Diet and Health FAQ

Tagged As: Migraine Relief

Question:
An online friend asked if there were any migraine and sinus remedies, preferably non-prescription (because she is sensitive to many meds) that she could do or take while nursing. She is interested in herbal treatments (oral, inhaled, or external) or any other more natural remedies. She is truly in alot of pain, to the point of nausea, and would appreciate any suggestions! I thought I would ask here, not only because you are nursing mothers and know what to avoid during breastfeeding, but because you are also a large cross-section of women and may know of something helpful! Anyone have any ideas?

Answer:
Can't help with natural ones. (Feverfew is used for prevention, but not recommended while nursing. Magnesium and vitamin B2 also have their fans as migraine prevnetives, though they won't treat a migraine that's already happening.) ) She can certainly try things like a cup of strong coffee, resting in a dark room, cold packs (or hot, whichever feels better), but I won't guarantee their results. Medicine-wise, Hales approved Imitrex for use while nursing. Tylenol 3 or vicodin (tylenol plus some sort of codeine) is also safe, as it Fiorcet (tylenol, caffeine and butalbitol.) She will need a prescription for these, however. OTC, she may get relief from extra-stregnth exedrin (also sold as Exedrine migraine, though they are exactly the same drug, being a combo of tylenol, asprin and caffeine.) Do urge her to see her doctor. There is so much that can be done for migraine these days that she doesn't have to suffer. Even if she is sensitive to some medications, there is very likely something that will help her.