During a migraine at onset, which nonpharmacologic instruction helps reduce pain?

• A. Lying in a dark room
• B. Taking a hot bath
• C. Exposing to bright light
• D. Drinking caffeine

Answer: (A)

During migraine onset, reducing sensory stimulation is key, especially light. Photophobia is common in migraines, so staying in a dark, quiet room lowers visual and other sensory input that can intensify pain, helping the nervous system settle and easing the headache.

Bright light tends to worsen migraines, and a hot bath can provoke vasodilation or simply add stress, which may not help the episode. Caffeine is variable—sometimes helpful for some people, but it can also trigger or worsen headaches or lead to rebound effects, making it an unreliable nonpharmacologic strategy for most patients. So, lying in a dark room best supports relief by minimizing triggers and allowing rest.