Tips that can help you manage your migraines

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      (This story is written in partnership with .)

      Migraines are horrible, which is why iMD Health has partnered with Migraine Canada to share tips that can help you prevent and treat the debilitating headaches. Along with pulsating head pain, migraines often cause nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, strong smells, and sound.

      If you’re familiar with spending hours sitting in a dark, silent storage room at your office, you’ll likely find these seven tips provided by Migraine Canada quite helpful.

      Try medications that aren’t taken orally

      According to Migraine Canada, medications that bypass the gut are absorbed quicker. Consider speaking with your doctor about other relief options such as nasal sprays, suppositories, or injections.

      Combine different medications to resolve symptoms

      For those who experience severe or frequent migraines, combining acute medications could be beneficial. Speak with your doctor about taking multiple medications to separately treat all the symptoms you experience with your migraine. It is extremely important to consult your health-care provider before combining different medications. For more information on potential combinations, visit the Migraines page on .

      Consider alternative treatments

      Trying alternative migraine treatments like Botox injections, acupuncture, and cannabis could provide you with some much-needed relief. Botox injections around your jaw, head, and neck can reduce the frequency and intensity of your migraines—there’s no need to panic, the Botox will not alter your appearance.

      According to iMD Health, more research is required in order to determine the impacts of cannabis use on those who experience migraines. However, CBD and THC can affect the brain’s receptors in many different ways that vary based on the person. Since cannabis is a natural substance with minimal side effects, it may be worth a try before starting medications prescribed by your doctor.

      Acupuncture is another safe alternative for those hoping to decrease the intensity and frequency of their migraines. Acupuncture practitioners will gently place needles along your body’s pressure points, including the spot between your thumb and index finger. Migraine sufferers can explore treatment options through the interactive Migraine Tree tool on iMD Health’s Migraine page.

      Maintain a migraine diary

      By keeping track of your diet, water intake, exercise, mood, the weather, and the details surrounding your migraines, it will be easier to identify your triggers. Additionally, your doctor will have a better understanding of your migraine patterns, which can result in a more effective treatment plan. Visit for a printable migraine diary template.

      Reduce stress through meditation and adequate sleep

      Stress and exhaustion are common migraine triggers so it’s imperative that you listen to your body. Try setting aside some time each day for meditation or yoga. When it comes to sleep, make sure that you’re getting at least seven hours of sleep per night to avoid migraines caused by insufficient rest. 

      Minimize your caffeine intake

      Caffeine is truly a blessing and a curse. Some people find that a cup of coffee or energy drink temporarily relieves their migraine symptoms as caffeine can reduce inflammation. But having too much caffeine can trigger a migraine for many. Be mindful of your caffeine intake and swap coffee for a glass of water if you feel a headache coming on.

      Start a targeted supplement regimen

      According to iMD Health, specific supplements can help prevent migraines, like magnesium citrate or glycinate, vitamin B2, coenzyme Q10, petasites hybridus butterbur, and tanacetum parthenium, better known as feverfew. If you’re taking medication, consult with your doctor before starting a supplement regimen to rule out any potential interactions.

      Visit the Migraines page on for video resources, interactive tools, and other informative materials.

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