How can you alleviate headaches without medication. What natural remedies are most effective for headache relief. Which lifestyle changes can prevent recurring headaches. How do massage and acupuncture help with headache pain. What role does hydration play in headache management. How can aromatherapy and breathing exercises reduce headache symptoms. Why is proper sleep crucial for preventing headaches.

Understanding the Causes of Headaches

Headaches have become increasingly prevalent in our fast-paced world. While some stem from medical conditions, many are triggered by everyday factors such as stress, dehydration, overexertion, or lack of sleep. Recognizing the root cause of your headache is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.

Common headache triggers include:

• Stress and tension
• Dehydration
• Lack of sleep
• Poor posture
• Dietary factors
• Environmental stimuli

Understanding these triggers can help you take proactive steps to prevent headaches before they start.

The Power of Massage Therapy for Headache Relief

Can massage therapy effectively alleviate headache pain? Research suggests that it can be a powerful tool in managing chronic headaches and migraines. Massage therapy works by easing muscle tension, improving blood flow, and promoting relaxation.

Different types of massage can target specific headache-related issues:

• Swedish massage for overall relaxation
• Deep tissue massage for chronic muscle tension
• Shiatsu for pressure point relief
• Craniosacral therapy for tension headaches

When seeking massage therapy for headache relief, it’s essential to find a qualified practitioner who understands the complexities of headache management. Regular sessions can help reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches, providing long-term benefits beyond immediate pain relief.

Hot and Cold Therapy: A Dual Approach to Pain Management

How can temperature therapy help with headaches? Alternating between hot and cold treatments can provide significant relief, especially for tension headaches and migraines.

Cold Therapy for Headaches

Cold therapy works by constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation. To apply cold therapy:

1. Wrap ice in a thin towel or use a gel ice pack
2. Apply to the forehead, temples, or neck for no more than 10 minutes at a time
3. Repeat every hour as needed

Heat Therapy for Headaches

Heat therapy relaxes tense muscles and improves blood flow. To use heat therapy:

1. Use a heating pad, warm compress, or homemade rice pack
2. Apply to the back of the neck or shoulders for 15-20 minutes
3. Repeat as necessary throughout the day

Alternating between hot and cold treatments can provide enhanced relief by stimulating blood flow and reducing muscle tension.

Harnessing the Power of Aromatherapy for Headache Relief

How can scents influence our perception of pain? Aromatherapy, the practice of using essential oils to promote healing and well-being, has shown promise in reducing headache symptoms. Certain scents can trigger positive responses in the brain, potentially alleviating pain and promoting relaxation.

Essential oils commonly used for headache relief include:

• Peppermint: Known for its cooling effect and ability to improve blood flow
• Lavender: Renowned for its calming properties and potential to reduce stress
• Eucalyptus: Helps clear nasal passages and may reduce sinus-related headaches
• Rosemary: Improves circulation and may help with tension headaches

To use aromatherapy for headache relief, you can:

1. Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser
2. Apply diluted oil to temples or neck (always use a carrier oil)
3. Inhale the scent directly from the bottle

While aromatherapy can be effective, it’s important to note that some individuals may be sensitive to certain scents. Always perform a patch test before applying essential oils to your skin and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Acupuncture: An Ancient Practice for Modern Pain Relief

Can tiny needles really help alleviate headache pain? Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese healing practice, has gained recognition in Western medicine for its potential to treat various ailments, including headaches. This technique involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to promote energy flow and stimulate the body’s natural pain-relieving mechanisms.

Research supported by the National Institutes of Health has shown that acupuncture can be effective in reducing both the frequency and severity of headaches. The benefits of acupuncture for headache relief include:

• Stimulation of endorphin release, the body’s natural painkillers
• Improved blood flow to affected areas
• Reduction of muscle tension and stress
• Potential long-term prevention of chronic headaches

When considering acupuncture for headache treatment, it’s crucial to seek out a licensed and experienced practitioner. While some people experience immediate relief, others may require multiple sessions to see significant improvements.

Breathing Techniques and Relaxation Exercises for Headache Management

How can something as simple as breathing help with headaches? Proper breathing techniques and relaxation exercises can be powerful tools in managing tension-related headaches. These practices help focus the mind, ease muscle tension, and promote overall relaxation.

Deep Breathing Exercise for Headache Relief

1. Find a quiet, comfortable space
2. Sit or lie down in a relaxed position
3. Inhale slowly through your nose for 5 seconds
4. Hold your breath for 2 seconds
5. Exhale slowly through your mouth for 5 seconds
6. Repeat for 5-10 minutes or until you feel relief

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

This technique involves systematically tensing and relaxing different muscle groups to release tension throughout the body:

1. Start with your toes and work your way up to your head
2. Tense each muscle group for 5 seconds
3. Release the tension and relax for 10 seconds
4. Move to the next muscle group

Regular practice of these techniques can help prevent headaches by reducing overall stress and muscle tension. Incorporating these exercises into your daily routine can lead to long-term improvements in headache management.

Hydration and Dietary Considerations for Headache Prevention

What role does hydration play in headache management? Dehydration is a common trigger for headaches, making proper hydration crucial for both prevention and relief. Ensuring adequate fluid intake throughout the day can significantly reduce the likelihood of dehydration-induced headaches.

