Headache pain can range from an annoyance to excruciating, and in some cases the headache will also affect other parts of the body. This can include interfering with vision, hearing or balance, as well as causing nausea or vomiting. These headaches are known as migraines, which can leave a person sensitive to light and sound while unable to function. One home remedy for migraines is to consume caffeine. Some people may find that their migraine pain is relieved through the caffeine contained in coffee, though this method is not a substitute for a physician's care.
Choosing the Right Coffee
Coffee contains caffeine, which is a vasoconstrictor. Vasoconstrictors shrink blood vessels throughout the body, which can help relieve pressure in the head that is causing a migraine. To get the best results, drinking the correct type of coffee is important. A strong, bold blend of caffeinated black coffee is recommended. Weaker coffee may not contain as much caffeine. Decaffeinated coffee will not be as effective in treating migraines as it does not contain the key ingredient to shrink the blood vessels. Brew a strong cup of coffee to treat migraines.
Quantity
The amount of caffeine needed to relieve migraine pain varies from person to person, as individuals have varying levels of caffeine sensitivity. To avoid drinking too much coffee and receiving excessive amounts of caffeine, begin with a small amount and gradually increase consumption as needed. You can start with half a cup if you are sensitive to caffeine. Generally, one to two cups of coffee should be sufficient to treat a migraine.
Large amounts of caffeine can cause rebound headaches, which can worsen the intensity of the migraine. Regular caffeine consumption may also lead to withdrawal headaches when your body does not receive caffeine.
Timing
Early intervention is key when using coffee to ease migraine pain. Coffee should be consumed at the onset of the migraine to reduce the side effects. A dose of caffeine during the first signs of a migraine may ease pain and prevent the migraine from worsening.
Combinations
In addition to your coffee remedy, you may supplement your coffee with over-the-counter pain relievers. According to the Cleveland Clinic, caffeine can enhance the effectiveness of analgesics by 40-percent while increasing the body's ability to absorb medication. Supplement caffeine with over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen or Tylenol, all of which do not contain caffeine.
Since you are already receiving caffeine through the coffee, you should not combine coffee with any analgesics that contain caffeine. Remember, too much caffeine can have adverse affects and lead to caffeine addiction.
Medical Treatment
It is crucial to consult with your doctor about migraines, regardless of whether or not coffee is adequate for relieving the pain. While it can be an effective home remedy for some, the medical community generally does not consider coffee a primary course of treatment for migraines. Since coffee can lead to more headaches in some people, it may be more beneficial to seek other forms of treatment. Even if coffee does help relieve migraine symptoms, it still does not address the root of the problem. A physician can further advise you about relieving migraine pain with coffee or alternative treatments, as well as help you prevent additional migraines.
