Migraines headaches are generally treated with the prevention of triggers, modification of symptoms (lying in a quiet, dark room), or with pain medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil), aspirin, acetaminophen (Excedrin), or naproxen (Aleve.) All contain anti-inflammatory medication. For more stubborn migraine headaches, prescriptives can be used. Some include ergotamine, sumatriptan (Imitrex), isometheptene (Midrin), and an antidepressant called nortriptyline.
Tension headaches can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, or Excedrin. Modifying bad habits such as straining the eyes, slouching, or sitting in the same spot for too long can also help. Stress reduction can also benefit women who suffer from tension headaches.
Foundations and Societies
These organizations help headache and migraine suffers find needed resources. They provide information, latest research, area doctors, fundraising information, as well as message boards, chat rooms, and contacts for patients, families, and friends. A prominent organization is the National Headache Foundation.
A great way to find such organizations is to search online. A majority of disorders have societies, and a majority of societies have websites. Key the disorder (headache or migraine) into a search engine and browse the websites that come up. Within the websites, look for information about local chapters.
Counseling
Chronic conditions can cause emotional problems. Dealing with headaches and migraines means coping with inconvenience, chronic pain, and misunderstanding from others. This can wear on a patient's emotional wellbeing. Even medications for pain can contribute to depression and anxiety.
To deal with such issues, it's sometimes necessary to meet with a psychological therapist. Although each type is beneficial, not all therapists are designed for the same kind of treatment. The more education a therapist has (example: a psychiatrist), the more likely they deal with the scientific side of therapy, such as administering medication. Social workers, on the other hand, deal with therapy as well as community outreach and aid. Local therapists and social workers can counsel and treat people with chronic headaches and migraines.
Alternative Headache and Migraine Remedies
Acupuncture
More and more people are benefiting from the Asian tradition of acupuncture. These days, trained doctors, physiotherapists, and/or nurses can administer this therapy. Tiny sterile needles are positioned into the skin at specific points in the body, according to the illness; needles are positioned uniquely for migraine headaches. “Western” acupuncture uses the above-trained professionals, but migraine suffers can also seek “traditional”, or Eastern acupuncture, which is administered by a trained acupuncturist.
Relaxation
This therapy is simple and autonomous: no need for outside manipulation or treatment! It includes the practices of deep breathing, yoga, tai chi, muscle relaxation, and meditation. Whatever helps you relax can work. You can also try positive visualization (thinking of something that makes you happy) or lying quietly and still for a while. Self-hypnosis, or deep relaxation, can be learned to provide this same benefit.