Tips for staying hydrated:

• Drink water regularly throughout the day
• Consume hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables
• Limit caffeine and alcohol intake
• Use electrolyte-rich beverages for intense workouts or hot weather

Beyond hydration, certain dietary factors can influence headache occurrence. Some individuals may find relief by:

• Identifying and avoiding personal food triggers
• Maintaining stable blood sugar levels with regular, balanced meals
• Reducing processed foods and artificial additives
• Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into the diet

Keeping a food diary can help identify potential dietary triggers and guide personalized nutrition strategies for headache prevention.

The Importance of Quality Sleep in Headache Prevention

How does sleep affect headache frequency and intensity? Lack of quality sleep is a significant contributor to chronic headaches. Establishing healthy sleep habits can play a crucial role in reducing headache occurrence and improving overall well-being.

Strategies for improving sleep quality:

1. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends
2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine
3. Optimize your sleep environment (cool, dark, and quiet)
4. Limit screen time before bed
5. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and large meals close to bedtime
6. Exercise regularly, but not too close to bedtime

For those with chronic headaches, addressing sleep issues can lead to significant improvements in headache frequency and severity. If sleep problems persist, consulting with a healthcare professional or sleep specialist may be beneficial.

Comprehensive Approach to Headache Management

How can you create an effective headache management plan? Combining multiple strategies often yields the best results for long-term headache relief and prevention. A comprehensive approach might include:

• Regular exercise to reduce stress and improve overall health
• Stress management techniques like meditation or yoga
• Consistent sleep habits
• Proper hydration and nutrition
• Use of natural remedies like aromatherapy or acupuncture
• Targeted therapies such as massage or physical therapy
• Working with healthcare professionals to address underlying issues

By implementing a multifaceted approach, you can address various potential triggers and find the most effective combination of treatments for your specific headache type and lifestyle.

When to Seek Professional Help for Headaches

While many headaches can be managed with home remedies and lifestyle changes, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. When should you consult a healthcare provider about your headaches?

• If headaches are severe or worsen over time
• When headaches interfere significantly with daily activities
• If you experience new or unusual headache symptoms
• When headaches are accompanied by other concerning symptoms
• If over-the-counter treatments are ineffective
• For headaches that occur frequently (more than twice a week)

A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis, rule out underlying conditions, and develop a tailored treatment plan that may include preventive medications or specialized therapies.

Innovative Technologies for Headache Relief

How is technology advancing headache treatment? Recent innovations have introduced new possibilities for managing headaches:

• Neuromodulation devices: These devices use electrical or magnetic stimulation to interrupt pain signals
• Biofeedback apps: Help users identify and control physiological processes that may contribute to headaches
• Virtual reality therapy: Offers distraction and relaxation techniques for pain management
• Smart wearables: Track potential headache triggers like sleep patterns, stress levels, and physical activity

While these technologies show promise, it’s important to discuss their use with a healthcare provider to ensure they’re appropriate for your specific situation.

The Role of Mental Health in Headache Management

How do psychological factors influence headaches? The connection between mental health and headaches is well-established. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to the frequency and severity of headaches. Addressing mental health concerns can be an integral part of effective headache management.

Strategies for improving mental health and reducing headaches:

• Practice mindfulness and meditation
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Seek support through therapy or support groups
• Learn and apply stress management techniques
• Maintain social connections and engage in enjoyable activities

By focusing on overall mental well-being, many individuals find that they experience fewer and less severe headaches. If mental health concerns persist, working with a mental health professional can provide additional strategies and support.

Environmental Factors and Headache Prevention

How does your environment impact headache occurrence? Various environmental factors can trigger or exacerbate headaches. Being aware of these potential triggers and making adjustments to your environment can help reduce headache frequency.

Common environmental headache triggers include:

• Bright or flickering lights
• Loud noises
• Strong odors
• Changes in barometric pressure
• Extreme temperatures

Strategies for managing environmental triggers:

1. Use sunglasses or adjust lighting to reduce glare
2. Employ noise-cancelling headphones in loud environments
3. Use air purifiers to reduce odors and allergens
4. Monitor weather changes and plan accordingly
5. Maintain a comfortable temperature in your living and working spaces

By identifying and mitigating environmental triggers, you can create a more headache-friendly environment and reduce the likelihood of environmentally-induced headaches.

The Impact of Posture on Headache Occurrence

How does your posture affect headache frequency? Poor posture, especially during prolonged periods of sitting or standing, can lead to muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, potentially triggering headaches. Improving posture and ergonomics can significantly reduce the occurrence of tension headaches.

Tips for maintaining good posture:

• Keep your computer screen at eye level
• Use a supportive chair with proper lumbar support
• Take regular breaks to stretch and move
• Practice posture-improving exercises like yoga or Pilates
• Be mindful of your posture throughout the day

Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can help alleviate muscle tension and reduce the likelihood of posture-related headaches. For persistent issues, consulting with a physical therapist or chiropractor may provide additional relief and guidance.

The Future of Headache Treatment and Research

What advances can we expect in headache management? The field of headache research is continuously evolving, with promising developments on the horizon. Future treatments may include:

• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic profiles
• Advanced neuromodulation techniques for chronic headaches
• Novel drug therapies targeting specific headache pathways
• Integration of artificial intelligence in headache diagnosis and treatment planning
• Improved understanding of the gut-brain connection in headache disorders

As research progresses, individuals suffering from headaches can look forward to more targeted and effective treatment options. Staying informed about these advancements and discussing new possibilities with healthcare providers can help ensure access to the most current and effective headache management strategies.

