Tension headache – Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis

If you have chronic or recurrent headaches, your doctor may conduct physical and neurological exams, then try to pinpoint the type and cause of your headaches using these approaches:

Your pain description

Your doctor can learn a lot about your headaches from a description of your pain. Be sure to include these details:

• Pain characteristics. Does your pain pulsate? Or is it constant and dull? Sharp or stabbing?
• Pain intensity. A good indicator of the severity of your headache is how much you’re able to function while you have it. Are you able to work? Do your headaches wake you or prevent you from sleeping?
• Pain location. Do you feel pain all over your head, on only one side of your head, or just on your forehead or behind your eyes?

Imaging tests

If you have unusual or complicated headaches, your doctor may order tests to rule out serious causes of head pain, such as a tumor. Two common tests used to image your brain include:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI scan combines a magnetic field, radio waves and computer technology to produce clear images.
• Computerized tomography (CT). A CT scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a series of computer-directed X-rays to provide a comprehensive view of your brain.

Treatment

Some people with tension headaches don’t seek medical attention and try to treat the pain on their own. Unfortunately, repeated use of over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can actually cause another type of headache, overuse headaches.

Acute medications

A variety of medications, both OTC and prescription, are available to reduce the pain of a headache, including:

• Pain relievers. Simple OTC pain relievers are usually the first line of treatment for reducing headache pain. These include the drugs aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen (Aleve).

  Prescription medications include naproxen (Naprosyn), indomethacin (Indocin) and ketorolac (Ketorolac Tromethamine).

• Combination medications. Aspirin or acetaminophen or both are often combined with caffeine or a sedative drug in a single medication. Combination drugs may be more effective than are single-ingredient pain relievers. Many combination drugs are available OTC.
• Triptans and narcotics. For people who experience both migraines and episodic tension headaches, a triptan can effectively relieve the pain of both headaches. Opiates, or narcotics, are rarely used because of their side effects and potential for dependency.

Preventive medications

Your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks, especially if you have frequent or chronic headaches that aren’t relieved by pain medication and other therapies.

Preventive medications may include:

• Tricyclic antidepressants. Tricyclic antidepressants, including amitriptyline and protriptyline, are the most commonly used medications to prevent tension headaches. Side effects of these medications may include constipation, drowsiness and dry mouth.
• Other antidepressants. There also is some evidence to support the use of the antidepressants venlafaxine (Effexor XR) and mirtazapine (Remeron).
• Anticonvulsants and muscle relaxants. Other medications that may prevent tension headaches include anticonvulsants, such as topiramate (Topamax). More study is needed.

Preventive medications may require several weeks or more to build up in your system before they take effect. So don’t get frustrated if you haven’t seen improvements shortly after you begin taking the drug.

Your doctor will monitor your treatment to see how the preventive medication is working. In the meantime, overuse of pain relievers for your headaches may interfere with the effects of the preventive drugs.

Lifestyle and home remedies

Rest, ice packs or a long, hot shower may be all you need to relieve a tension headache. A variety of strategies can help reduce the severity and frequency of chronic tension headaches without using medicine. Try some of the following:

• Manage your stress level. One way to help reduce stress is by planning ahead and organizing your day. Another way is to allow more time to relax. And if you’re caught in a stressful situation, consider stepping back.
• Go hot or cold. Applying heat or ice — whichever you prefer — to sore muscles may ease a tension headache. For heat, use a heating pad set on low, a hot-water bottle, a warm compress or a hot towel. A hot bath or shower also may help. For cold, wrap ice, an ice pack or frozen vegetables in a cloth to protect your skin.
• Perfect your posture. Good posture can help keep your muscles from tensing. When standing, hold your shoulders back and your head level. Pull in your abdomen and buttocks. When sitting, make sure your thighs are parallel to the ground and your head isn’t slumped forward.

