Bizarre Viral Migraine Hack Can Really Work, Says Neurologist — Here’s How

More than 1 billion people worldwide suffer from migraines, making it a common yet debilitating condition. Treating them can be tricky due to the unknown cause, leading sufferers to seek unconventional methods for relief.

In a viral video that has garnered significant attention, Tilly Walker, a young woman with migraines, revealed an unlikely hack that works for her – balancing a full bottle of Evian water on her forehead. The method has been hailed as "life-changing" by those who have tried it, including Walker herself.

Dr. Noah Rosen, a neurologist and director of the Northwell Headache Center, has weighed in on the viral hack. According to him, there is scientific basis for this unusual remedy. "There is a long history of using pressure on the forehead to relieve pain," he explained. "Some of the benefits from this may be Diffuse Noxious Inhibitory Control, where a strong stimulus may suppress another one, like rubbing around a paper cut."

Rosen also noted that the bottle's fullness plays a crucial role in the hack's effectiveness. "The pressure is key," he said. Additionally, Rosen pointed out that the water bottle can serve as a mindfulness tool, helping individuals focus on the present moment rather than their pain.

Others have shared their own unconventional recommendations for alleviating severe headaches, including consuming raw mimosa flowers, wearing an eye mask, applying potato slices to the forehead, submerging feet in hot water, and getting a daith or inner ear piercing. Some have also turned to viral "migraine meals," such as large Coca-Cola and McDonald's fries, although these remedies are largely anecdotal.

The science behind some of these remedies is more nuanced than initially meets the eye. For instance, caffeine in soda can operate as a nerve disruptor, affecting nerve activity and blood flow to the brain. However, this effect can be unpredictable and may even trigger migraines in some individuals.

A Safer Alternative: The Water Bottle Hack

While the "migraine meal" remedies are largely anecdotal, the water bottle hack has been praised by experts for its potential benefits. Rosen assured that this method is generally safe for migraine sufferers, provided they take precautions to avoid injury or discomfort.

"I would say if you do it, be careful and don't let it hurt your eyes, nose, or spill on you!" he cautioned. Despite the risks, Walker's hack has proven to be a game-changer for her own migraines. "Figuring this out has been life-changing knowledge," she said in her viral video.

While the water bottle hack may seem like an unlikely solution, it is clear that there is science behind its effectiveness. By harnessing the power of pressure and mindfulness, individuals can find relief from their debilitating migraines. As Walker's story demonstrates, sometimes the most unexpected remedies can lead to life-changing breakthroughs.

So, if you're struggling with migraines and have tried conventional treatments without success, it may be worth exploring unconventional methods like the water bottle hack. Just remember to exercise caution and take necessary precautions to avoid injury or discomfort. With the right mindset and a little creativity, you might just find relief from your debilitating headaches.