Anyone who has ever felt distress from extreme, debilitating headaches has wondered how to cure migraines. Some sufferers will get what’s called a migraine with aura and see flashes of light before the actual headache comes on and some will endure a migraine for days. Most will be bothered by bright light, loud noises and pain so sharp it’s enough to cause nausea and vomiting if not treated. But there are ways to put an end to migraines.

Try to remember what was happening before the migraine came on. There are many causes. Some common examples include: excessive bright light, noise sensitivity, sulfites and chemical additives in food such as wine and aged cheese, hormonal changes in a woman’s monthly cycle, certain perfumes and colognes, chemicals in household cleaners, sleep disturbances, and stress. Are any of these culprits recognizable? Do any of these situations crop up every time a migraine occurs? Recognizing some of the reasons why a migraine happens will make it a lot easier to avoid a painful episode in the future and may even prevent them.

If a migraine is not avoidable it is best to treat the headache as soon as possible and not try to endure the pain. It will only get worse as any doctor or other migraine sufferer will warn. Over-the-counter medicine such as acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen will work if taken during the beginning stages of a migraine. Some find simple remedies such as ice and massage work best.

Do not take herbs without consulting a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) as over-the-counter herbal remedies are not evaluated or regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA often warns consumers they cannot guarantee the efficacy of herbs. Also try to avoid over-the-counter headache medicine that contains caffeine. These pills may work temporarily since caffeine will constrict the dilated blood vessels in the base of the skull and head during a migraine, but due to caffeine’s addictive qualities, rebound headaches are a risk.

For those who endure migraine headaches on a regular basis despite trying to eliminate triggers, a migraine prevention medication may be the best course of action. A visit with a neurologist will determine if a migraine sufferer is a good candidate for this type of medicine. Neurologists also have the ability to discover migraine types, causes, and best course of treatment. They know exactly how to cure migraines that otherwise cannot be prevented.