Migraines can occur anytime and can last for any duration between a few hours or two to three days. They are usually extremely intense and include the sensation of throbbing, sharp pains. They can also be accompanied by nausea, vision disturbance, giddiness, and fatigue. To go through a migraine attack regularly is extremely painful and for many, nauseating and nerve-wracking.

While there is no cure for the condition, they can be prevented and chances of them occurring can be reduced to a huge extent. Given below are some migraine triggers and how to avoid them:

• Stress
  Work towards developing a more positive attitude and try to channel your stress into activities such as swimming, drawing, dancing, etc.
• Weather
  Keep yourself protected from extreme weather and always carry suitable gear with you.
• Alcohol
  Abstain from alcohol as much as possible and if you can, avoid drinking hard liquor altogether.
• Food
  Avoid food that contains caffeine, rich dairy products like cheese, food additives, chocolate, yeast cured meats, and smoked fish.

Today, the goal of medication for migraines is to either relieve symptoms or to prevent an attack. But, the long term use of these medications can have side effects ranging from fatigue, depression, low blood pressure, unsteadiness, hair and weight loss. It is advisable to not discontinue medication without a doctors’ advice. Aside from prescribed medication, you can also opt for home remedies. There are tried and tested methods that help reduce the intensity of migraines and also decrease the chance of having one. Read more about these below.

1. Essential oils
You should carry a few essential oils or pain balms if you are migraine-prone. Inhaling, or applying these essential oils help a lot once you feel the symptoms of a migraine. Today, essential oils are available as roll-on applicators, sprays, and diffusers which are easy to use and you can carry it in with you without any difficulty.

A few of the essential oils that are migraine-friendly are:

• Lavender oil
• Peppermint oil
• Eucalyptus oil
• Rosemary oil
• Chamomile oil

2. Home-based biofeedback
Biofeedback is a technique that individuals can learn and practice to control some of their body’s response to pain. This can be done using small machines that send sensors to make small changes in muscle tension and heart rates. There are many types of biofeedback machines that cater to various health conditions. The one normally used for migraines is electromyogram, which helps control muscle tension and thereby reduce migraines. You can ask your doctor about the use of these machines and you can buy home-based models for convenience.

3. Magnesium and vitamin B12 supplements
Magnesium deficiency has been noticed in many patients suffering from migraines. Include magnesium-rich food and supplements after a proper examination and approval from a doctor. Disruption in the neurotransmitters to the brain can trigger a migraine. Vitamin B12 supplements can regulate the neurotransmitters and bring relief from the condition.

4. Herbal supplements
If you have migraines for more than a day or two, you should reduce the dosage in consultation with the doctor and go in for herbal supplements. Ensure to make your doctor aware of the supplements and seek their recommendation on the ones you pick.

5. Acupuncture
The use of acupuncture for treating pain has gained more momentum after its acceptance by the World Health Organization. Sterilized needles inserted in the pressure points stimulate the nervous system and release endorphins, which is a hormone that reduces pain. This thus helps in alleviating migraine symptoms

Always take supplements or medication under the guidance of a doctor, a certified therapist, or a certified acupuncture practitioner. Combined with good rest, sleep, and a mandatory break from electronics, the effect of migraines can be subdued.