Migraine Matters

Most headaches quickly respond to over-the-counter medications. But if you're among the millions of Americans with migraines, you struggle with a severe pounding that can make you nauseous and sensitive to light and sound.

Women are three times more likely to get migraines than men, according to the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, but when one strikes, it's debilitating for anyone. If painkillers don't help, or migraines are more than once a week, you should see your doctor. They're often related to other health problems, and the more migraines you have, the worse they get.

Prescription medication can be effective in relieving migraine symptoms, but there are other important steps you can take to lower their frequency and make them more bearable when they do occur.

The most important preventive tool is identifying your triggers so you can avoid them. Triggers can be anything from foods to flickering lights or dehydration. When a migraine strikes, write down what you ate, how much you slept and how long it lasted to keep track of possible causes.

Common migraine triggers:

• Skipping meals
• Bright lights
• Loud noises
• Strong odors
• Menstrual cycle points
• Stress
• Alcohol and caffeine
• Change in sleep schedule
• Certain foods
• Artificial sweeteners

Other positive steps you can take include exercising regularly, trying relaxation therapy and eating a healthy diet. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. And keep the same sleep schedule since too little sleep is a common trigger.

Ease a migraine by lying down in a dark, quiet room with a cool cloth on your forehead. Drink water and take a painkiller.

If you take a prescription drug for your migraines, follow the instructions exactly to avoid rebound headaches caused by taking too much.