These medications might include dexamethasone or nerve-blocking drugs.

The recovery time can depend on whether a person experiences postdrome, or migraine hangover, symptoms. People who do may need 1–2 days to fully recover once the headache subsides. Others may recover more quickly.

People with postdrome symptoms may benefit from these strategies:

• staying hydrated
• avoiding bright lights and strong smells
• trying relaxation techniques, such as gentle yoga or meditation
• avoiding stress, when possible

If a migraine headache lasts longer than 72 hours without responding to regular migraine medication, the person may need additional treatment. Anyone who has experienced this pain for longer than 3 days should speak with a doctor as soon as they can.

Many other health issues can cause headaches, so it is important to receive a professional diagnosis. Anyone experiencing migraine symptoms for the first time should contact a healthcare professional.

In addition, anyone who has at least four migraine episodes within a month — or any episode that is disabling — should receive professional care.

A doctor may diagnose chronic migraine if a person has had 15 or more days of headaches per month, with at least 8 of these days meeting the criteria for migraine.

Many different migraine treatments are available. Some can prevent the symptoms and others can stop them.

Some headaches signal a need for immediate care. If a person experiences any of the following, call 911 or the local emergency number immediately:

• a sudden, severe headache with the worst pain ever
• a headache alongside paralysis, drooping on one side of the face, difficulty speaking, or sudden blurry vision
• a headache along with neck stiffness, a rash, muscle or joint pain, or a fever

Migraine is a complex neurological disorder that can cause recurring headaches and other symptoms. A migraine episode can have four stages.

The headache stage may last about 4–72 hours. After the pain improves, the person may experience a migraine “hangover,” which may involve fatigue, achey muscles, and confusion.

Anyone who experiences migraine symptoms for the first time or any debilitating symptoms should contact a doctor. Many preventive and abortive treatments are available.

Migraine timeline, stages, duration, and recovery

Migraine is a neurological disorder that can cause moderate-to-severe headaches, sensitivity to light, nausea, and other symptoms. Each migraine episode has various stages.

Understanding the stages a migraine episode can help a person manage the condition and find effective treatments. These may prevent symptoms or stop them from worsening.

Below, we explore the timeline of a migraine episode, how long one can last, and when to contact a healthcare professional.

Migraine is a neurological condition that typically causes moderate-to-severe headaches and other symptoms that recur periodically.

Episodes may happen occasionally, in a condition called episodic migraine, or very frequently, which is called chronic migraine.

During a migraine episode, a person may experience sensitivity to light or sound, nausea, and vomiting.

Migraine is three times as common in women, compared with men. However, the rates in children of different sexes are roughly similar. Scientists believe that levels of female sex hormones, which rise during puberty, play a role in the difference among adults.

The four stages of migraine are: prodrome, aura, headache, and postdrome. However, an episode may not include every stage.

Prodrome

This is the first stage of a migraine episode. It can begin hours or days before a headache, and it can involve:

• yawning or tiredness
• difficulty concentrating, reading, or speaking
• unexplained mood changes
• depression
• muscle aches
• sensitivity to light or sound
• food cravings
• increased urination
• constipation or diarrhea

For some, these symptoms are difficult to identify because they can stem from so many other factors, such as a lack of sleep or stress. However, if a person can spot the early signs of a migraine, they can take preventive action.

A person might try:

• preventive medications
• avoiding migraine triggers, when possible
• relaxation techniques, such as meditation

Learn more about migraine medications and home remedies.

Aura

Around 25% of people with migraine experience aura. The aura phase can occur immediately before or during a headache. It may involve:

• visual disturbances, such as seeing zig-zagging lines or flashes of light
• auditory disturbances, such as hearing a noise, possibly a ringing sound, that is not there
• physical sensations, such as numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness
• language disturbances, such as difficulty finding or understanding words

The aura phase may last 60 minutes or longer, and it may overlap with the headache phase.

Learn more about migraine aura.

Headache

If a migraine episode progresses to the headache stage, the pain typically starts gradually and becomes more severe. It eventually peaks and dissipates.

The intensity and location of the pain can vary, but it often starts on one side of the head. It may spread or switch to other areas as the episode continues. The pain may get worse with physical activity.

At this stage, a person may also experience:

• nausea
• vomiting
• sensitivity to light, noise, or smells

It is also possible to experience migraine without a headache. This is informally called a silent migraine.

Taking medications to reduce the pain may help at this stage. But people often find that medication is most effective during the early phases.

Postdrome

This is the last phase of a migraine episode, and some call it a migraine “hangover.” This phase can last up to 1–2 days. Around 80% of people with migraine experience it.

A person may feel:

• weak
• exhausted
• confused
• dizzy
• achey

Some people also report euphoria or intense relief after a migraine episode.

The headache stage might last anywhere from 4–72 hours without medical treatment, though it may last longer.