Alternative medicine

The following nontraditional therapies may help if you have tension headache pain:

• Acupuncture. Acupuncture may provide temporary relief from chronic headache pain. Acupuncture practitioners treat you using extremely thin, disposable needles that generally cause little pain or discomfort. The American Academy of Medical Acupuncture website provides referrals to medical doctors who use acupuncture in their practices.
• Massage. Massage can help reduce stress and relieve tension. It’s especially effective for relieving tight, tender muscles in the back of your head, neck and shoulders. For some people, it may also provide relief from headache pain.
• Deep breathing, biofeedback and behavior therapies. A variety of relaxation therapies are useful in coping with tension headaches, including deep breathing and biofeedback.

Coping and support

Living with chronic pain can be difficult. Chronic pain can make you anxious or depressed and affect your relationships, your productivity and the quality of your life.

Here are some suggestions:

• Talk to a counselor or therapist. Talk therapy may help you cope with the effects of chronic pain.
• Join a support group. Support groups can be good sources of information. Group members often know about the latest treatments. Your doctor may be able to recommend a group in your area.

How to get rid of a headache fast

Natural remedies, like acupressure and herbs, have been used for hundreds of years to ease headaches.

If you suffer with frequent headaches, you’re probably more likely to just pop a Paracetamol to get rid of them fast.

There are some alternative, natural headache cures, though.  And, many are proven to help cure headaches quickly when you don’t want to reach for the medicine cabinet.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) reported that at least once in the last year, three in four of us have suffered with a headache. Of those, one in three have had a migraine. It’s a problem that affects people all around the world.

But as common as headaches are and as easy as it is to get rid of a headache fast, it’s not always clear why exactly we have them. As well as common reasons like having a cold, not drinking enough water and stress, there are also more concerning reasons for headaches like sleeping problems, drinking too much alcohol and overuse of painkillers.

Worried that you’re having more headaches than normal? Be sure to visit the doctor to check everything’s okay. In the meantime, opt for some natural headache cures and remedies…

How to get rid of a headache fast using natural remedies…

Menthol products

Credit: Johnson’s

Menthol is a synthetic scent made from mint and it’s now thought that it could help cure your headaches.

One women’s Facebook post has gone viral after she uploaded a picture of a bottle of Johnson’s Baby Soothing Vapor Bath claiming the £3.41 product has been “life changing”. Alongside the picture Jill Hamilton wrote, ‘try this if you get headaches constantly like I do… it’s life changing!’

Speaking to MailOnline, Professor Goadsby of the National Institute for Health Research said there could potentially be some truth in Jill’s claims, as menthol activates a receptor in our skin which can make us feel cooler and sooth pain. He said, “Whenever you put menthol on you head and you feel cool, that’s because you are activating this receptor. ”

Despite reports that it does ease headache symptoms, the reason behind why menthol seems beneficial hasn’t yet been cracked. Professor Goadsby continued, ‘There is a link – and evidence for the link – but the cause isn’t known.’

Acupressure

Massage your hand (or even better, get someone else to do it for you) in the fleshy bit in between your thumb and forefinger. It’s believed that you have an acupressure point here which is related to the head and relieving tension here will help your headache.

Looking for something more effective? It might be worth trying out this trick which was tested by Elizabeth Hayes, from Indiana, USA. Hayes took to Facebook to share how using a plastic peg and clipping it between your thumb and index finger could help elevate pain caused by a migraine.

The peg is known as Aculief and can be purchased on Amazon for anyone curious to test its healing powers for themselves.

Elizabeth Hayes

This chip clip saved my life tonight. I had a migraine start almost twelve hours ago and about an hour ago it was at an unbearable limit. I had exhausted all of my drugs and tricks I usually use to…

Cool mist spray

Dr Chris Etheridge, medical herbalist and advisor to www.uk.puressentiel.com says that there is limited evidence to prove cool mist sprays help relieve headaches. ‘From a trial in 28 patients it was shown that a cold intranasal spray may help a headache through a vasoconstrictor effect in the nose that reduce inflammatory mediators or through an impact on TRP receptors (as for menthol). However, larger clinical trials are needed.’