Try These 9 Simple Headache Hacks for Fast Relief

Some home remedies and lifestyle changes may help you get rid of headaches faster. This includes staying hydrated, changing your diet, or trying things like massage and acupuncture.

Relieving your headache

For many people in today’s busy world, headaches have become an increasingly common occurrence. Sometimes they are the result of medical conditions, but often, they’re simply a result of stress, dehydration, a late work night, or just overdoing it at your spin class.

While there are plenty of treatments to reduce headaches, including over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or prescription headache medications, they don’t always eliminate the symptoms.

And tempting though it may be, the solution isn’t to take more than the recommended dosage. In fact, many common (and super simple) lifestyle habits can help reduce your headache pain without you ever reaching for a pill.

Yes, massages may seem luxurious, but they’re also incredibly therapeutic. Sometimes headaches result from tension in the upper body due to muscle strain from poor posture or a rigorous workout routine.

Massage therapy may be able to reduce chronic pain as well as ease muscle tension that causes headaches.

Take the time to research types of massage (Swedish, deep tissue, shiatsu, etc.) and get reliable referrals for a practitioner near you who can effectively address your specific pain points.

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For muscle tension headaches, hot and/or cold compresses can offer relief. For the cold portion, place ice in a plastic bag covered with a thin cloth to avoid harming your skin. Place the ice pack on your forehead and/or cheeks, basically wherever the greatest source of pain is.

Just be sure to limit cold pack applications to no more than 10 minutes at a time.

For the hot portion, you can purchase a heat pack at most drugstores, or make your own using uncooked rice. Take a small pillowcase or piece of fabric and fill it about two-thirds full with uncooked rice. Sew or tie the open end together.

When needed, microwave the rice for one minute. Apply to the back of your neck or forehead for heated relief.

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Aromatherapy is the study of how certain smells can trigger positive and even healing responses in the brain.

Some smells have been reported to soothe and reduce the incidence of headaches. These include peppermint extract, eucalyptus, and lavender oil. They are readily available at many local health food stores or online.

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Acupuncture involves applying fine, sharp needles to key areas on the body as a means of promoting energy flow. It’s thought to stimulate the body’s natural pain-relieving compounds, and according to the National Institutes of Health, has been shown to reduce headache frequency and severity.

Yes, breathing. You know, that thing you do all the time already! It may sound silly, but tension-related headaches can sometimes be relieved with regular breathing exercises that help focus your mind and ease your muscles.

Start by finding a quiet place with a comfortable chair in your home, office, or other location where you will not be distracted. Next, take slow, rhythmic breaths, breathing in for five seconds then out for five seconds. As you relax, your muscle tightness reduces.

You can also try a progressive relaxation technique by focusing on each major muscle group in your body. Start from your toes and work your way up.

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Dehydration can contribute to a headache, but it can be easily avoided. Grabbing a good old-fashioned glass of water can help as much as an electrolyte-containing beverage such as Pedialyte, Gatorade, or Powerade.

But just as there are drinks that can reduce headaches, there are those that can trigger them.

Drinking too much coffee or too many caffeine-filled soft drinks can lead to headaches. So if you normally start your day with a Starbucks quad latte, you may want to trade it for a toned-down mixture of half caffeinated and half decaffeinated.

Alcohol, and particularly red wine, can also lead to dehydration that triggers headaches.

We hear a lot about the health problems caused by lack of sleep, and not getting your nightly minimum can lead to chronic headaches. But knowing you need more sleep and actually getting it are two different things.

There are several ways you can improve the amount and quality of your sleep, including the following.

Commit to a sleep schedule. Go to bed and wake up at regular times. Even if you just go to bed 15 minutes earlier or sleep 15 minutes later, this can be a step in the right direction.

Avoid stimulants in the hours before bed. Stimulants like alcohol, sugar, nicotine, and caffeine can keep you from sleeping and keep you up at night with trips to the bathroom. Give your body time to wind down before your head actually hits the pillow.

Choose a relaxing activity before bed. Turn off the television or computer and treat yourself to a good book or a hot bath. It may sound old fashioned, but a little relaxation goes a long way!

Certain foods, while delicious, have been known to contribute to headaches. Try keeping a “headache diary” of the foods and drinks you consume on a daily basis or specifically when you experience a headache.

If you identify a particular trigger, avoid it for some time and see if the headaches reduce. Possible problem foods include:

Caffeine-containing foods and beverages. Examples include chocolate, coffee, cola, and tea.

Monosodium glutamate-containing foods. MSG is used as a preservative and has traditionally been used in some Asian cooking. It’s also found in foods like instant ramen noodles.

Nitrate-containing foods. Most simple meats, such as hot dogs, lunch meat, sausage, and pepperoni can cause headaches.

Tyramine-containing foods. Tyramine is a compound produced by the breakdown of an amino acid called tyrosine, and it’s found in foods like pizza and aged cheeses.

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The warmth and comfort of a steaming cup of herbal tea makes it an excellent way to wind down at night. Those same soothing qualities can have pain-relieving effects. Because herbs can interact with medical conditions and medications, it’s important to check with a doctor before drinking these teas.

Favorites for relaxation include chamomile, ginger, and dandelion.

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Rachel Nall is a Tennessee-based critical care nurse and freelance writer. She began her writing career with the Associated Press in Brussels, Belgium. Although she enjoys writing about a variety of topics, healthcare is her practice and passion. Nall is a full-time nurse at a 20-bed intensive care unit focusing primarily on cardiac care. She enjoys educating her patients and readers on how to live healthier and happier lives.

