Since migraines are so widespread, migraine relief is an important issue for many people. There are approaches that can be used to relieve pain that is associated with mild-to-moderate headaches, as well as to relieve more severe pain caused by migraines. Medications such as acetaminophen, NSAIDs, and triptans are commonly used to provide migraine relief, as are natural methods, such as herbs or acupuncture.
An Overview of Migraine Relief Options
Migraine headaches are considered one of the most debilitating diseases in the world by the World Health Organization. In the United States, it is estimated that nearly 28 million people suffer from migraines. With so many people suffering from migraines, it is no wonder that
migraine relief is an important concern. Yet, it can also be confusing, because there are so many choices available.
For most people with migraines, pain relief from an acute migraine headache begins with medicine. Some of these medicines are available over the counter, while others require a prescription. For those with more severe or frequent migraines, medicine is also available to prevent them in the first place.
But which one is right for you, and are natural relief options also available for people with migraines? The fact is that there is no universal migraine treatment that works for everyone. Migraine treatments must be tailored to the individual based on the frequency and severity of
migraine symptoms, as well as a person's other medical conditions and individual needs.
Acute Migraine Relief for Mild-to-Moderate Headaches
People who get occasional mild-to-moderate migraines may benefit by taking certain medicines at the start of an attack. Your healthcare provider can recommend one of several medications. Some are available over the counter; others require a prescription.
Some examples of medications used for the treatment of infrequent migraines that are mild-to-moderate in severity include:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol®)
- Aspirin (Ecotrin®, Bayer®, Anacin®)
- A combination of aspirin, acetaminophen, and caffeine (Excedrin® Extra Strength, Excedrin® Migraine)
- A combination of isometheptene mucate, chloralphenazone, and acetaminophen (Midrin®, Migratine®)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®, Advil® Migraine) or many others, including:
During a migraine headache, temporary relief can sometimes be obtained by applying cold packs to the head or by pressing on the bulging artery found in front of the ear on the painful side of the head. Stress management techniques, such as relaxation and massage, can also help limit pain.
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