With such an extensive number of migraine treatments on the market, it is understandable why many migraine sufferers feel lost. While there are hundreds of prescription options your doctor may opt for, there are also a vast number of over-the-counter treatments and natural remedies for migraines available. Some treatments are preventative, meaning that they should reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. These are taken daily. However, when a migraine hits, you want to get rid of it, which is what abortive treatments are designed for.
Painkillers are abortive medications, and can be obtained over-the-counter or through a prescription. Though not designed to treat migraines, some narcotics may be prescribed in cases of extreme pain. While these can be very effective in relieving pain, they can be habit forming. Even over-the-counter analgesics, taken over extended periods of time can damage the body. Frequent use of any painkiller will also increase tolerance, meaning you need to take more to find relief, adding to health risks. Your body can become dependent on painkillers and this can cause even more migraines.
If you follow a migraine treatment plan that focuses on prevention, you can reduce the need to rely on painkillers. Whether you choose to take prescription medications, or if you want to take a more holistic approach, you can develop methods of controlling migraine frequency. Doctors may prescribe medications which are believed to reduce migraine frequency and severity. This is usually done for patients who have at least one migraine a week. If your migraines are less frequent, you may want to consider alternative migraine treatments. These include stress management techniques, aromatherapy, and massage. Acupuncture has been proven to be effective in migraine treatment, with relief lasting for months in some cases. Some herbal remedies and dietary supplements have also shown promise in migraine treatment. However, it is important that you discuss any alternative treatments with your health care provider, as they can have risks.
If you have been treating your migraines with painkillers, it is important that you do not quit suddenly. It is important to talk to your physician about how to best treat your migraines. It may be fine for you to take a few pills if your attacks are infrequent. However, there may be much better treatments available for you.