18 Remedies to Get Rid of Headaches Naturally

Headache symptoms can be managed at home with a number of natural treatments, including drinking water, taking a nap, applying a cold compress and more.

Headaches are a common condition that many people deal with on a daily basis.

Ranging from uncomfortable to downright unbearable, they can disrupt your day-to-day life.

Several types of headaches exist, with tension headaches being the most common. Cluster headaches are painful and happen in groups or “clusters,” while migraines are a moderate-to-severe type of headache.

Although many medications can be used to treat headache symptoms, a number of effective natural treatments also exist.

Keep reading for 18 effective home remedies to naturally get rid of headaches.

Headaches have a number of causes, some of which are much more serious than others.

Research shows that certain dietary and lifestyle factors could increase the risk of experiencing headaches. Examples include (1, 2, 3, 4):

• lack of sleep
• dehydration
• caffeine withdrawal
• alcohol use
• nutrient deficiency
• undereating

However, serious injuries and underlying health issues can also cause headaches.

For example, headaches can result from potentially life threatening conditions, including tumors and blood clots, as well as from traumatic brain injury (5).

Medication overuse and infections of the central nervous system can cause headaches as well (6).

Additionally, some people are more likely to experience headaches than others.

People with obesity, those with sleep disorders, those who smoke, and those with high caffeine intake are more at risk of experiencing headaches. People with a family health history of headaches are more prone to headache disorders too (6, 7, 8).

1. Drink water

Inadequate hydration may lead you to develop a headache.

In fact, studies have demonstrated that dehydration is a common cause of headaches (4, 9)

What’s more, being dehydrated can impair concentration and cause irritability, making your symptoms seem even worse (10).

Thankfully, research suggests that drinking more water may help reduce headache occurrence, duration, and severity in some people (11).

To help avoid dehydration headaches, focus on drinking enough water throughout the day and eating water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.

2. Take some magnesium

Magnesium is an important mineral necessary for countless functions in the body, including blood sugar regulation and nerve transmission (12).

Interestingly, magnesium has also been shown to be a safe, effective remedy for headaches.

Evidence suggests that magnesium deficiency is more common in people who get frequent migraine headaches than in those who don’t (13).

Studies have shown that treatment with supplemental magnesium, in many different doses and forms, may help reduce both the frequency and the severity of migraine headaches (14).

For example, supplementing with 600 mg of magnesium citrate may be effective for reducing headaches in people with migraine (15).

However, taking magnesium supplements can cause digestive side effects like diarrhea in some people, so it’s best to start with a smaller dose when treating headache symptoms and ask a healthcare professional if you have questions related to dosing.

Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Citrate is a great choice for people who want to try magnesium for headaches. Each capsule contains 150 mg of magnesium citrate.

Pure Encapsulations products are tested by third-party, independent laboratories, including Eurofins, Intertek, and Silliker (16).

Shop for Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Citrate online.

3. Limit alcohol

While having an alcoholic drink may not cause a headache in most people, studies have shown that alcohol can trigger migraines in about one-third of those who experience frequent headaches (17).

Alcohol intake is also a risk factor for tension headaches and for cluster headaches, which are among the most severe types of headaches (17, 18).

There are several ways in which alcohol is thought to trigger headaches, including by provoking inflammation, activating certain neuronal pathways, contributing to dehydration, and widening blood vessels, though the exact mechanism is still unclear (17).

People who experience frequent headaches could try cutting back on their alcohol intake to see if it benefits their symptoms.

4. Get adequate sleep

Sleep deprivation can be detrimental to your health in many ways and may even cause headaches in some people.

In fact, research shows that poor sleep quality and insomnia are associated with increased headache frequency and severity (19).

Sleep apnea, a health condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and then starts again during sleep, is associated with morning headaches, while insomnia is linked to increased headache severity in those with tension headaches (20, 21).

However, getting too much sleep has also been shown to trigger headaches. Therefore, getting the right amount of rest important for those looking for natural headache prevention (22).

For maximum benefits, aim for the “sweet spot” of 7–9 hours of sleep per night (23).

Having trouble sleeping? Read more about natural sleep aids.

5. Avoid foods high in histamine

Histamine is a chemical found naturally in the body that plays a role in the immune, digestive, and nervous systems (24).

It’s also found in certain foods, such as aged cheeses, fermented foods, beer, wine, smoked fish, and cured meats.

Studies suggest that consuming histamine may cause migraines in those who are sensitive to it (25).

Some people cannot excrete histamine properly because they have impaired function of the enzymes responsible for breaking it down (26).

Cutting histamine-rich foods from the diet may help reduce symptoms such as headaches in people who are sensitive to histamine (27).

6. Try essential oils

Essential oils are highly concentrated liquids that contain aromatic compounds from a variety of plants.

They have many therapeutic benefits and are most often used topically, though some can be ingested.

Research suggests that peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus essential oils are especially helpful when you have a headache (28, 29, 30).

If you experience frequent headaches, try diffusing essential oils or rubbing a small amount of an essential oil, like peppermint or lavender oil, mixed with a carrier oil, like jojoba, onto your wrists or temples.

There are a number of high quality essential oils available, with Eden Botanicals being one of the best brands to consider.

Shop for Eden Botanicals essential oils online.

7. Try a B-complex vitamin

B vitamins are a group of water-soluble micronutrients that play many important roles in your body. For example, they contribute to neurotransmitter synthesis and help turn food into energy (31).

