Pain Relief

• If you only experience milder, occasional migraines, consider simply using over-the-counter pain-relief medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. If your migraines are more severe, talk to your doctor about a prescription. The most-used options include triptan medications---such as Imitrex, Zomig, Maxalt, Amerge, or Axert---which work by constricting blood vessels in the brain and reducing pressure on sensitive endings there. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, weakening and a tightened feeling in the chest area. Discuss all possible side effects and drug interactions with your doctor.
  
  

Other Medications

• If you suffer from frequent migraines, your doctor may prescribe preventive medications, which can include antidepressants, beta blockers, antihistamines, anti-seizure medications or even Botox. Some of these medications carry potentially serious side effects, so carefully weigh the benefits versus the risks with your health-care professional.
  
  

Home Remedies

• Sometimes simply relaxing can help ease migraine symptoms. Try gentle stretching or yoga exercises. Take a warm bath. If possible, rest in a quiet, dark room for the duration of your migraine. Some people also find relief by applying a cold pack to the head. If your migraines are triggered by certain foods, focus on eliminating those foods from your diet. Try keeping a food "diary" to track what you've eaten that may have triggered the migraine. You may also find that skipping meals can trigger migraines.
  
  

Alternative Remedies

• If you prefer to avoid taking medications for your migraines, try some alternative therapies. You may find pain relief using acupuncture or reflexology. Biofeedback can help you learn to regulate your physical responses to stress. Ask your doctor about taking butterbur or feverfew, herbs that may help reduce the intensity and frequency of your migraines; however, do not take these herbs if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.