9 Natural Ways to Relieve Sinus Pressure

Having sinus pain or a sinus headache doesn’t always mean you have sinusitis. Learn about ways to relieve sinus pain without medication.

By Chris Iliades, MDMedically Reviewed by Justin Laube, MD

Reviewed: August 28, 2017

Medically Reviewed

Sinus Pain Has a Variety of Causes

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If your head is throbbing and you feel pressure around your eyes, cheeks, or forehead, you could have a sinus headache. “Many factors can cause a sinus headache,” says Subinoy Das, MD, chief executive officer and interim medical director for the U.S. Institute for Advanced Sinus Care and Research in Columbus, Ohio. The most important factor is swelling of the lining of the nose and sinuses, causing pressure and pain on in the face and head.

Symptoms of sinus pain and headache include pain associated with congestion from a common cold or allergies; pain around your eyes, forehead, or over your teeth; pain that is worse in the morning; and pain that gets worse when you bend over. Some of the more natural methods of relieving sinus pain that reduce swelling, thin mucus secretions, and improve sinus drainage are often very helpful.

Treat Sinus Pain With Humidity

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“Dry, thick mucus in your nose and sinus passages can form crusts that block sinus drainage and trap viruses and other particles. Increasing humidity and getting more fluid into your body can help your mucus thin out and get moving again,” says Dr. Das. Some natural ways to get your sinuses draining and relieve sinus pressure include drinking plenty of fluids; using a humidifier; avoiding cold, dry air; taking plenty of steamy showers; and drinking a cup of hot tea or soup.

Irrigate to Relieve Sinus Pressure

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“Salt water irrigation is the best way to cleanse the nose and sinuses — this can help prevent or relieve sinus pain. You can use an over-the-counter saline nasal spray, but I recommend using a sinus rinse bottle, neti pot, or bulb syringe irrigation kit that you can get at the drugstore,” advises Das.

Try this commonly-used, easy-to-make nasal irrigation solution with your own sinus irrigation kit: Fill a clean 8-ounce glass with distilled or sterilized lukewarm water. Do not use tap water unless it has been boiled for at least 1 minute (3 minutes at high elevations). Add 1/2 teaspoon of non-iodized salt and a pinch of baking soda. And be sure to clean all equipment and make a fresh batch of solution each time you use your kit.

Alternate Hot and Cold Compresses

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“Reclining with a hot washcloth over your eyes and nose can help warm the nasal passages and loosen secretions,” says Das. You can also alternate warm and cold compresses to relieve sinus pain and sinus pressure. Here’s how to do it: Start by placing a hot towel or washcloth across your sinuses for about three minutes. Then place a cold compress across your sinuses for 30 seconds. Alternate two more times, and repeat the treatment about four times a day.

Spice Up Your Diet to Ease Sinus Pressure

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“Many people find that spicy food like peppers or hot mustard opens up their nasal passages and gives them some relief from sinus pain. There is good evidence that capsaicin, which is the active ingredient found in chile peppers, is effective in relieving some types of pain,” says Das. Capsaicin preparations have been investigated for the treatment of some facial pain syndromes and of rhinitis with promising results. But if you have the taste (and stomach) for them, you can try spicy foods to help with sinus discomfort.

Differentiate Between Sinus Headache and Migraine Headache

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Many people who assume they are having sinus pain due to sinus pressure are actually having a migraine headache. Migraine pain can involve the same nerves as the sinus cavities and is frequently accompanied by nasal congestion, nausea, and aggravation by bright light. “If sinus pain is caused by a migraine, the best natural treatment is lying down in a dark, quiet room,” advises Das.

Hum Your Way to Sinus Pain Relief

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“Some people report that humming for one hour improves sinus pain,” says Das. Researchers in Sweden have found that humming can keep your sinuses clear. How could that be possible? Humming may increase both airflow through your sinuses and the level of nitric oxide in your sinuses. The combination of nitric oxide and airflow may reduce your risk of sinusitis. So if you have a common cold or allergies, want to prevent a sinus infection, and know a happy tune that you don’t mind hearing for an hour, you may want to try a little humming.