Some B vitamins may also have a protective effect against headaches.

Several studies have shown that certain B vitamin supplements, including riboflavin (B2), folate, B12, and pyridoxine (B6) may reduce headache symptoms (32, 33, 34).

B-complex supplements contain all eight of the B vitamins and are a safe, cost-effective way to naturally treat headache symptoms.

B vitamins are considered safe to take on a regular basis, as they are water-soluble, meaning that any excess will be flushed out through the urine (35).

If you’re looking for a high quality B-complex supplement, you may want to try Nordic Naturals Vitamin B Complex. It contains highly absorbable forms of B vitamins, including methylcobalamin and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF).

The supplement is third-party tested, and customers can obtain a certificate of analysis on the Nordic Naturals website.

You can shop for Nordic Naturals Vitamin B Complex online.

8. Soothe pain with a cold compress

Using a cold compress may help reduce your headache symptoms.

Applying cold or frozen compresses to your neck or head area decreases inflammation, slows nerve conduction, and constricts blood vessels, all of which could help reduce headache pain (36).

Studies suggest that cold therapy may benefit those experiencing certain types of headaches, including headaches caused by nitrate medication used to treat heart conditions like chest pain (37).

To make a cold compress, fill a waterproof bag with ice and wrap it in a soft towel. Apply the compress to the back of your neck, your head, or your temples for headache relief.

9. Consider taking coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a substance produced naturally by the body that plays a role in energy production and functions as a powerful antioxidant (38).

Studies have shown that taking CoQ10 supplements may be an effective natural way to treat headaches.

For example, one study in 80 people diagnosed with migraine demonstrated that taking 100 mg of CoQ10 per day reduced migraine frequency, severity, and length (39).

A 2021 review that included 6 studies found that treatment with 30–800 mg of CoQ10 per day was effective for reducing migraine frequency and duration (40).

Thorne Research CoQ10 (previously Q-Best 100), which provides 100 mg of CoQ10 per 1-gelcap serving, is a good option for people who experience migraine.

Thorne Research is a well-trusted supplement company that is certified by several third-party organizations, including the Therapeutic Goods Association, a regulatory agency run by the Australian Government Department of Health (41).

Shop for Thorne CoQ10 online.

10. Try an elimination diet

Studies suggest that food intolerances can trigger headaches in some people (1).

To discover whether a certain food is causing frequent headaches, you may consider trying an elimination diet that removes the foods most related to your headache symptoms.

Aged cheeses, alcohol, chocolate, citrus fruits, and coffee are among the most commonly reported food triggers in people with migraines (1).

A 2016 study in 50 people with migraine found that eliminating migraine-triggering foods from the diet significantly reduced migraine attack frequency, duration, and severity (42).

Read more here about how to follow an elimination diet properly.

11. Drink caffeinated tea or coffee

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Sipping on beverages that contain caffeine, such as tea or coffee, may provide relief when you are experiencing a headache.

Caffeine improves mood, increases alertness, and constricts blood vessels, all of which can have a positive effect on headache symptoms (43).

It also helps increase the effectiveness of common medications used to treat headaches, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen (43).

However, caffeine withdrawal has also been shown to cause headaches if a person regularly consumes large amounts of caffeine and suddenly stops.

Therefore, people who get frequent headaches should be mindful of their caffeine intake (44).

While there are many excellent tea brands on the market, Stash Teas is known for offering a wide variety of flavors, including Green Chai, Orange Spice, and Double Bergamot Early Grey.

Shop for Stash teas online.

12. Try acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into the skin to stimulate specific points on the body (45).

This practice has been linked to a reduction in headache symptoms in many studies.

A 2020 overview of 15 systematic reviews concluded that acupuncture may be an effective therapy for people with migraine (46).

What’s more, a 2022 study that included 156 people with migraine found that treatments with both 5 and 10 sessions of acupuncture were effective for reducing frequency of migraine attacks and migraine severity (47).

If you’re looking for a natural way to treat chronic headaches, acupuncture may be a worthwhile choice.

13. Relax with yoga

Practicing yoga is an excellent way to relieve stress, increase flexibility, decrease pain, and improve your overall quality of life (48).

Taking up yoga may even help reduce the intensity and frequency of your headaches.

One study investigated the effects of yoga therapy on 60 people with chronic migraines. Headache frequency and intensity were reduced more in those receiving both yoga therapy and conventional care than in those receiving conventional care alone (49).

Additionally, a 2020 review that included six studies found that yoga helped improve headache frequency, duration, and intensity in patients with tension-type headaches (50).

14. Avoid strong smells

Strong odors like those from perfumes and cleaning products can cause certain individuals to develop headaches.

A study of 400 people who experienced either migraine or tension headaches found that strong odors, especially perfumes, often triggered headaches (51).

This hypersensitivity to odors is called osmophobia and is common in those with chronic migraines (52).

If you think you may be sensitive to smells, avoiding perfumes, cigarette smoke, and strongly scented foods may help decrease your chance of getting a migraine.

15. Try an herbal remedy

Research suggests that certain herbs, including curcumin, chamomile, and butterbur, may reduce headache symptoms.

For example, a 2020 review of 19 studies found positive preliminary findings for curcumin as a preventive treatment and for chamomile as an acute treatment for migraine (53).

The review also found limited evidence that supplementing with butterbur, a perennial shrub native to Germany that has anti-inflammatory effects, may benefit those with migraine (53).