Want to pick up some cool mist spray?

Boots sell a range of cooling mist sprays. In fact, these are also said to be good for dealing with menopausal symptoms.

Himalayan salt

Credit: Getty

Well, it doesn’t even have to be specifically Himalayan actually, but there have been reports that these little grains of salt can cure a headache as if by magic.

Dr  Etheridge says: ‘Anecdotally, some people find this works but the science is lacking. It involves the use of the juice of a lemon, hot water and two teaspoons of Himalayan (or similar quality) salt. However, the NHS recommends no more than 6g of salt daily in the diet and this treatment provides almost double that amount.’

So, whilst it might have benefits, it could also cause some harm if done too regularly.

Heat

A great way to get rid of a headache fast, as headaches can be brought by tense muscles in your neck and head which are easily relieved with heat. Holding a hot water bottle (not containing boiling water, just hot water) or a hot compress against your forehead the back of your neck, can relax the muscles and ease the pain.

Dr Etheridge adds: ‘Headaches can be brought on by tense muscles in the head and neck. A warm compress held against the forehead or back of the neck can ease tense muscles. Heat is not likely to be as effective for headache as cold. ’

Foot bath

A hot foot bath will draw blood to your feet and relieve the pressure in your head. It will also help you relax. Relaxing always seems to be a way to help us feel better.

In fact, Dr Etheridge explains that any method of relaxation may help headache relief.

So as well as a foot bath, you could dry breathing techniques. Find a quiet spot. Then, sit comfortably, inhale for five slowly, then exhale for five, slowly. Repeat this five to 10 times.

You could even try this gentle headache relief below…

Head massage

It’s not entirely surprising that if you’re looking for how to get rid of a headache fast, this option is one of the best. Even if there’s no one around to give you one, doing it yourself will still help.  If you’re helping someone else out, watch this video to learn more about how to give a head massage.

Pharmacist Sultan Dajani from www.dragonflycbd.com says that a head massage can be an effective option to getting rid of a headache.

‘Concentrate on the temples and massage in a circular motion. You could try using Puressentiel Headache Roll-on for a combination of essential oils and head massage.’

Sex

Have a good old roll in the hay! It’s a great stress reliever and could take your mind off your headache for a while.

However, Sultan explains that there is some evidence that sex can relieve migraines and cluster headaches.

‘A survey of 1000 people found that of the 34% who had sex during a migraine attack, 60% reported improvement and 30% worsening. Of the 31% who had sex during cluster headache, 37% experienced improvement, 50% worsening.’

But it’s an experiment we are willing to try!

Keen for a good night’s sleep after? These foods will help you drift off…

Elevate your legs

Before you grab that packet of paracetamol, give this yoga position a go. Also known as the Inverted Lake, elevating your legs whilst lying on the floor, it encourages blood to flow around your body – in particular to the parts that really need it. Simply lie on your back on the floor with your bottom against a wall and stretch your legs upwards so you’re laying at a right angle. Breath deeply.

As well as helping to cure headaches and migraines, it’s claimed the position can also help to relieve menstrual cramps, reduce swollen ankles and ease back pain amongst many other things. Free and easy, we recommend giving it a go!

Daith piercing

Who knew getting your ears pierced could actually have health benefits? Sultan explains: ‘A daith piercing is a piercing of the fold of cartilage that’s just above the entrance to your ear canal. The link between daith piercing and headache/migraine relief is acupuncture/acupressure and the idea is that a daith piercing activates a pressure point. Case studies have indicated a benefit but the technique needs properly testing. ’

So, although the unusual method is not yet scientifically proven, the Migraine Relief Center recognises there might be link between daith piercing and migraine relief as the piercing ‘mimics acupuncture by hitting a pressure point, which relieves the pressure in the patient’s head.’