Make the Sinus Pain and Mind-Body Connection

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“Techniques that take advantage of the mind-body connection, such as deep breathing practices and relaxation exercises, can be very effective for relieving sinus pain,” notes Das. These practices rely on the mind’s ability to influence pain perception and are especially helpful with chronic or recurrent pain that is often seen with sinus pressure. Some examples include biofeedback, meditation, yoga, and hypnotherapy.

Avoid Sinus Pain Triggers

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“One of the most important things to avoid is over-the-counter nasal decongestant sprays. They may give some fast relief, but after a few days they make sinus pressure and nasal congestion much worse,” warns Das. Some other things you can do to prevent sinus pain include avoiding alcohol, which can aggravate sinus pain and congestion; cleaning your humidifier to avoid fungal allergies; washing your bedding in hot water to decrease allergy exposure; and avoiding swimming, diving, or flying when you have sinusitis, a common cold, or nasal allergy.

Know the Limits of Natural Sinus Pain Relief

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You should not try to self-treat your sinus pain if you have symptoms such as as yellow or green mucus discharge; persistent fever or stiff neck; pain for more than 24 hours; confusion, weakness, numbness, or tingling; and persistent nausea or vomiting. These symptoms could be a sign of a significant infection in your sinuses that might need antibiotics. “Using natural sinus pain relief is fine if you have mild chronic pain or a headache related to a common cold or an allergy, but if you have severe pain that is not responding to these techniques, you need to see your doctor,” advises Das.

How to Relieve Sinus Pressure with 10 Home Remedies

HEAL

Posted January 12, 2021

• Know what can trigger a cold and sinus infection and be prepared. Start taking vitamin C and antihistamine prior to allergy season or use a Neti pot right away at the onset of a cold.

The pressure is building in your forehead, your nose is running, and you just don’t feel good. You suspect that you may have a sinus infection, or sinusitis. Most sinus infections will resolve themselves in seven to 10 days, just by taking care of yourself at home.

What to do for sinus pressure and pain at home

Here are the top 10 at-home
treatments to help ease your sinus pain and inflammation to get rid of your sinus infection faster.

1. Flush. Use a Neti pot, a therapy that uses a salt and water solution, to flush your nasal passages. Nasal irrigation using the Neti pot has been a tried-and-true sinus treatment method for centuries. I have patients who swear by Neti pots and use them daily or weekly to keep their sinuses flowing well. Remember to
   use distilled water only. 
2. Spray. Use an over-the-counter nasal decongestant spray that contains salt water to help keep your nasal passages moist, unblock congestion and treat inflammation. Some sprays, like Afrin^®, can only be used for a maximum of three days. If you exceed three days, you will get “rebound” or worse nasal
   congestion. Other nasal sprays, like fluticasone, are more effective the longer you use them.
3. Hydrate. Drink a lot of fluids—water and/or juice—to help thin your mucus. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, which can cause dehydration. 
4. Rest. Get plenty of rest to help your body fight infection and speed up recovery. While you sleep, prop yourself up with a couple of pillows. Staying elevated can help you breathe more comfortably. 
5. Steam. Breathe in steam from a pot or bowl of warm (not too hot!) water or take a hot shower. You also can place a warm, wet towel on your face, followed by a cool towel. to help ease sinus pain and open your nasal passages.  
6. Spice. Eat spicy foods to help clear your nasal passages. Add hot peppers, hot sauce, horseradish or wasabi to your meal.
7. Add humidity. Use a humidifier or vaporizer in your room while you sleep to add moisture to the air and help reduce congestion. Dry air, tobacco smoke and chlorinated water can irritate the mucus membranes in your nose and create an environment ripe for sinus infection.
8. OTC medication. Take over-the-counter decongestants, antihistamines (if allergies are the culprit) and pain relievers to reduce sinus pain and pressure. Be sure to check with your doctor first if you have any health issues or take other medicines. Never give decongestants or any
   over-the-counter cold medicine to children under age 4. Nasal suction is the best form of “decongesting” for young children. This also reduces post-nasal drip and overall lung irritation.
9. C is key. Up your intake of vitamin C. This may help fight off sinus infection faster, reduce sinus inflammation and relieve the duration of a sinus infection or cold symptoms.
10. Know your triggers. Know what can trigger a cold or sinus infection and be prepared. Start taking an antihistamine prior to allergy season or use a Neti pot right away at the onset of a cold.

