Migraines?

Question

Any ideas on treating migraines? Ibuprofen works well for me, but I am getting an ulcer from using so much. Thanks.

The One is a really dispicable person, eh?
Had to report him for abuse. I would sure hate to see his sorry excuse for a human removed from this site : )

Answer 1

There are many different treatments for migraines. Often doctors recommend trying a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) first, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. NSAIDs have fewer side effects than migraine drugs. You may also try to reduce the number of migraines you experience by identifying and avoiding triggers that lead to migraines.

If NSAIDs do not effectively treat your migraines, your doctor may suggest prescription drugs that treat or prevent migraines:

Certain headache drugs known as triptans (such as Imitrex, Amerge, and Axert) are often used to treat a migraine as it is starting.
Preventive headache drugs such as propranolol (for example, Inderal), divalproex (Depakote), or tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline or nortriptyline) are used to prevent migraines in some people who get them regularly.
Nontraditional treatments, such as acupuncture or the herb feverfew, may be added to drug treatment to help reduce headache pain or the number of migraines you experience, although more research is needed to confirm whether these alternative therapies actually work.

You may be able to reduce frequent migraines by avoiding triggers, such as certain foods, stress, and changes in your daily routine, although it is not clear how or why these events lead to migraines. Some common triggers of migraines include:

Consuming certain substances such as chocolate, monosodium glutamate (MSG), red wine, and caffeine.
Getting too much or not enough sleep.
Fasting or skipping meals.
Changes in the weather or barometric pressure.
Stress or intense emotions.
Strong odors or cigarette smoke.
Bright lights or reflected sunlight.

Answer 2

I have suffered from migraines since I was 10 years old-I am now 50 so I have had 40 years experience. I do know a bit about them. First, you can have a migraine at any time. There is no set pattern-I have gone months and even years without having a single migraine. There are many migraine triggers. Hormones play a big part. That is why women suffer from migraines 3 times more than men. A week before your period is the worst time. I found that birth control pills helped me. Also, sinus problems and allergies as well as hot weather can trigger migraines. Certain foods can also be a trigger-chocolate and sugar are the number 1 offenders. Cheese can also do it. Watch your stress level too. Ask your Doctor about the triptan drugs such as imitrex and maxalt. These are very effective-they are expensive though. I have found that 2 regular excedrin works pretty good most of the time-the trick is to take medicine before your headache gets to bad. Good luck.

Answer 3

Depends on whether or not hormones are part of the problem. Do you get them once a month or all the time? You may want to check out the symptoms link at www.hufa.org to see if you have other symptoms of low blood sugar - or sugar imbalance of any sort - as that will definitely make migraines worse, if not cause them in the first place.

Answer 4

You are lucky you can get away with ibuprofen for your migraines. Tylenol 3 used to work for me. Most meds seem to affect the stomach and liver though. Migraine specific meds such as imitrex, maxalt, emerge, etc. work really well. You take them at the first sign of a migraine.

Answer 5

Ive been taking Hydrocodone (vicodin) for a couple weeks, works wonders on migraines although only available by prescription, and HIGHLY addictive.

Answer 6

http://gottaheadache.com/

This is my headache doctor's website. I am diagnosed with chronic migraine and migraine associated vertigo. Her treatment program has changed my life. I started by reading her book and went from there. Enjoy!

Answer 7

You could try a natural product as it has no side effects. PastTense®, dōTERRA®'s proprietary blend for tension and the discomforts associated with headaches, provides calming comfort with the strength of CPTG® essential oils of wintergreen, lavender, peppermint, frankincense, cilantro, marjoram, roman chamomile, basil, and rosemary. Packaged for convenient application in a roll-on bottle. For aromatic and topical use.

I use it as well as my husbands and both our kids and it works instantly. You apply it to your temples, across your forehead and along the back of your neck. It absorbs and leaves no residue. It is all essential oils that are pure and high quality. You can use this anywhere and without the need of any water to wash anything down...just roll on skin and go! Best of luck!

Answer 8

Headache is a pain in the head, scalp or
neck. Headaches can becaused by minor problems like
eyestrain, lack of coffee or moreserious reasons like
head injury, brain tumors, encephalitis andmeningitis.
Taking painkillers continuously can have harmful side
effects, so it is better to modify your lifestyle. More information
available at http://tinyurl.com/q8696

Answer 9

Caffeine, drink coffee. Make sure you stay away from bright lights. When it gets bad, go to bed in a dark room and put a cold face cloth on your head.

Answer 10

I like excedrine. Works very good when I need it to.