Foods to help get rid of a headache

Ginger

Credit: Getty

Dr Tim Bond, natural health expert and chemist from www.teaadvisorypanel.com says that ginger is best known for benefits in indigestion and nausea. However, it also has anti-inflammatory effects due to the presence of a naturally occurring oil.

‘In a clinical trial, ginger extract combined with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory prescription drug reduced pain in migraine,’ he explains.

Want to give it a go? Crush up about an inch of fresh ginger. Next, pour boiling water over it and drink it as a tea once it’s cooled a bit.

Feverfew

Feverfew looks much like a daisy. But it can also be bought as a supplement and is one of the well-known ways of how to get rid of a headache fast. 250mg every morning should keep headaches at bay.

Dr Sultan adds that feverfew is a herb which has a long traditional use for headaches.

‘A clinical review suggested feverfew may be useful not only for classical migraine and cluster headaches, but also for premenstrual, menstrual, and other headaches. Feverfew contains parthenolide which may help migraine by reducing inflammation and antagonising serotonin (a substance that dilates blood vessels which may be linked with migraine) It can be bought as a supplement.’

Rosemary

It doesn’t just make your Sunday roast taste great! An infusion of rosemary (just a spoonful in a cup of hot water) is said to stop a headache getting worse.

Dr Bond says: ‘Rosemary has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects and has been used traditionally for thousands of years as a pain reliever. It contains an essential oil and bioactives such as carnosic acid, carnosol, ursolic acid and betulinic acid, as well as rosmarinic acid, rosmanol and oleanolic acid which have pain killing activity. ’

Is it a migraine? Check out these migraine symptoms…

Mouthguard

OK, so it’s not ideal. But, tension in your jaw and grinding your teeth are often the reason why we get headaches.

Dr Bond says: ‘A mouthguard will stop you grinding your teeth. It is a small plastic splint which fits over your upper or lower teeth. If you think you grind your teeth and this causes your headaches it might be worth chatting to your dentist who will need to measure and fit the splint.’

Coffee

Credit: Getty

It may not seem like a good idea, but having a strong coffee reduces swelling in the blood vessels and can ease headache pain. This won’t work for people who drink lots of caffeine, though. Too much caffeine can infact make headaches worse.

Dr Bond also adds that Rooibos tea is a good replacement for those who want to avoid caffeine.

‘Some people choose to avoid caffeine if they suffer from headaches. Rooibos tea is naturally caffeine free and a pleasant refreshing alternative. ’

Plus it’s naturally sweet and tastes delicious!

Cinnamon

Some people believe that if you get a headache from being cold, a fine cinnamon paste spread on your forehead will make you feel better.

Dr Bond says: ‘Cinnamon has been used traditionally to treat headache. Complementary practitioners recommend that you can make a paste with cinnamon powder and water and apply it to the temples (when the pain has started) or try cinnamon infusion (when the pain begins). Cinnamon contains cinnamic aldehydes which have an anti-inflammatory effect.’

You can buy cinnamon tea, too, which makes a tasty alternative to regular tea. Or try sprinkling cinnamon over oats or cereal.

Boost your mood with these tasty foods!

Marjoram

An infusion of marjoram leaves, drunk as a tea is one of the commonly used natural headache cures. The leaves have a slightly minty, lemony taste. If you don’t like it, you can also get your other half to give you a massage with marjoram oil.

However, Sultan says: ‘Marjoram has been used traditionally for pain and headaches but evidence is insufficient to recommend its use for headache.’

There are a number of surprise things that might be causing your headache. Read more here.

Frozen Peas

Credit: Getty

This might sound like an odd cure for headaches, but Dr Bond reveals that lots of people swear by placing a bag of frozen peas at the base of the skull whilst submerging their hands and feel in a hot or warm water.

He adds: ‘It is based on hydrotherapy treatment which aims to draw blood away from the head to the limbs.’