Sinus infection vs. COVID-19 symptoms

Some sinus infection and COVID-19 symptoms may overlap. Both illnesses can cause a fever, headaches, nasal congestion, fatigue or a sore throat. Symptoms unique to COVID-19 include body aches, nausea, shortness of breath and vomiting. Learn the difference between the cold, flu and COVID-19 based on your symptoms.   

When to see a doctor for sinus pain

If your sinus symptoms are not getting better with at-home treatments, and if your sinus symptoms last longer than seven to 10 days, you should see a doctor for treatment. Allina Health has many convenient care options for care, from online visits to walk-in care, to help you get better fast.

If you have frequent or reoccurring sinus infections, you may want to see an ear, nose and throat (ENT, otolaryngologist) for your treatment options.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

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Why does my head hurt all the time: causes and treatments

Contents

• 1 What causes a constant headache?
  • 1.1 What causes constant pain in the head?
  • 1.2 Related videos:
  • 1.3 Stress and emotional tension
  • 1.4 Malnutrition and vitamin deficiency
  • 1.5 Poor posture and neck muscle tension
  • 1.6 Hormonal changes in the body 9000 8
  • 1.7 Too much strong coffee and alcohol
  • 1.8 Overwork and lack of sleep
  • 1.9 Hereditary predisposition
  • 1.10 Diseases and infections
  • 1.11 Question-answer:
    • • 1.11.0. 1 Why do I get headaches all the time?
      • 1.11.0.2 What are the treatments for persistent headache?
      • 1.11.0.3 Can a persistent headache be a sign of a serious illness?
      • 1.11.0.4 What causes a headache?
      • 1.11.0.5 How can headaches be relieved without medication?

Chronic headaches can be caused by many things, including tension, migraine, sinusitis, hormonal changes, stress, and other factors. Find out why you might have a headache and what you can do to relieve symptoms.

Headache is one of the most common symptoms experienced by most people. It can be caused by various reasons, from ordinary fatigue and stress to serious illnesses. Persistent headache can significantly impair quality of life and requires attention and treatment.

One of the most common causes of persistent headache is migraine. Migraine is a chronic neurological disease characterized by bouts of intense headache that may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, a feeling of weakness, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, stress, lack of sleep, and poor diet.

Another cause of persistent headaches can be tension in the muscles of the neck and shoulders. Tension in these muscles can be caused by prolonged sitting at a computer, poor posture, injury, or stress. This tension can spread to the head and cause a constant headache.

It is important to pay attention to your habits and lifestyle in order to find out the cause of your constant headache. If the pain does not go away or worsens, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Why is there constant pain in the head?

Constant pain in the head can be caused by various reasons, from ordinary fatigue to serious illness. Here are some of the possible causes:

• Tension and stress: One of the most common causes of persistent headaches is tension and stress. Prolonged periods of tension can cause contraction of the muscles in the head and neck, which in turn leads to pain.
• Migraine: Migraine is a chronic non-inflammatory disorder characterized by recurrent headache. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
• Tension headache: Tension headache is a type of headache that is usually described as a pressing, moderate, or moderately intense pain. It can become chronic and permanent if left untreated.
• Headache due to medication: Long-term use of certain medications can cause persistent headache. It can be a side effect of certain blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and other medications.
• Serious diseases: In some cases, a persistent headache may be a sign of a serious medical condition such as a brain tumor, infection, or inflammation.

