For people who suffer them, it may seem like nothing can cure the pulsing, savage pain that a migraine causes. Luckily for these people, such is not the case. While they are a bit more difficult to treat than normal headaches are, all hope is not lost.

The most common migraine remedy is taking over-the-counter medications. While this can be an effective method, it is very important to think twice about taking it. Side-effects can be serious and sometimes fatal, such as Reyes Syndrome, which affects children who have taken aspirin. Other than side-effects, painkillers can cause rebound headaches. This is most common with medications that contain aspirin. If painkillers must be taken, be sure to take precautions and read the overdose warning on the label.

Another method to remedy migraines is arguably a fun one; sleep it off! Not only will the dark silence of the room help (as bright lights and loud noises agitate migraines more), but one of the best ways to speed up the time and bypass the life of the migraine is to be asleep during it. It’s a very satisfying feeling to fall asleep with a migraine to wake up without one.

Find out what’s causing the migraine. Assuming it isn’t something that was eaten or similar, removing oneself from the trigger is another way to stop aggravating the migraine and instead remedy it. If the sun is too bright, either put on some shades or go inside. If it’s stress, get away from the situation and try to relax. If sleep or removal of the trigger are not possible, however, it’s also a good idea to have a cup of Coke or coffee; caffeine is a tasty way to help fight against a migraine. In fact, it’s possible withdrawal from caffeine is the cause of it! If caffeine is not available, drink water. Hydration is a very effective way to feel better.

If all else fails, try to massage the temples, neck and face. While migraines may be pressuring, adding your own pressure can sometimes temporarily relieve the pain. Prolonged massaging can also contribute to feeling better altogether. Additionally, loosening the muscles in the neck by moving the head around in a circle can help. Loosening muscles can help the blood flow to the brain, relieving some of the pain and pressure. If a migraine is too painful, though, this may not be possible to do without causing further pain. Thus, this method should not be used on the most painful of migraines.

Adding ice or heat to the center of the migraine can sometimes help, but this does not work for everyone. If lime is available, cutting it in half and rubbing the open face on the forehead can relieve the pulsing pressure as well. These are some of the most effective methods known to help remedy migraines. Should these fail, the only thing that can likely be done is taking some safe medication with water, take a nap, and try to avoid the triggers and hopefully this will prevent the next migraine from showing its face.