Resources

A migraine trigger is anything that consistently results in a headache. Common triggers include stress, lack of sleep, caffeine, and hormones, but can also include things like weather changes, dehydration and certain smells. It’s important to keep a headache diary, be observant, and find patterns with regards to events that surround your headaches.

The most important factor in stopping a migraine is early recognition. The earlier you treat a migraine, the more likely the treatment will work. For that reason, it is important to have a plan set up in advance. This means working out what you are going to do when a headache starts. It’s important to make this a simple plan, so this should be a simple plan. If this involves medications, make sure you have the medication available — this means having medication at your desk at work, in your medication cabinet, or in the glove compartment of your care. It is also important to have a place you can go when you get a headache (such as a dark, quiet space) and to education your friends, family or co-workers about the accommodations you may require. Finally, it is important to have a backup plan in case the headache is more severe than anticipated. These details can be worked up with your headache doctor during an initial medical consultation.

Lifestyle changes are very important for headache care. In broad strokes, migraine sufferers do best when they have a routine. Regular sleep patterns, regular meal times, and regular exercise are all key in preventing migraines. Often, modest management of lifestyle factors can result in significant decreases in the frequency and severity of headaches.

Abortive medications (also called rescue medications) are used to stop a headache that is hurting right now. Abortive medications are most effective when taken early on in the headache. Some abortive medications can be bought over the counter, but more potent and effective medications are usually only available by prescription. The choice of abortive medication depends on several factors, including comorbidities, frequency of headaches, duration of headaches, and tolerance of medication side effects. It’s important to note that there are non-medication based treatments for migraine rescue.

Migraine rescue refers to treatments designed at stopping a headache that is already present (or in full force). This is different from migraine prophylaxis, which is designed to prevent or decrease the severity and frequency of headaches. Migraine rescue is typically handled using medication, but there are some non-pharmacologic treatments available for people who (1) cannot tolerate medications, or (2) do not want to take medication.