Economy Making Your Head Hurt? Simple Migraine Cures

What's the best recipe to combat a migraine? Doctors say it's all about playing offense.

If you've ever had a migraine, you know how crippling and extremely painful they can be. The brain's blood vessels swell, causing nausea and changes in vision.

Dr. Melissa Mark from the Fairview Uptown Clinic says a migraine is different from a simple textbook headache.

"It's a specific type of headache. Usually people have a throbbing, and it can come on gradually and get worse if you cough or sneeze."

Migraines can even strike kids as young as two years old. They're usually brought on by stress, lack of sleep, and even certain foods like cheese, chocolate or wine.

"Sometimes people under stress drink too much alcohol, therefore they could have more headaches," says Dr. Mark.

For some, popping an Excedrin or other medication with caffeine works. But if you don't want to resort to drugs, there are a few things you can do to prevent headaches.

Doctors suggest, avoid skipping meals, changing your diet, and focus on relaxing.

"You could get a massage. Yyou could send the kids to the neighbors' house for 20 minutes, you can just sit down and think. Those might help, and recognize it for the stress it might be."

Exercise or even a brisk walk can help clear the mind. But if it's too late, your best bet is to go straight to bed, in a dark, quiet room.

If your gut tells you it could be a more serious problem, always make an appointment with your doctor.