Even though some herbs are safe to take, it’s important to be cautious when supplementing with herbs, as many can interact with commonly prescribed medications and may be unsafe for people who are pregnant or have certain health conditions (54).

Of the herbal supplements mentioned in the review listed above, curcumin and chamomile are generally considered safe. However, it’s important to check with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy to treat headaches.

Thorne Meriva-SF is an excellent choice for those looking for a high quality curcumin supplement to prevent migraines, and Nature’s Way Chamomile may be helpful if you’re looking for immediate headache relief.

Shop for Thorne Meriva-SF and Swanson Chamomile online.

16. Avoid nitrates and nitrites

Nitrates and nitrites are food preservatives commonly added to items like hot dogs, sausages, and bacon to keep them fresh by preventing bacterial growth.

Foods containing them have been shown to trigger headaches in some people (55).

Nitrites may trigger headaches by causing the expansion of blood vessels (56).

In order to minimize your exposure to nitrites, limit the amount of processed meats in your diet and choose nitrate-free products whenever possible.

17. Take some ginger

Ginger root contains many beneficial compounds, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances (57).

A 2021 review that included three randomized control trials found that treatment with ginger supplements helped reduce pain in people with migraine (58).

What’s more, the ginger treatments helped reduce nausea and vomiting, common symptoms associated with severe headaches (58).

If you’re interested in taking a ginger supplement, Pure Encapsulations Ginger Extract is a high quality supplement that provides 500 mg of ginger root extract per capsule.

You can also make a powerful tea using fresh ginger root. Not only is it cost-effective to make, but drinking the tea is a healthy way to stay hydrated.

Shop for Pure Encapsulations Ginger Extract online.

18. Move more

One of the simplest ways to reduce headache frequency and severity is to engage in physical activity.

A number of studies have shown that exercise could help significantly reduce migraine intensity, frequency, and duration (59, 60, 61)

There are many ways to increase your activity level, but one of the simplest ways is to increase the number of steps you take throughout the day.

Learn 10 ways to move more every day.

If you’re looking for ways to prevent headaches, the following evidence-based tips may help:

• Stay hydrated: Staying hydrated throughout the day is a simple way to reduce the risk of headaches while benefiting your overall health. Hydration needs vary, depending on factors like activity levels, body size, and more, so let your thirst be your guide (62).
• Identify underlying causes: There are many potential underlying causes of headaches, including nutrient deficiencies. If you’re experiencing frequent headaches, see a healthcare professional for a thorough checkup to rule out potential causes (2).
• Eat regularly: Undereating and restricting calories could cause you to develop a headache. Make sure you’re consuming enough calories throughout the day, and don’t go long periods of time without eating (63).
• Get the right amount of sleep: Both sleep deprivation and oversleeping may trigger migraines. It’s important to get the right amount of sleep, not too much or too little. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night (23).
• Try to manage your stress: Stress may trigger some types of headaches and take a toll on overall health. Incorporating healthy stress management practices like exercise, medication, and yoga into your life may help reduce your stress level as much as possible (64).

There are many other ways to help reduce headache frequency, duration, and severity. You can work with a healthcare professional to come up with a plan that works best for you.

The occasional mild headache isn’t usually a cause for concern, but if you’re experiencing frequent headaches or a lasting, severe headache, it’s critical that you seek medical care.

Headaches can be a symptom of a serious underlying health issue, such as a tumor, a blood clot, or another medical condition that requires immediate medical attention (5).

A doctor can help rule out potential underlying causes of your headaches and give you the right care.

They can also run tests to help rule out health conditions and nutrient deficiencies, such as B12 and iron deficiency, which may cause or worsen headaches (65, 66).

It’s especially important to seek immediate medical attention if you’re experiencing a headache after an injury or trauma, such as a fall, or if you experience a sudden, very severe headache, as this may be a symptom of a serious medical condition.

What is the fastest home remedy for a headache?

There are several home remedies that may help treat headaches.

For example, if dehydration is causing a headache, drinking water can help quickly improve the symptoms (11).

Taking pain relievers such as ibuprofen can also help reduce headache pain (67).

Relaxing in a dark room, using a cold compress, smelling some peppermint or lavender essential oils, drinking some caffeine, and avoiding loud noises may also help reduce headache severity.

However, keep in mind that these remedies may not be effective for everyone. Effective treatments depend on the type and cause of the headache you’re experiencing.

Are there any home remedies for headaches that you should avoid?

It’s important to avoid taking herbal supplements to treat a headache unless you’ve checked with a healthcare professional first to ensure the supplements are safe for you. Many herbal supplements can interfere with common medications and aren’t safe for everyone (68).

You should also avoid drinking too much caffeine, as this can make you jittery and interfere with sleep (69).

Is there anything that makes headaches worse?

Bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells may make headache symptoms worse.

If you’re experiencing a significant headache, it’s important to relax in a calm, dark, quiet environment.

Lack of sleep, alcohol, stress, certain foods, hormonal fluctuations, calorie restriction, and taking headache medicine too frequently could also trigger or worsen headaches (70, 71).

Because people experience negative effects from frequent headaches, it’s important to find natural and effective treatment options.

Yoga, nutritional supplements, essential oils, and dietary modifications are all natural, safe, and effective ways to reduce headache symptoms.

While traditional methods such as medications are often necessary, there are many natural and effective ways to prevent and treat headaches if you’re looking for a more holistic approach.