Drawing blood away from the head and into the limbs consequently relieves congestion, throbbing and pain. The efficiency of the treatment increases the higher the contrast is between hot and cold, so keep the water as hot as you can stand, and the frozen peas or other cold alternative as cold as possible.

Foods that can trigger headaches and migraines

Whilst there are foods and natural herbs that can help cure a headache, there are some that make it worse.

Dr Bond says: ‘Most of the food triggers associated with headaches and migraines come from people self-reporting not clinical trials.

‘Trigger foods include bananas, beans (brad and fava), chocolate, citrus fruits, cultured dairy (yogurt and kefir), nuts and nut butters, strawberries, cheese high in tyramine (Blue cheese, Brie, Cheddar, Feta, Mozzarella, Parmesan, Swiss), MSG (in soya sauce and used as a meat tenderiser), aspartame ( a sweetener), nitrates and nitrites (found in cured and processed meats), alcohol (wine, beer and spirits).’

So if you sense a headache, put down the pinot and pick up a herbal tea!

What pressure points get rid of a headache? 

You might be quick to dismiss pressure points. But Sultan says there are some main ones to note when attempting to get rid of a headache.

To work a pressure points, press each spot using either a knuckle or your thumb/index finger. Press gently, then slowly increase pressure. It shouldn’t hurt.

Try the below…

1. Between the web of the thumb and the index finger.
2. The indentations on either side of the spot where the bridge of your nose meets the ridge of your eyebrows.
3. The base of the skull in the parallel hollow areas between the two vertical neck muscles.
4. Between your two eyebrows where the bridge of your nose meets your forehead (the third eye).
5. At the edge of your shoulder, halfway between your shoulder point and the base of your neck.

Sinus + Tension Headache Relief + Prevention

Sinus + Tension Headache Relief + Prevention | TYLENOL®
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Just like there are many different types of headaches, there are many different ways to relieve and prevent them. If you are still experiencing headache pain, you may need a headache reliever such as TYLENOL^® Extra Strength.

As always if you think you’re having migraines or cluster headaches, or have any other questions or concerns, please consult your doctor.

Quick Relief

Take a hot bath or shower to relax and ease sore muscles.
This is especially helpful for tension headaches and sinus headaches.

Take a walk outside.
Fresh air and increasing blood flow can go a long way to relieve a headache, especially if it removes you from common causes of a headache like
strong smells or harsh lighting.

Headache Prevention

One of the most common causes of a headache is stress.
To help prevent a tension headache brought on by stress, try this simple therapeutic breathing exercise:

Sit
Sit or lie down comfortably and rest your hand on your stomach, just below your rib cage.

Breathe
Slowly breathe in through your nose, focusing on your stomach expanding up and out as your lungs fill.

Exhale
Exhale slowly through your mouth, letting your stomach empty and fall.

Repeat
Repeat 10 to 20 times, as needed.

How Sleep Habits Can Cause Headaches

How Sleep Habits Can Cause Headaches
Inconsistent sleep patterns can lead to stress, fatigue, and anxiety—
all common cause of headaches. If you feel you aren’t getting enough sleep, try changing your pillows, sleep positions, or the side of the bed you sleep on!

Trigger Tracking

A key way to prevent headaches is to find out which triggers affect you.
Keep a running list of when your headaches occur along with what happened
in the hours before onset. Some important questions to ask when
considering how to prevent a headache include:

• Did you eat? What was it and at what time?
• Were you inside or outside? Bright or fluorescent light
  are a common migraine trigger.
• Were there any strong smells, perfumes, or odors?

Pain relief you can count on.

Feel a headache coming on? Try a few simple relaxation exercises to stop a stress headache in its tracks.

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Foods That Help Headaches – Foods for Headache Relief

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When a headache strikes, you may run through your usual routine: Turn out the lights, lie down and pop a pain pill. But did you know that certain foods may ease, and even prevent, headaches? Add these soothing foods to your shopping list and find out for yourself.

