Talk to your doctor about these options, especially supplements, which can affect the way other medications work:
Acupuncture
This ancient Chinese practice that involves inserting needles along energy points in your body may lower the number of tension headaches you get and could help prevent migraines.
Biofeedback
Biofeedback may improve your headaches by helping you monitor how your body responds to stress. It may help with both tension headaches and migraines, but doctors aren’t exactly sure why.
Butterbur
An extract made from the rhizome or underground stem of this plant may lower the number of migraines you have and make the headaches less severe. Side effects may include belching and other mild tummy troubles.. Be sure to look for supplements that are free from pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are known to cause liver damage and cancer.
Coenzyme Q10
This antioxidant, available as a supplement, may help prevent headaches.
Feverfew
This herb may prevent migraines, but supplements can cause aches, pains, and mouth sores.
Ice. Hold a cold cloth or an ice pack to the painful area on your head or neck. Wrap the ice pack in a towel to protect your skin.
Limit Salt
Eating too many salty foods could also lead to headaches. It’s wise to limit the amount of salt you eat around the time of your period.
Massage
There’s some evidence that shows it can help ease migraines, but again, doctors aren’t exactly sure how it works.
Magnesium
Low levels of this mineral can lead to headaches. Supplements may help. But they can give you diarrhea.
Relaxation Techniques
These include progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and breathing exercises. They can’t hurt, and some experts say they help with headaches, but there isn’t a lot of solid proof.
Riboflavin
Also known as B2, this vitamin may help prevent migraines. It could also turn your pee an intense yellow.