If an episode lasts longer than 3 days, even with medication, the doctor may refer to it as status migrainosus. This phenomenon is a complication of migraine, and experts are unsure why it happens. Another name for the condition is intractable migraine.

The doctor may recommend changes to an existing migraine treatment plan, or in some cases, a visit to a hospital. Doctors can use strong medications to stop the pain of an intractable migraine. These medications might include dexamethasone or nerve-blocking drugs.

The recovery time can depend on whether a person experiences postdrome, or migraine hangover, symptoms. People who do may need 1–2 days to fully recover once the headache subsides. Others may recover more quickly.

People with postdrome symptoms may benefit from these strategies:

• staying hydrated
• avoiding bright lights and strong smells
• trying relaxation techniques, such as gentle yoga or meditation
• avoiding stress, when possible

If a migraine headache lasts longer than 72 hours without responding to regular migraine medication, the person may need additional treatment. Anyone who has experienced this pain for longer than 3 days should speak with a doctor as soon as they can.

Many other health issues can cause headaches, so it is important to receive a professional diagnosis. Anyone experiencing migraine symptoms for the first time should contact a healthcare professional.

In addition, anyone who has at least four migraine episodes within a month — or any episode that is disabling — should receive professional care.

A doctor may diagnose chronic migraine if a person has had 15 or more days of headaches per month, with at least 8 of these days meeting the criteria for migraine.

Many different migraine treatments are available. Some can prevent the symptoms and others can stop them.

Some headaches signal a need for immediate care. If a person experiences any of the following, call 911 or the local emergency number immediately:

• a sudden, severe headache with the worst pain ever
• a headache alongside paralysis, drooping on one side of the face, difficulty speaking, or sudden blurry vision
• a headache along with neck stiffness, a rash, muscle or joint pain, or a fever

Migraine is a complex neurological disorder that can cause recurring headaches and other symptoms. A migraine episode can have four stages.

The headache stage may last about 4–72 hours. After the pain improves, the person may experience a migraine “hangover,” which may involve fatigue, achey muscles, and confusion.

Anyone who experiences migraine symptoms for the first time or any debilitating symptoms should contact a doctor. Many preventive and abortive treatments are available.

High IQ disease. What triggers a migraine and how to relieve its attack?

It is impossible to get rid of migraine once and for all. But the disease can be brought under control. We are talking about this with neurologist Anna Vol.

Classic

– Anna Evgenievna, we often mistakenly call any headache a migraine. But is it a separate disease? What is its feature?

Migraine is a chronic neurological disease that is more common in women. By the way, to some extent I can console them – according to research, people suffering from migraine usually have an IQ above average. For example, Mikhail Bulgakov and the Roman prefect of Judea, Pontius Pilate, suffered from migraines.

The predisposition to migraine is inherited, and by varying degrees of kinship. This disease is distinguished by unilateral (not always, but most often) throbbing pain, which is accompanied by nausea, vomiting (often it brings relief), photo and sound sensitivity. With a migraine, the pain lasts at least two to four hours. If headache attacks of any intensity and duration occur in a person more than 15 times a month, we are already talking about chronic migraine.

In any case, when migraine-specific headaches appear, a person should see a neurologist. Only a specialist can conduct an adequate examination, diagnose and prescribe treatment.

– You said about gender predisposition. Is there an age predisposition to migraine?

– It happens, of course, and children’s migraine, but, as a rule, the first attacks begin during puberty – this is a classic of the genre. However, there are patients in whom the first episodes occur at 35–40 years of age, and sometimes even at an older age. Another feature of this disease is that if a woman suffers from migraine, then there are practically no attacks during pregnancy. In the first trimester of pregnancy, mild migraine attacks may still occur, but not in the second and third. After childbirth, migraine attacks, alas, return.

Peace, only peace!

– There is an opinion among the people that a migraine cannot be cured, and if it appears in a person, then this is serious and forever. Is it so?

– Let me give you an analogy. Can caries be cured once and for all if oral hygiene is not observed? No, you will be given a filling, and in a year or two you will need to go back to the dentist with this tooth. If you follow all the recommendations of the dentist, the need for re-treatment, if it comes, will not be soon. It’s the same with migraines. If you follow certain recommendations of a neurologist, life will be much easier. In other words, migraine cannot be cured once and for all, but with the help of therapy and lifestyle changes, you can take it under control and come to the conclusion that if there are attacks, then less often and weaker.

Statistics

15 or more attacks per month – chronic migraine.

Chronic migraine is an indication for prophylactic treatment. But I repeat, a neurologist should select it, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body and the course of the disease. Although, of course, when we are not talking about chronic migraine and its attacks are rare, it also significantly reduces the quality of life of a person. Therefore, it is necessary to take measures to improve the condition in case of episodic attacks.

– What measures should be taken to prevent migraine attacks?