If you suffer from a persistent headache, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Self-medication can be dangerous and ineffective, so it’s important to get professional medical help.

Related videos:

Stress and psychoemotional tension

Stress and psycho-emotional tension are one of the main causes of persistent headaches. Our modern life is often accompanied by stressful situations that can negatively affect our physical and mental state.

During times of stress, our bodies produce large amounts of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can cause blood vessels to constrict, increase muscle tension, and change the perception of pain, which can lead to headaches.

In addition to the physical effects, stress can also cause psycho-emotional stress, which affects our emotional state and mental health. Constant tension and anxiety can lead to headaches and make them worse.

To relieve stress and psycho-emotional tension, the following methods are recommended:

1. Regular exercise. Physical activity helps relieve stress and improve mood. It is recommended that you play sports or do exercises that you enjoy, such as yoga or swimming.
2. Proper nutrition. Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals can help improve your mood and relieve stress. It is recommended to consume more fruits, vegetables, green tea and nuts.
3. Regular rest and sleep. Lack of sleep and rest can increase stress and make you feel unwell. It is recommended to allocate time for rest and ensure that you get enough sleep.
4. Relaxation practice. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises and massage can help relieve tension and improve well-being. It is recommended to practice relaxation regularly.
5. Seeking support. Talking to loved ones or a professional psychologist can help you deal with the causes of stress and relieve emotional tension. It is recommended that you seek support when you need it.

It is important to remember that each person is unique and not all methods may work equally well. Experiment and find what works best for you. If the headache does not go away or worsens, it is recommended to consult a doctor for diagnosis and individual treatment.

Improper diet and vitamin deficiency

Improper diet is one of the main causes of persistent headaches. A diet rich in fatty and high-calorie foods, low in nutrients and vitamins, can lead to various health problems, including headaches.

Vitamin deficiency can also be associated with persistent headaches. A lack of B vitamins, vitamin C, and vitamin D can cause various disorders in the body, including problems with the nervous system and circulation, which can lead to headaches.

In case of malnutrition and vitamin deficiency, it is recommended to include the following foods in the diet:

• Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, kiwi, red peppers and broccoli.
• Dairy products rich in vitamin D, such as milk, yogurt and cottage cheese.
• Food containing B vitamins, such as meat, fish, eggs, nuts and green vegetables.

It is also recommended to pay attention to the diet and drinking enough water. Eating regularly, taking into account all the necessary nutrients and vitamins, will help improve the general condition of the body and reduce the risk of persistent headaches.

Incorrect posture and tension in the neck muscles

Incorrect posture and tension in the neck muscles can be one of the causes of persistent headaches. Poor posture, such as slouching or scoliosis, can lead to improper distribution of stress on the spine and neck muscles, which can cause tension and pain.

In addition, prolonged periods of incorrect posture, such as when working at a computer or using mobile devices, can lead to neck tension and spasms. It can also cause headaches.

To prevent and treat headaches associated with poor posture and neck tension, the following is recommended:

• Maintain good posture: Try to sit and stand straight with your shoulders down and your back straight. Use a pillow that supports the natural curvature of your neck when you sleep.
• Regular neck and back exercises: Stretching and strengthening the muscles in your neck and back can help relieve tension and improve your posture. These include tilting the head forward, backward and to the sides, rotational movements of the neck and pulling the head to the shoulder.
• Avoid prolonged sitting in one position: Try to take regular breaks, especially when working at the computer or reading. Get up, warm up and do small exercises for the neck and back.
• Position your computer and mobile devices correctly: Make sure the screen is at eye level so you don’t tilt or turn your head down. Use a laptop stand or pillow to support your arm when using your mobile device.

If the headache persists or gets worse, see a doctor. He will be able to diagnose and prescribe appropriate treatment, including physical therapy, massage, or recommendations for behavior change.

Hormonal changes in the body

Hormonal changes in the body can be one of the causes of persistent headaches. Hormones are substances that regulate many processes in the body, including the function of the nervous system and the circulatory system.

