Ophthalmic migraine is a severe headache accompanied by changes in vision (such as flashes of light and dark spots, which are disorders that fall under the medical definition of "visual aura". In mild cases, it is possible to take painkillers and rest. In severe or more frequent ones, the treatment involves taking drugs and resorting to other symptomatic treatments, but also the adoption of some lifestyle changes. Ophthalmic migraine should not be confused with "retinal" migraine, which involves symptoms of short-term blindness or monocular low vision. Retinal migraine is a sign of a serious health problem. In this case, you should consult your doctor immediately.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Quickly Relieve Migraines
Step 1. Recognize the onset of the aura phase
Ophthalmic migraine is characterized by a series of visual disturbances, known as "visual aura", including difficulty in focusing, the perception of non-existent zigzag lines, stars, etc. They may or may not be accompanied by pain. To be cured, it is necessary to learn to recognize the symptoms of this type of headache.
Usually, the aura phase lasts 10-60 minutes before the migraine starts
Step 2. Take a preventative drug
Your doctor has probably prescribed you a medication (usually triptan or an ergot derivative) to take whenever you start getting migraines. In this case, take it as soon as the aura sets in. By doing this, you can stop the headache, nausea or other symptoms that follow the first stage of the headache.
- The drug could be in the form of pills, fast-dissolving tablets, sprays, or injections.
- Make sure you follow the dosage indicated by your doctor.
- Avoid it if you are pregnant or have uncontrolled heart disease or high blood pressure. Tell your doctor about your medical history before using migraine medications.
Step 3. Rest and stay away from triggers
Even if you are not in pain or have developed a headache, find a quiet, dark place to close your eyes and rest as soon as you start experiencing migraine symptoms. If there are any triggers (such as noises, smells, or work in front of a computer screen), move away. This will also help you relieve migraines.
Even if you can't lie down, the important thing is that you stay away from the glare of the sun, too strong lights and noisy environments
Step 4. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed
If the headache is mild, you can stop it or at least reduce it with a normal adult dose of aspirin, acetaminophen, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium. Follow the instructions in the package insert and do not exceed the maximum recommended dose.
- You can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever that is made up of several molecules, including aspirin, acetaminophen, and caffeine.
- If you are taking other medications, ask your doctor which over-the-counter medications you can use without experiencing unwanted side effects.
Step 5. Put a cold pack on your head to further relieve pain
Dip a clean cloth in cold water. Squeeze it so it doesn't drip, then place it on your forehead or behind your neck. As long as it is cold, leave it in this position for immediate relief.
The cold compress will be effective especially if you lie down in a quiet and dark place
Step 6. Massage the scalp
Spread your fingers and rub your entire head and temples together. Push down with moderate pressure. It is an effective method of relieving mild-severity migraines.
Part 2 of 3: Preventing Migraines with Symptomatic Treatments
Step 1. Ask your doctor for a preventative drug
If you have frequent headaches that do not subside with self-medication, your doctor may prescribe a medication to help prevent them. If your migraine is severe enough to force you to miss school or work, or if you take pain relievers more than twice a week, you may be a great candidate for this preventative therapy. Among the most prescribed consider:
- Some antidepressants;
- Anticonvulsants;
- Beta blockers;
- Calcium channel blockers.
Step 2. Get hormone therapy if your migraine is caused by hormonal changes
In some female subjects, this type of headache appears to be related to the menstrual cycle, while in others it worsens during menopause. In such cases, consult your doctor. He may recommend hormone replacement therapy to prevent the problem.
Trace the symptom kit using a suitable application or by noting the symptoms in a diary. This way, you will know if hormone therapy is an effective help
Step 3. See a therapist if the headaches appear to be related to mental health
Stress, anxiety, and depression are all factors related to migraines. By addressing them, you will be able to eliminate the problem. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and "speech therapy" can be a valuable aid in the treatment of migraine.
- If you don't know who to contact, ask your doctor for a referral to a psychotherapist.
- You can also try neurofeedback.
Part 3 of 3: Changing Your Lifestyle to Prevent Migraines
Step 1. Avoid triggers
Scientists still don't know exactly what causes migraines, but it appears to be linked to environmental factors. Among the triggers, consider too bright lights, annoying noises, intense fumes, sleep disturbances, irregular nutrition and certain foods. If you know the factors that favor your headaches, you can avoid them or learn how to manage them. Eg:
- If your migraine is triggered by strong light, avoid exposing yourself to the sun for too long, staying in brightly lit places, or standing in front of your computer, smartphone, and tablet screens. You can also buy a pair of glasses with colored lenses to block certain wavelengths that could cause you problems.
- If you tend to get headaches when tired, try to get regular rest by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.
Step 2. Avoid behaviors that can make migraines worse
Certain activities and habits can promote or aggravate headaches. By eliminating them, you can avoid the problem.
- Limit your alcohol and caffeine intake. Although some patients feel better by consuming minimal doses of caffeine, caffeine can increase migraines if taken more than 3 times a week.
- Stop smoking.
- Stop using oral contraceptives.
- Don't skip meals.
Step 3. Manage your stress
Many people believe that migraine problems are caused by stress, or at least made worse by this factor. By learning to manage it along with anxiety, you can not only relieve your headaches, but also improve the quality of your life. So, try to:
- Practice physical activity;
- Using deep relaxation techniques;
- Perform breathing exercises;
- Do yoga.
Step 4. Try alternative treatments, such as acupuncture and massage
Acupuncture can help relieve pain, while massage can decrease the frequency of headaches. Each person reacts differently, so choose the treatment that best suits your health condition.
You can also try massaging yourself
Step 5. Take a supplement if your doctor isn't against it
Some vitamins and minerals help prevent migraines. Vitamin B-2 (riboflavin), coenzyme Q10, and magnesium are all great options. Always consult your doctor before starting any dietary supplementation.
Your doctor can help you determine the right dosage for your health needs
Advice
- In the event of a migraine attack, always have medications (over-the-counter or prescription) on hand that help relieve pain.
- Migraine triggers include: anxiety, stress, lack of food or sleep, certain infections (such as those that cause colds and flu), loud noises, bright lights, annoying smells, stress, dehydration or hunger, diet, and certain foods.
- Try applying a cold compress to your forehead. It might relax you.