Headache treatment – Directions “Doctor OST”

How can you quickly relieve a headache? What is the best treatment for dizziness? Tormented by insomnia from a constant migraine? Don’t know how to treat a headache anymore? In that case, you are at the right place! Welcome to the Headache and Dizziness Treatment Center “Doctor OST”!

Headache, especially recurring, can be a sign of dangerous diseases, up to a brain tumor! You can not leave this disease unattended!

The activities described on this page are represented in cities:

Almaty

Chelyabinsk

Yekaterinburg

Kazan

Krasnodar

Krasnoyarsk

Nizhny Novgorod

Novosibirsk

Perm

Samara

Tyumen

Ufa

I’m from another city!
How to start treatment?

Many people know how to treat a headache at home: a relaxing bath, warm tea, peace and an aspirin tablet. However, these home remedies for headaches are acceptable if the pain occurs infrequently or, for example, due to normal overwork. If behind the headache there are serious lesions of the central nervous system, spine, blood vessels, such self-treatment can have the opposite effect. Therefore, if the headache began to remind of itself periodically, hurry to the doctor. It is very important to exclude dangerous pathologies in time!

Before treating a headache, you need to find out its root cause, the underlying disease. A thorough examination will allow you to make an accurate diagnosis and choose the best methods of treating headaches.

HOW TO GET RID OF A HEADACHE FOREVER?

If you are not a supporter of half measures and do not want to remember an unpleasant symptom from time to time, you do not need to look for the name of new drugs. In such a matter, professional help is indispensable!

We recommend making an appointment at the Doctor Ost Headache Treatment Center. A doctor of a rare specialty, a cephalgologist, conducts an appointment here. He knows how to treat a headache quickly, effectively, and most importantly, without side effects. Unique technologies come to the rescue, pushing the pills with their short-term effect into the background!

For example, patients who need treatment for tension-type headache are most often admitted. In this case, diseases of the cervical spine are hidden behind an unpleasant symptom: scoliosis, osteochondrosis, protrusion and even hernia. The curvature of the vertebrae causes muscle spasm, the vessels that feed the brain are pinched. Hence, not only headaches and dizziness, but also decreased vision, pressure drops.

Obviously, the best treatment for tension headache is not an injection or a pill, but restoration of spinal health. If you return the vertebrae to their place, the headache will disappear by itself! Doctor OST Medical Center has learned to cope with this brilliantly, thanks to robotic machines for gentle spinal traction!

A completely different treatment will require headaches of a neurological nature. For example, inflammation of the trigeminal nerve due to trauma, infection, colds, leads to unbearable pain in the face. Advanced hardware technologies allow targeted action on the affected nerve, instantly calming it and thereby eliminating the painful ailment.

Headache treatment methods in Doctor OST

There is a Doctor OST!

DRX robot treatment

The DRX device is a non-surgical method of treating the most complex diseases of the spine, including hernias and protrusions. More

There is a Doctor OST!

3D traction with ELITE TRAC

The 3D traction method on Exten Trac Elite is a unique way to treat the spine and joints, which fights not with symptoms, but with the source of pain. More

There is a Doctor OST!

Bioacoustic brain correction

Relieves emotional stress, restores the nervous system, normalizes blood pressure. More

There is a Doctor OST!

Micropolarization

Allows you to restore disturbed functions of the nervous system without the use of drugs. More

How much does it cost?

The cost of services is indicated in our price list. Follow the promotions, do not miss the best price!

Patient testimonials

Quick headache relief

15 years of excruciating headaches passed after 1 session at Doctor OST. Read more

Cured dizziness in Doctor OST

It turns out that such a banal reason as spasmodic muscles can lead to severe dizziness and headaches! But Doctor OST knows how to deal with it. Read more

“Doctor OST” returns the ability to fully move

Valery turned to “Doctor OST” with cervical osteochondrosis and numbness of his hand. Half of the prescribed course (traction on the DRX apparatus in combination with VTES procedures) has already been completed, and the man has become much easier. Read more

After the treatment, my eyesight improved and my head stopped spinning!

School teacher Rozalia Valeeva turned to the Doctor OST medical center with cervical osteochondrosis, a hernia in the cervical region, frequent headaches and reduced vision.
More

Q&A

You asked

Lately, I’ve been experiencing throbbing headaches. What do you advise?

Doctor answers:

First of all, it is necessary to establish the exact cause of the pain. It is necessary to consult a neurologist and, possibly, additional examination: MRI of the cervical spine (CS), ultrasound dopplerography of the vessels of the head and neck. Read more

You asked

What is happening to me? Sometimes, without a significant reason, the heart begins to beat furiously, sweat hails, the head is spinning, the pressure jumps ..

The doctor answers:

The described symptoms indicate the presence of vegetative-vascular dystonia (VVD). However, it is worth undergoing an additional examination to make sure the diagnosis is certain. Read more

You asked

I have been suffering from severe headaches for many years, can a pressure chamber cope with them?

Doctor answers:

Yes, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is indicated for the treatment of headaches of various origins. In addition to eliminating such an unpleasant symptom as a headache, oxygen treatment in a pressure chamber helps to strengthen the immune system and improve the general condition of the body. Read more

The activities described on this page are represented in cities:

Almaty

Chelyabinsk

Yekaterinburg

Kazan

Krasnodar

Krasnoyarsk

Nizhny Novgorod

Novosibirsk

Perm

Samara

Tyu

Ufa

I’m from another city!
How to start treatment?