One example of hormonal changes that can cause headaches is the menstrual cycle in women. During menstruation, estrogen and progesterone levels can change, which can lead to vasodilation of the brain and cause migraines or headaches.

Hormonal changes may also be associated with other conditions such as pregnancy, postpartum, premenopausal and postmenopausal women. During these periods, hormone levels can fluctuate, which can affect the vascular system and cause headaches.

In men, hormonal changes may also be associated with headaches. For example, low testosterone can cause headaches and fatigue.

Other causes of hormonal changes in the body may include pathological conditions, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which are associated with dysfunction of the thyroid gland. These changes in hormone levels can also cause headaches.

Headaches associated with hormonal changes can be treated in a variety of ways, including medication, regular physical activity, a healthy lifestyle, and controlling hormone levels with hormone therapy.

It is important to see a doctor for specific advice and treatment, as the causes of headaches can vary and require an individual approach.

Excess strong coffee and alcohol

Excess strong coffee and alcohol can be one of the causes of persistent headaches. The caffeine found in coffee is a powerful stimulant of the central nervous system and can cause vasodilation of the brain. This can lead to increased pressure inside the skull and cause headaches.

Alcohol can also cause headaches. It can cause vasodilation of the head and an increase in serotonin levels in the brain, which can cause headaches. In addition, alcohol can cause dehydration, which can also be associated with headaches.

To prevent headaches associated with excess strong coffee and alcohol, it is recommended to reduce their consumption. Limit the amount of coffee and alcohol consumed throughout the day. If you already have a headache, try drinking more water to help keep your body hydrated.

It is also recommended that you see a doctor to assess your condition and prescribe appropriate treatment. In some cases, the headache may be due to other causes, and special treatment is required.

Overwork and lack of sleep

One of the main causes of persistent headaches is overwork and lack of sleep. The modern rhythm of life, stress, work, study and other responsibilities can lead to constant fatigue and lack of sleep.

Lack of sleep has a negative impact on the general condition of the body. During sleep, the body is restored, including the brain. Lack of sleep leads to disruption of its functioning, which can cause headaches.

Overwork can also cause persistent headaches. With a long period of intense activity, the body does not have time to recover, which leads to a deterioration in overall well-being and pain in the head.

It is important to pay attention to the quality and duration of sleep. It is recommended to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day, and if possible at the same time. Regular exercise, relaxation treatments such as a hot bath or massage can also help manage fatigue and improve sleep quality.

If sleep problems and overwork become chronic and are accompanied by constant headaches, a doctor should be consulted. He will be able to diagnose, identify possible causes and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Hereditary predisposition

Hereditary predisposition to headaches is one of the reasons for their constant occurrence. If one or both parents had frequent headaches, then the likelihood of their occurrence in the child also increases.

Genetic factors can influence various aspects of headache, including its frequency, intensity and duration. Heredity may be associated with abnormalities in the functioning of brain structures, changes in the vascular system, or increased sensitivity to pain.

However, hereditary predisposition does not mean that headache cannot be prevented or treated. There are various methods and strategies that can help manage headaches, even those with a hereditary predisposition.

It is important to see a neurologist or headache specialist for professional help. He will help determine the exact cause of the headache and develop an individual treatment plan.

In addition, regular preventive measures, such as a healthy lifestyle, stress management, regular exercise and proper nutrition, can reduce the risk of headaches, even with a hereditary predisposition.

Hereditary predisposition is not the only cause of persistent headaches, so it is important to conduct a comprehensive examination to rule out other possible causes and develop the most effective treatment.

Diseases and infections

Pain in the head can be caused by various diseases and infections.

Migraine is a chronic neurological disease characterized by recurrent attacks of severe headache. A migraine may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Cluster headache is a rare disease characterized by attacks of intense unilateral headache. Cluster headache is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as watery eyes, nasal congestion, and eye redness.

Influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by a virus. Headache is one of the flu symptoms, along with fever, weakness, and a runny nose.

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that can cause headaches in the forehead, nose and cheekbones. Symptoms of sinusitis can include nasal congestion, nasal discharge, and fever.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges caused by an infection. Headache is one of the main symptoms of meningitis, along with neck stiffness, fever, and cramps.

Head injury – any head injury can cause headache. Injury can be caused by a blow, a fall, or other physical impact.

If you have a persistent headache, see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Only a qualified specialist will be able to determine the cause of your headache and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Q&A:

Why do I get headaches all the time?

Persistent headache can be caused by various causes such as tension, migraine, sinusitis and others. If you constantly experience a headache, it is recommended to consult a doctor for diagnosis and identification of the causes of your condition.

What are the treatments for persistent headache?

Treatment for persistent headache depends on its cause. In some cases, medications, such as painkillers or anti-migraine medications, may be required. However, it is important to remember that self-medication can be dangerous, so it is recommended to consult a doctor for professional advice and proper treatment.

Can a persistent headache be a sign of a serious illness?

Yes, a persistent headache can be a sign of a serious medical condition such as a cerebral hemorrhage, brain tumor or infection. If you have a persistent headache, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or blurred vision, it is recommended that you see a doctor right away to diagnose and rule out serious causes.

What causes a headache?

Headache can be caused by various causes such as tension, migraine, sinusitis, influenza, dental problems, high blood pressure and others. Also, headaches can be a side effect of certain medications. If you have a constant headache, it is recommended to see a doctor to find out the reasons for your condition.

How can headaches be relieved without medication?

If you have a headache, you can try the following methods to relieve your symptoms without medication: rest in a dark and quiet room, apply cold to the head area, massage your neck and shoulders, drink a cup of herbal tea such as peppermint or chamomile. However, it is important to remember that these methods may not be suitable for everyone and will not necessarily work for every headache.

What should I do if I have a headache? Causes and types of pain in the back of the head and other parts of the head

Why can a head hurt and where does this pain come from? Interestingly, your brain tissue does not actually have pain receptors called nociceptors. Thus, the sensation of pain occurs when nociceptors in the supporting structures of the brain (blood vessels, muscles, cranial and spinal nerves, and meninges) are activated. Most headaches have multiple causes, with genetic and environmental factors contributing to differences in how she experiences the headache. Let’s look at what types of headaches you should know and how to quickly relieve them.

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What are the most common types of headaches?

• Tension-type headache (THE): This is the most common type of headache and usually causes mild to moderate pain. It covers both sides of the head and is described as dull, pressing, or squeezing.

• Migraine: This is a neurological disorder that can cause a severe, throbbing headache, most often in the back of the head, accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, smell, or touch. Migraines affect approximately 12% of people.

• Autonomic trigeminal cephalalgia (TRTN): These pains are less common than migraine and tension headache. These include cluster headache, which causes intense pain around the eye or temple and can last up to several hours.

• Other primary headaches: Although these cases are rare, they include a primary stabbing headache characterized by sudden stabbing pain and a new persistent headache that comes on suddenly, daily, and lasts more than three months.

• There are also secondary headaches that are symptoms of other problems such as altitude sickness, infections, or caffeine withdrawal. For secondary pain in the head, treatment of the underlying disease should help relieve the pain.

What should you try first to quickly relieve your headache?

An ordinary headache usually does not deprive you of the opportunity to do business for several hours in a row. This is a mild to moderate headache that does not restrict you from daily life. You probably don’t pay much attention to it. It doesn’t even occur to you to seek help from a doctor if your head hurts is not expressed.

These types of headaches do not require special treatment and usually go away on their own without intervention. Because of this, if you’re suffering from a mild to moderate headache, simple home remedies and natural approaches can usually help. Try one or more of the following methods:

• Applying cold or heat: If you spend most of the day sitting in a crooked position at your computer, you probably notice how the tension in your shoulders increases with stress levels. This muscle tension can cause tension headaches. Therefore, one way to relieve tension and relieve headaches may be to apply a hot or cold compress to the head, neck, or shoulders.

