When Migraines Attack

Managing a migraine attack is, of course, the goal. But even if you follow all the recommendations -- exercise regularly, stick to a regular sleep schedule, eat a healthy diet, maybe even take medication to prevent migraines -- sooner or later you may find yourself caught in the grip of a migraine. When that happens, you'll want to do everything possible to treat the pain, nausea, if any, and other migraine associated symptoms.

Take Action

If you experience an aura, a warning that a migraine is on its way, use some of the following strategies right away to ward off severe symptoms. If you are like the majority of migraine sufferers who do not have warning signals like auras, put these strategies into place as soon as possible so that you can get back to your normal activities within a reasonable time frame.

• Cool down: Wrap a cold pack and hold it against the painful site for 10 minutes. Wait 20 minutes, then repeat. You can use a bag of ice or frozen vegetables or a can of soda as a source of cold.
• Drink, drink, drink: Try to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. If you are nauseated, sip some soda that has gone flat (the bubbles may irritate your stomach).
• Take a nap: Take some time to relax and drift off to sleep, if possible.
  

Lower your sensory input: Retreat to a quiet, dark room to avoid noise and bright lights.

Enjoy a massage: If someone is around who can rub your shoulders, neck, and scalp, ask. If not, give yourself a gentle head massage with a hairbrush, as long as this is not painful for you.

Stay on Track with Your Plan

Follow your doctor's recommended treatment plan for management of an acute migraine. If you don't have a plan, call your doctor and set an appointment to discuss your migraines and the best way to handle them.

If you have prescription medication to help alleviate your migraine symptoms, be sure to take it as directed to get the maximum benefit. Keep a dose on hand for when you are out as well, so that you won't have to delay proper treatment.

After a migraine attack, note in your headache dairy what steps seemed to provide relief. This information may help you and your doctor identify the best way to treat another attack.