The use of oral contraceptives or menopausal hormones is also linked to migraines. Avoidance of triggering factors and effective stress management is the first line of defense for migraine sufferers. Occasional or milder attacks may be managed with rest or ice packs, but severe incapacitating attacks typically require prescription medication for effective relief. Some of these medications are administered during an attack, while others are taken on a regular basis to decrease or prevent the occurrence of migraines. Biofeedback may also be helpful.
Attacks occur daily in clusters of weeks or months , then disappear completely for months or years.
See your doctor if you think you have a cluster headache. This may cause symptoms to worsen instead of improve. See your doctor if you are taking maximum recommended doses without relief. Most people who think they have sinus headaches actually suffer from tension headaches or migraines. If your headaches are persistent, frequent or do not respond to over the counter medication, it is important to contact your healthcare professional.