If you have ever suffered from a migraine, you understand that it’s more than just a headache. Migraines can have significant impact on your productivity, mood and can derail your schedule without notice.
Migraines are more common than you think, affecting about 1 in every 5 women and 1 in every 15 men. We’re giving you the quick answers to some of the most common questions about migraines so you can make the best decisions for your health.
About migraines
What causes a migraine?
Every case is different.
Migraines are the result of abnormal brain activity affecting your nerves and neurotransmitters. Exactly how migraines are triggered is unknown and can vary person to person, but hormonal changes, stress, certain foods or lack of sleep are commonly reported culprits.
Where do migraines hurt?
On one side of your head.
You may occasionally feel pain on both sides of the head when you have a migraine, but the pain will likely feel more intense on one side.
Treating migraines
Is caffeine good for a migraine?
Depends.
Caffeine from coffee, tea or chocolate can either provide relief or trigger a migraine. To know how caffeine is affecting your migraine, monitor your caffeine consumption and keep a journal of how you feel before and after.
Is milk good for a migraine?
Won’t hurt in moderation.
One of the most common causes of headaches is dehydration, so drinking plenty of water or milk and skipping alcohol can prevent migraines. Milk hydrates the body, but also contains important minerals like calcium and potassium that can offset the effects of high sodium diets.
Some migraine sufferers report too much dairy triggering a headache, so it’s important to drink it in moderation as part of the three recommended daily servings of dairy.
What should I eat for a migraine?
Red, orange yellow and green foods that aren’t processed.
Vegetables such as summer squash, sweet potatoes, carrots and spinach are great for your health and generally aren’t viewed as a migraine trigger. Rice, dried fruit and fresh meat are also generally safe to prevent migraines. The key is to skip foods that are overly processed, smoked or pickled.
What are the best home remedies for migraines?
Find ways to de-stress.
Reducing stress can alleviate some of your migraine symptoms. Book a massage, defuse essential oils, or sign up for some yoga. Effective and healthy relaxation methods have been reported to help ease migraine severity and shorten duration.
Most relaxation techniques can be integrated into your lifestyle while taking medication, but it’s important to discuss any new health habits with your doctor.
When should I go to urgent care for a migraine?
If your headache last more than a few hours.
Headaches can range from mild to severe. If you are not experiencing any relief after several hours, it’s worth visiting your neighborhood Indigo Urgent Care. Headache pain can’t wait, so that’s why Indigo Urgent Care offers walk-in appointments and quick online check-in.
A better way to get better
Migraines are more than just a headache. Get the relief and care you need at Indigo Health. Our providers can get you a diagnosis quickly and refer you to a specialist, if needed. Indigo Urgent Care is open every day, 8 am to 8 pm.
