Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Lifestyle modifications recommended for patients experiencing frequent migraines include:
- Keeping a headache diary to record the frequency, duration, and severity of headaches, which helps monitor triggers and the effectiveness of interventions.
- Avoiding medication overuse by limiting the use of acute headache medications such as triptans, opioids, ergots, paracetamol, aspirin, and NSAIDs to prevent medication overuse headache.
- Recognising and managing menstrual-related migraine by tracking migraine occurrence in relation to the menstrual cycle.
- Providing education and support about migraine as a valid medical disorder, including information on risk factors and management options.
- Considering non-pharmacological approaches such as acupuncture if prophylactic medications are unsuitable or ineffective.
- Advising on the possible benefit of riboflavin (400 mg once daily) as a supplement to reduce migraine frequency and intensity for some people.
These lifestyle and self-management strategies are important components of migraine management alongside any pharmacological treatments.
References: NICE CG150