Migraine Day: How to relieve headaches without medication?

Migraine has established itself as one of the most common neurological disorders worldwide. It is not just a headache, but a debilitating condition that limits daily life and affects the productivity of millions of people.

Every September 12th, World Migraine Day is commemorated, a date intended to raise awareness of this health problem and promote prevention and support strategies.

The event seeks to remind us that pain should not be normalized and that there are alternatives to alleviate it and improve the quality of life of those who suffer from it.

Migraine is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of throbbing pain that can last from four to 72 hours. Unlike a common headache, it often presents with associated symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and even visual disturbances known as "aura."

Their impact goes beyond physical discomfort. Attacks affect concentration, reduce work and academic performance, and require interruption of daily activities. Therefore, migraines are considered one of the leading causes of temporary disability in people of working age, especially young women.

Migraines don't have a single, defined cause, but they are associated with a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. The nervous system of those who suffer from them shows increased sensitivity to certain stimuli, which triggers inflammatory processes and disrupts communication between neurons.

Common triggers include lack of sleep, hormonal changes, excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption, prolonged fasting, and certain foods such as chocolate, aged cheeses, or cured meats . Other factors include changes in weather, bright lights, and strong odors.

Recognizing these triggers is key to establishing routines that reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks. Keeping a record of episodes helps identify patterns and implement preventive measures.

Stress is one of the factors that most contributes to the onset of migraines. Prolonged worry, work overload , and lack of rest create an imbalance in the body that can trigger the pain.

Muscle tension also plays an important role. When the neck and shoulder muscles remain contracted for hours, pressure increases in the cervical spine, which can further stimulate the nervous system.

For this reason, techniques such as relaxation, deep breathing, and regular gentle physical activity are beneficial. Reducing daily stress doesn't eliminate migraines, but it does help make episodes less frequent and less intense.

Migraine treatment is divided into two main approaches: symptom relief during the attack and prevention of future attacks. Both are complementary and depend on the frequency and intensity of the pain.

For immediate relief, common painkillers, anti-inflammatories, and, in more complex cases, specific medications known as triptans are used . These drugs help reduce pain and associated symptoms, such as nausea and sensitivity to light.

In the preventive setting, some patients require daily treatment with drugs that regulate nervous system activity and reduce the frequency of episodes. This decision should be made under the guidance of a specialist.

Complementary therapies also play an important role. Physiotherapy, acupuncture, massage, and meditation practices can reduce muscle tension and improve quality of life.

Migraine is not just a headache, but a neurological condition that can significantly affect daily life. Recognizing its symptoms, identifying triggers, and seeking specialized care are essential steps for proper management.

With the right combination of medical treatment, healthy habits, and stress management strategies, it's possible to reduce the frequency and intensity of episodes. This way, sufferers can regain their quality of life and face daily life with greater well-being.

DIGITAL REACH EDITORIAL