• Relaxation and Meditation: Deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and meditation practice can help relieve stress and tension, which can reduce headaches.

• Massage: Gently massaging the neck, shoulders, and temple area can help relieve tension and improve blood circulation, which can relieve headaches.

• Regular sleep and rest: lack of sleep and overwork can trigger a headache. Therefore, it is important to provide yourself with sufficient rest and regular sleep.

• Avoid Triggers: Many people have certain factors that can cause headaches, such as stress, certain foods, or too bright lights. Try to identify your triggers and avoid them to prevent headaches.

While these methods may be helpful in relieving common headaches, if you often experience true migraines or other severe types of headaches, it’s a good idea to see your doctor for a diagnosis and to determine the most effective treatment.

Drink enough water

Dehydration can be a serious cause of headaches. Increasing your water intake may be all you need to help relieve your symptoms. It is best to drink water regularly throughout the day to prevent dehydration and subsequent nasty headaches.

Have a snack

Snacking between meals, such as fresh fruit, a handful of nuts, or vegetables with hummus, can help prevent or relieve headaches. This is because when your blood sugar drops, meaning there is not enough glucose for energy, it can cause headaches.

Take a break

Remember that muscle tension we talked about? Stress is a major cause of both muscle tension and headaches, and sometimes the best medicine is to take a step back. Try scheduling small breaks throughout the day to take a walk, look out the window, pet your dog, or have a cup of coffee (unless it gives you a headache).

Stretch

Do not take a break only when the headache has already begun to creep up. It is important to be physically active during the day, especially if you work at your desk. Stretch your limbs, neck and back.

What to do next if the headache does not go away?

Let’s say you’ve tried all of the above tips, but your headache still persists. Then you may need help in the form of medication.

Purchase non-prescription pain reliever

When home treatments do not relieve mild to moderate headaches, over-the-counter pain relievers often help. For many common headaches, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are preferred. NSAIDs help manage common headaches by acting on chemicals associated with inflammation and pain. They include acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. However, experts warn against taking too many over-the-counter drugs, as this can lead to a condition called drug overuse headache. Paradoxically, frequent use of these drugs can cause changes in your brain that lead to more headaches. If someone really needs to take over-the-counter pain relievers more than twice a week, it’s a good idea to start taking preventive medications to help reduce the frequency of headaches.

Talk to your doctor about prescription drugs

Sometimes home treatment is not enough, in which case prescription medications are recommended. For tension headaches, your medications will be slightly different than for migraine attacks. However, most people with tension headaches don’t even see a doctor because of their mild symptoms. Most people who go to the doctor for headaches are actually suffering from migraine attacks. This is because migraine attacks are usually more painful and interfere with normal life enough to require medical attention.

Try gadgets for migraine attacks

Although it may sound a little fantastic, devices for treating migraine attacks are based on scientific research. Non-invasive drug-free devices are a new breakthrough in migraine prevention and treatment. Some are for prevention and treatment, while others are only effective during a migraine attack.

Most Popular Devices:

The work of brain cells and neurons is based on an electrochemical connection between them. When the electrochemical function is disturbed, as in a migraine, we can influence the function using chemical or electrical methods.

These devices change the electrical activity of brain cells or neurons to relieve migraine symptoms. Their use is very simple: you simply put the device on your head, arm or neck (depending on the type of device) and it creates an electrical impulse. Most of these devices are available on prescription only, so if you’re wondering how they work and if they’re right for you, ask your doctor.

How to prevent headaches and migraines

• Sleep: Try to sleep and wake up at the same time each day, avoid screens before bed, and get out of bed when you can’t sleep.

• Nutrition: It is recommended to eat a varied and healthy diet. Avoid skipping meals, which can cause headaches in some people.

• Physical activity: Regular exercise, including 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity three to five times a week, is a great way to prevent headaches.