- Keeping a diary:A diary can help an individual determine
what triggers the migraine attack. Writing down when a migraine attack begins,
how long each phase lasts, responses to medications, foods eaten in the 24
hours preceding an attack, any unusual stresses before the attack, and how the
individual feels and what they were doing when a migraine attack begins is
important.
- Dietary factors:Identifying and avoiding foods that
consistently trigger headaches may be important in helping to reduce the
occurrence of migraine headaches. Eat meals at regular times daily and do not
skip meals.
- Stress reduction: Integrative therapies that reduce stress,
such as yoga, therapeutic touch, and relaxation techniques, are important in
reducing migraine attacks.
- Regular sleep patterns: It is important for migraine
sufferers to get adequate consistent sleep every night. Healthcare
professionals generally recommend eight hours of uninterrupted sleep nightly.
- Regular exercise: Regular aerobic exercise reduces tension
and can help prevent migraines. If a doctor agrees, choosing an aerobic
exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, may help decrease migraine
attacks. Warm up slowly, however, because sudden, intense exercise can cause
headaches.
- Caffeine intake reduction: Limiting caffeine consumption to
less than two caffeine-containing beverages a day may be of benefit for
reduction of migraine attacks.
- Light modification: Avoiding bright or flashing lights, and
wearing sunglasses, if sunlight is a trigger, may help reduce migraine attacks.
- Smoking cessation: Smoking cessation is important in
decreasing migraine attacks, as smoke can be a potential allergen that triggers
a migraine. Also, nicotine, one of the components of tobacco, stimulates
vascular activity in the brain that may trigger a migraine attack.
Copyright ‚© 2007 Natural Standard Inc.
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