Migraine headaches are such a disabling condition for so many people. For those that suffer from them, looking for some sort of migraine headache relief is a priority in helping improve their quality of life. Sufferers are willing to try almost anything to escape from the excruciating pain they can bring. Luckily, the following treatments have proven very effective for migraine relief:

1. Botox injections
Botox injections have been shown to reduce the number of days that chronic migraine sufferers experience painful headaches. For those that take this route, over half indicate that the number of migraines was reduced by about half when they take the full amount of treatments. This method is thought to work because it creates a block between the neurotransmitters and the nerve endings so the chemicals are not able to get to those areas that can cause pain in the neck and the head. This treatment requires a series of shots about once every 12 weeks in order to provide relief. The shots are administered around both the head and neck and may take several weeks to gain full effect.

2. Tricyclic antidepressants
There has also been some reduction of both severity and frequency of migraines through the use of various antidepressants. They appear to work by having an impact on the level of serotonin as well as other chemicals located in the brain. The only type of antidepressants that seem to have these healing properties are tricyclic antidepressants. Antidepressants can have side effects that may make this an undesirable option for some.

3. Beta blockers
Beta-blockers are generally taken for the reduction of blood pressure, however, they also appear to be effective for migraine prevention. They work by relaxing blood vessels. For migraines, this works because there is a reduction of the blood flow in the brain, and as a result, also a relaxing of the cerebral blood vessels. They also have an effect on other areas of the brain that work to reduce the prevalence of migraines.

4. NSAIDS
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are the go-to for many people when they are affected by a migraine. The convenience of these is attractive since many can be purchased over-the-counter. There are some popular options that are prescriptive strength as well. These include ingredients such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium. NSAIDS do not have a high potential for overuse headaches, however, they can be quite irritating to the stomach lining. They can also cause issues with the kidneys and liver if overused, as well as some other side effects such as diarrhea or heartburn. These medications can be helpful with migraines, however, they seem to be more effective if they are taken at the beginning of the attack.

5. Neuromodulation
Because of some of the side effects of the medication used in preventing or treating migraines, neuromodulation is becoming more and more popular. Nerve stimulation of the transcutaneous supraorbital area is being used for acute migraines. Results have shown variable outcomes. These methods are non-invasive and also create very few side effects. Occipital nerve stimulation is more invasive and is showing to provide better relief for those with severe headaches that are not being controlled effectively through other methods.

As with any medical issue, migraine doctors would be able to provide the most up-to-date options for migraine sufferers. Since there are several possibilities, trial and error may be needed in order to find the best migraine treatment for each particular person. Everyone is different and responds in their own way to various remedies. Ask your doctor to connect you with a migraine specialist today to learn more.