How to relieve migraine headache at home

Migraine is a pathological neurological disease. This ailment, unlike the usual headache, has its own characteristic signs. Discomfort often appears in a certain area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skull. Hence the other name – hemicrania. Attacks of throbbing pain in migraine begin suddenly, increase gradually, then become simply unbearable. Sometimes painful sensations spread to the neck or shoulders, and also put pressure on the eyes. Often with a disease, appetite disappears, nausea, light and noise interfere.

How to relieve a migraine headache at home

A migraine headache can last from an hour to several days. In the periods between acute and sudden manifestations of symptoms, people suffering from this disease are practically healthy, they have no signs of damage to the nervous system. There is even an assumption that migraine is a hereditary disease. The following reasons can provoke an attack:

• emotional stress;
• excitement;
• overwork;
• malnutrition;
• prolonged strict diets;
• drinking red wine, beer, champagne;
• staying in a stuffy room;
• severe overload of the body;
• chronic sleep deprivation;
• sunstroke.

If we consider violations of various aspects of mental activity between a woman and a man, then the weaker sex has to experience pain much more often. Usually, migraine overcomes beautiful women aged 20-25 to 50 years. Attacks are mainly associated with the onset of the menstrual cycle. Pain can “visit” a woman daily or 2-3 times a month.

Usually the exacerbation of the disease cannot be stopped by medication. This is due to the fact that the stomach stops working, drugs cannot enter the digestive tract, where they must be processed and then absorbed into the blood. In this case, it is worth considering other ways to relieve pain. The methods of traditional medicine come to the rescue.

Prevention is better than cure

A migraine attack may start suddenly, but is sometimes preceded by neurological, visual or gastrointestinal spasms. When you feel that pain will develop in the very near future, try to stop it at the initial stages. Signs of a migraine:

• psychological state, expressed in the inability to really think and evaluate what is happening around;
• appearance before the eyes of lightning, white flies, rings, threads, cobwebs;
• the occurrence of any sounds in the ears;
• reduce reaction rate.

Drink a cup of coffee when the first symptoms appear. This contributes to the expansion of blood vessels, which alleviates the condition.

If your temples are not throbbing yet, take an analgesic to block the pain.

Bring blood vessels back to normal and take a contrast shower. In addition, foot massage will help to alleviate well-being, because there are points responsible for pain impulses in them.

Folk ways to help relieve migraine headaches

If the attack does start, lie down on the couch first. It is desirable that the light be turned off. If it is impossible to stay in a dark room and silence – cover your eyes with a mask or a bandage, and plug your ears with anti-noise inserts.

A hot bath can help relieve a person’s condition. When taking it into the water, dive with your head. True, this method cannot be used for people suffering from diseases of the circulatory system, as well as those with skin pathologies. These procedures are contraindicated for women in an “interesting” position.

You can relax in the water by adding essential oils or sea salt to it. This method is recommended even by doctors. But when using plant extracts, the water should not be higher than 38 °, otherwise the state of health may worsen. After taking a bath, traditional healers recommend eating a teaspoon of honey or jam.

You can also make a mustard bath. But it is intended only for warming up the legs. A handful of mustard powder is diluted in a bucket of hot (40 °) water. The legs are kept in the solution until perspiration appears on the forehead. The remaining mustard is washed off with warm water.

If the legs are warmed up, then the hands, on the contrary, are kept in cold water, to which pieces of ice are even added. Only in this case you will achieve the desired effect. The hands are kept in the cup until the water warms up.

A short sleep relieves the acuteness of an attack. Even 15-20 minutes will greatly alleviate the condition. After a short rest, drink a cup of aromatic bitter black coffee, and put a bandage moistened with cold water on the forehead.

A narrow piece of cloth, which is tightly bandaged on the head after rubbing the temples with a menthol pencil or an asterisk, will help alleviate the symptoms of the disease. Do not remove the bandage until complete relief.

You can also do a self-massage using essential oils. To do this, moisten the index fingers in the extract of mint, rose, cornflower, lavender or lemon. Then the oil is rubbed into the temples with circular pressure movements.

Healing herbs

Before you begin treatment and prevention of migraine, follow a daily routine that includes time for work and rest, use only natural products, avoid alcohol and nicotine.

“Friendship” with coffee will relieve headaches at home, because the alkaloid (caffeine) contained in it promotes vasodilation.

Traditional healers recommend drinking a cup of whey or buttermilk every morning before breakfast.

To prevent a migraine attack, first of all, eliminate mental stress. To calm the nerves, use decoctions and tinctures of medicinal herbs. They are able to reduce pain, as well as prevent the development of an attack. For example, an infusion made from motherwort or valerian roots will help relieve nervous tension.

Drinking blackcurrant, viburnum, carrot, potato or spinach juice will reduce acute pain.

To stop a migraine attack, prepare decoctions of clover, hawthorn, shepherd’s purse, Siberian elder flowers, lemon balm, lovage officinalis, dill, rosemary, peppermint, fireweed, three-leaf watch. In addition, green or linden tea relieves pain.

It should be remembered that herbal treatment is a long process. A single intake of juice, decoction or infusion is unlikely to help. The course of treatment is approximately three months.

Fast relief from pain

Headache is unbearable. Effectively and quickly get rid of it helps the use of onions. To reduce the painful sensations, the vegetable culture is cut into two parts, the halves are applied to the temporal fossae and fixed with a dressing.