What To Do When You Have A Serious Migraine

Any headache is annoying, but a migraine can be truly debilitating. Between the nausea, the confusion, the headache, and the extreme fatigue you experience, you probably won't feel like doing anything other than curling up in a dark, quiet corner. However, it is important to take a few steps in order to better care for yourself and alleviate the migraine.

Establish a comfortable resting place.

You're probably not going to want to get up for at least several hours, so take a few minutes to prepare a cozy area so that you don't have to. Put your migraine medication, a glass of water, and your phone in this area. Pile up some blankets and pillows so you can make yourself comfortable.

Take a migraine medication.

If you have a prescription medication to take at the onset of a migraine, take that. Otherwise, take an over-the-counter migraine remedy. One that contains aspirin and acetaminophen is a good choice. These two pain relievers work in different ways, so they have a stronger effect when combined than when taken separately. Either way, take your medication with a full glass of water. Dehydration can contribute to some migraines, and drinking plenty of water may help you get over the migraine faster.

Drink a caffeinated beverage.

If your migraine medication contains caffeine, skip this step. If it does not contain caffeine, drink a cup of coffee or some soda. Caffeine helps increase the circulation to small blood vessels in your brain, which can help fight off migraine symptoms.

Curl up and relax.

Put on your pajamas and curl up in your dark, cozy corner. Turn your phone off so you're not disturbed by texts and calls. Draw the shades shut to keep light out. If you live with anyone else, tell them not to bother you while you're resting and recovering.

With any luck, your migraine should diminish within a few hours. Get plenty of rest -- you're sure to be tired afterwards, and a nap or a good night's sleep will refresh you.

If at any point during your migraine you experience slurred speech or numbness on one side of your body, have a friend or family member take you to an urgent care facility or to the emergency room. Though these can be symptoms of a migraine, they can also be symptoms of a stroke. You're better off safe than sorry, so seeing a medical professional to confirm that you are only suffering from a migraine is wise.  

Share