Ah, migraine – the uninvited guest that crashes our party with pounding head pain, sensitivity to light, and an overall sense of "why me?" While migraine can disrupt our plans, there are plenty of non-pharmacological tricks up our sleeves to show it who's boss. Let’s explore some natural approaches to managing migraine and light sensitivity symptoms that you can add to your daily routine.
Detective Work: Unmasking the Migraine Culprits
One of the first steps in managing migraine is identifying triggers such as certain foods, stress, lack of sleep, or environmental factors like bright lights or strong odors. Is it the strong scent of your coworkers’ perfume? The dreaded glare of your computer screen? By identifying and avoiding these triggers, you may be able to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.
Stay Hydrated and Maintain a Healthy Diet
Let's face it – our bodies are like needy houseplants that wilt without proper hydration and nourishment. So, keep that water bottle handy and stock up on your favorite migraine-friendly snacks to help keep you going throughout the day.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Stress and migraine go together like peanut butter and jelly – except, you know, not as delicious. So, kick stress to the curb with some relaxation techniques that'll help you feel calm and centered. Whether it's meditation, yoga, or just doing as little as possible for a day, find what soothes your soul and stick with it.
Getting Enough Sleep
Poor sleep habits can exacerbate migraine symptoms, so ensuring you get enough rest each night is crucial. Establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine before bed can promote better sleep quality.
Stay Active
Exercise doesn't have to be a dreaded chore – think of it as a dance party with your body as the DJ! Whether you're busting a move in a Zumba class or taking a leisurely stroll in the park, getting those endorphins pumping can work wonders.
Cool as a Cucumber: Ice, Ice, Baby
When a migraine strikes, it's time to break out the big guns – or, in this case, the cold compress. Pop one on your noggin or neck for comfort that'll have you feeling cooler than the other side of the pillow.
Consider Wearable Technology
Axon Optics and CEFALY both offer innovative wearable devices that you might want to consider.
Axon Optics Powered By Avulux® Migraine & Light Sensitivity Lenses
Avulux is the only clinically proven lens for people living with migraine and light sensitivity. Avulux's patented precision lens technology filters up to 97% of blue, amber, and red light while allowing in over 70% of soothing green light.
CEFALY
The clinically proven CEFALY device works by targeting the primary pathway for migraine pain: the trigeminal nerve. It uses external trigeminal nerve stimulation (eTNS) — a precise electrical impulse — to stimulate and desensitize the trigeminal nerve, relieving migraine pain and reducing the frequency of attacks.
By integrating these approaches into your daily routine, you can take proactive steps to improve your overall well-being. Not all of these will work for everyone so try them and see what’s best for you. Embracing lifestyle changes, incorporating relaxation techniques, and trying out innovative non-pharmacological devices like Axon Optics powered by Avulux Migraine & Light Sensitivity Lenses and CEFALY can give you a range of options to help you get back to doing what you love.