– An important preventive measure is the observance of the daily regimen. For example, if on a weekday you are used to getting up at 6 in the morning, and on weekends you decide to sleep longer, it is likely that you will get a migraine. Provoke migraine attacks: red wine, smoked meats, fizzy drinks, mental and emotional stress. In some patients, the trigger for migraine is being among a large crowd of people.

In other words, a person with a tendency to migraine needs to lead a healthy lifestyle and try not to be nervous. In our time, of course, it is difficult to avoid stress, so, I repeat, you should not neglect the preventive treatment that a neurologist specializing in the treatment of headaches will prescribe.

– How can you alleviate your condition during a migraine attack?

– In the very first minutes, you should take such simple drugs as Citramon or Paracetamol – two or three tablets at a time. It is advisable to lie down (ideally, sleep) in a dark, quiet, well-ventilated room. A hot shower helps someone, and a cold compress on the head helps someone.
But, in any case, if specific headaches recur, if they reduce the quality of life – hands to feet and see a doctor!

Rada Bozhenko, “AiF-Ural”

How to avoid a migraine attack

Migraine cannot be completely cured, but thanks to modern methods of treatment – with and without drugs – today it is possible to reduce the frequency and severity of a migraine attack (including headache), and in many cases completely prevent it. How to do it?

1. Identify precipitating factors.

The most important thing is to identify your triggers. Keeping a headache diary can help with this. If the patient knows the factors that can cause an attack, it will be easier for him to avoid them.

2. Find the best medicine for you.

There are many painkillers on the market today. It is advisable with the help of the attending physician to understand them and find your remedy, which will be most effective. Do not ignore the use of medicinal prophylactic anti-migraine drugs prescribed by a doctor. They should also always be at hand.

3. Review lifestyle.

American scientists from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute found that many migraine sufferers change a certain gene Casein kinase-1delta. This gene plays an important role in controlling the rhythm of sleep and wakefulness. Therefore, neurologists recommend focusing on a structured daily schedule and fixed sleep times. A deviation from your normal sleep rhythm, for example if you sleep much longer than usual on weekends, can trigger an attack. A regulated lifestyle will allow you to organize the correct mode of work and rest, sufficient sleep, systematic walks in the fresh air. It is also worth sticking to a fixed time for eating and drinking. You should get rid of bad habits: do not get involved in alcohol (give up red wine and cognac), quit smoking and drinking coffee in large doses during the day.

4. Remember the benefits of moderate exercise.

Sport is an effective remedy for migraine sufferers. Thanks to him, the overall level of stress hormones and the individual pain threshold are reduced. However, it is very important not to overload yourself during training, otherwise sports can provoke an attack.

5. Fight stress and emotional tension.

Headache patients are often perfectionists who feel responsible for everything and are under tremendous pressure. Strong ambition leads to tension and stress – and can cause migraines with a corresponding tendency. You can minimize emotional stress, experiences with the help of harmless medicines (valerian, for example) or through classes with a psychologist. “In general, it is important for the patient to step out of the role of the victim and even actively respond to pressure, learn to say no,” psychologists say.

6. Periodically carry out rehabilitation in sanatoriums.

Spa treatment is indicated for patients with migraine attacks. Climate change, mineral springs, balneotherapy, massage, physiotherapy and other physical measures of influence on the body have a beneficial effect on a sick person.

7. Consider your diet.

A healthy diet plays a role. Usually patients themselves know their food triggers. More often they include red wine, champagne, smoked meats. Doctors advise people suffering from headaches to minimize the use of hard cheeses. For more information about nutrition for migraine, about new research in this area, read the article Nutrition for migraine. Did you know that, contrary to previous beliefs, chocolate is not among the causative agents of migraine? On the other hand, the overwhelming desire to eat chocolate in migraine sufferers seems to be a harbinger of an imminent attack.

8. Drink enough water.

Dehydration can cause headaches. Drink enough water. Drink mineral water, it not only restores the balance of moisture, but also supplies the cells with important minerals. Mineral water with magnesium and potassium is especially useful. A two-week course of mineral water intake reduces the frequency of seizures by half (according to some authors)

9. Do eye exercises.

If the patient suffers from an ophthalmoplegic form of migraine, it is worth doing eye exercises 1-2 times a day. They relax the eye muscles, improve blood circulation, train the muscles of the eyeball.

10. Prevent weather migraine.

People who suffer from migraines are especially sensitive to certain weather conditions. A study shows that a six degree rise in temperature already causes a 36% increase in migraine attacks. A 20% increase in humidity also increases the number of headaches by about 22%. It is helpful for patients to keep a migraine diary. In it, they record the weather and the time of the headache attacks. Over time, this helps determine which weather is most likely to trigger migraines and headaches. Of course, the weather cannot be changed, but you can take your medicine in time and protect yourself from climatic influences. In addition, weather-sensitive people can do a lot to improve their well-being and prevent headaches. For example, lead a healthy lifestyle, temper yourself, take a contrast shower and play sports in the fresh air.

11. Monitor contraceptive use.

Birth control pills can often make migraines worse.