Take pain-relief medication early (NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen; acetaminophen if appropriate)
Consider migraine-specific meds (triptans) if prescribed and taken at the start of symptoms
Use anti-nausea medication if nausea/vomiting is part of your migraine and it’s prescribed
Try a gepant or ditan if prescribed for acute attacks
Use CGRP preventive treatments if you have frequent or disabling migraines (per your clinician’s guidance)
Use preventive medications if you have frequent migraines (beta-blockers, topiramate, valproate, or others as appropriate)
Consider non-drug prevention options (CGRP monoclonal antibodies, botulinum toxin for chronic migraine, neuromodulation devices if available)
Stay hydrated and eat regular meals; avoid skipping meals
Identify and avoid common triggers (alcohol, certain foods, stress, sleep changes, dehydration, bright light, strong odors)
Maintain consistent sleep schedule and manage stress
Use cold therapy (ice pack/cold compress) to the head or neck
Rest in a dark, quiet room and reduce sensory input
Practice relaxation or breathing techniques during an attack
Apply heat to the neck/shoulders if that helps your symptoms
Limit caffeine to small, consistent amounts; avoid caffeine swings
Avoid overusing acute pain medicines (set a limit per medication guidance; discuss thresholds with a clinician)
Keep a migraine diary to track timing, triggers, symptoms, and response to treatments
Seek urgent care if you have “worst headache,” sudden thunderclap onset, weakness/numbness, confusion, fainting, fever/stiff neck, head injury, new neurologic symptoms, or vision loss
Contact a clinician for frequent migraines, migraines that don’t respond to usual treatment, or attacks that are changing in pattern or severity