What to do about migraine? Causes, symptoms and effective help
What is migraine?
Migraine is more than "just a headache". It is a neurological condition that shows itself in recurring, often very severe headache attacks, frequently accompanied by other distressing symptoms.
Many people experience migraine in recurring episodes that can last from hours to several days. These attacks can severely limit everyday life and are emotionally and physically very distressing for many patients.
It is important to tell it apart from other forms of headache such as cluster headache:
While people with migraine usually need rest, darkness and withdrawal, people with cluster headaches tend to be restless and feel an urge to move.
Typical symptoms of migraine
Migraine can look very different from person to person. Common symptoms are:
- Pulsating, throbbing headache (often on one side)
- Pain that gets worse with movement
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, noise or smells
In about 10–20% of those affected, a so-called migraine with aura occurs. In addition, there are neurological symptoms such as:
- Flickering or visual disturbances
- Tingling or numbness
- Difficulty finding words
What causes migraine? (Triggers)
Migraine arises from a complex interplay in the nervous system. Certain triggers can make attacks more likely:
- Irregular sleep or lack of sleep
- Changes in daily rhythm
- Stress or sudden relaxation (e.g. the start of a holiday)
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Bright light or screen time
- Noise
- Changes in weather or temperature
Important: not every trigger sets off migraine in every person. That is why it is worth recognising your own patterns.
How can you prevent migraine?
A stable lifestyle is one of the most effective foundations:
- A regular sleep-wake rhythm
- Balanced nutrition
- Regular exercise (e.g. strength training or endurance training)
- Stress management (e.g. breathing exercises, relaxation techniques)
A migraine diary can help you recognise connections and counteract them in a targeted way.
What to do during an acute migraine attack?
When an attack begins, one thing counts above all: reducing stimuli and getting quick relief.
Immediate help for migraine
- Withdraw to a quiet, darkened room
- Lie down and minimise stimuli
- Try cold or heat applications
- Take medication early (as recommended by a doctor)
Medication for migraine: using it sensibly
For mild to moderate attacks, so-called NSAIDs are often used (e.g. ibuprofen, diclofenac or acetylsalicylic acid).
For more severe attacks, triptans are often used.
Important:
- Painkillers on a maximum of 10 days per month
- No more than 3 days in a row
- → otherwise there is a risk of medication-overuse headache
Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the right medication and the correct dose.
Home remedies for migraine: what can really help
Many patients also benefit from simple, supportive measures:
Cold and local applications
- Cold flannel on the forehead or neck
- Cooling gel mask (use for short periods)
Peppermint oil
- Apply to the forehead and temples
- Can relieve pain by activating cold receptors
Heat
- Relaxing bath (e.g. with essential oils)
- → especially helpful if cold is unpleasant
Kneipp applications
- Cold water on the legs/feet
- → can influence blood vessel regulation by reflex
Caffeine
- Can boost the effect of painkillers
- → but not suitable with severe nausea
How can physiotherapy help with migraine?
Migraine is complex, and this is exactly where individual physiotherapy comes in.
Aims of treatment:
- Reducing the frequency, duration and intensity of attacks
- Improving physical and mental resilience
- Education and self-management
Possible therapy approaches at KINEO
- Manual therapy in the neck and jaw area
- Trigger point treatment or dry needling
- Relaxation and breathing techniques
- Exercise and training programmes
Many people affected also have tension in the neck and shoulder area that can make migraine worse. Targeted therapy can bring noticeable relief here.
If you suffer from migraine and would like lasting support, individually tailored physiotherapy can make a decisive difference. Book your appointment at KINEO Physiotherapie now and start your path to less pain and a better quality of life.
What matters especially to us: we always look at the whole person, not just the pain. Together we find out which factors influence your migraine and how you can cope better with it in the long term.
When should you seek professional help?
- Frequent or increasing migraine attacks
- Severe limitation in everyday life
- Self-help measures not working well enough
- Uncertainty about the diagnosis or medication
FAQ: frequently asked questions about migraine
What helps fastest with migraine?
Rest, darkness and medication taken early are often the most effective. The earlier you react, the better you can control the attack.
Can migraine be caused by stress?
Yes. Both stress and sudden relaxation can trigger migraine. Good stress management is therefore central.
Is sport good for migraine?
Yes, regular exercise can prevent migraine. It is important to avoid overload and to keep a constant level.
What is the difference between migraine and ordinary headaches?
Migraine is a neurological condition with additional symptoms such as nausea or sensitivity to light. Ordinary headaches are usually less intense and not marked by such accompanying symptoms.
Can physiotherapy really improve migraine?
Yes, especially when muscle tension or stress play a role. Studies show that exercise, education and targeted therapy can have a positive effect on migraine.
The best thing is to book an appointment with us in physiotherapy right here.