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Baked Potato

The side you love with dinner could help soothe your aching head, especially if your headache is alcohol-related, says Erin Palinski, RD, a registered dietician in private practice in New Jersey. “Since alcohol is a diuretic, it can not only cause dehydration, but also cause you to lose electrolytes such as potassium,” she says. “Eating potassium-rich foods can help to alleviate hangover-related headaches.” Surprisingly, a baked potato (with the skin) is one of the most impressive sources of potassium, containing a whopping 721 mg. By comparison, a banana serves up 467 mg.

Watermelon

Dehydration is a major cause of headaches, explains Stella Metsovas, BS, CN, a nutritionist in private practice in Laguna Beach, California. So instead of popping a pain pill next time your head throbs, consider reaching for water-rich foods, like watermelon. “The natural water contained in both fruits and vegetables contains essential minerals, like magnesium, that are key in headache prevention,” she says. Try this tasty, hydrating watermelon smoothie: In a blender, combine 2 cups seeded watermelon chunks, 1 cup cracked ice, ½ cup plain yogurt, a drizzle of honey and ½ tsp grated ginger. Blend and enjoy. (Bonus: The ginger can help ease headache-induced nausea symptoms!) Other foods with high water content include berries, cucumber, melon, soups, oatmeal, tomatoes and lettuce.

Coffee

Java has been a folk remedy for headaches for centuries, but does it really work? Yes, but in moderation, says Palinski. “Alcohol can cause blood vessels to expand, exasperating headaches,” she explains. “Since the caffeine in coffee is a vasoconstrictor, it can help alleviate a headache by helping to reduce the size of the blood vessels.” But hold off on the triple venti. Too much coffee could make matters worse. “Caffeine is also a diuretic, which can increase dehydration and increase the severity of a headache,” adds Palinski. “The bottom line: One cup of coffee may be helpful for decreasing hangover-related headaches, but drinking coffee throughout the day would not be the best choice for curing a headache.”

Whole-Grain Toast

Low-carb dieters beware: Too little carbohydrates and you might bring on a headache. “When you follow a low-carbohydrate diet, you begin to deplete glycogen stores, which are a main source of energy to the brain,” says Palinski. “This also causes an increase in fluid losses from the body, which can trigger dehydration. By reducing energy to the brain and causing dehydration, these low-carbohydrate diets can trigger headaches.” When one hits, consider reaching for healthy carbs, such as those found in whole-wheat bread, oatmeal, fruit or yogurt. Bonus: A healthy boost of carbs may also improve your mood, as they help your body to release serotonin, the feel-good hormone.

Almonds

According to past research, magnesium, found in almonds, may protect your body from the brunt of a headache by relaxing blood vessels. Migraine sufferers may also experience relief by following a diet rich in magnesium, some experts believe. “To increase your magnesium intake, try consuming magnesium-rich foods such as bananas, dried apricots, avocados, almonds, cashews, brown rice, legumes and seeds,” suggests Palinski.

Spicy Salsa

Can you say caliente? It may sound unusual, but spicy foods such as salsa and hot peppers may help you snap back from a headache faster. “Depending on the type of headache, spicy foods may be helpful,” says Palinski. “If a headache is due to sinus congestion, spicy foods may help to decrease congestion and open the airways, helping to decrease pressure and the accompanying headache.”

Yogurt

When your head is pounding, your body may be calling out for calcium, says Metsovas. “The brain depends on calcium to function efficiently,” she adds. “Make sure you are consuming calcium-rich foods, like fat-free plain Greek yogurt, which is a great source of calcium, with no added sugars and beneficial probiotics for your gut.”

Sesame Seeds

Sprinkle them on salads, in oatmeal or on top of soups and stir-fries. Why? These tiny seeds pack a big nutritional punch. “Sesame seeds are rich in vitamin E, which may help to stabilize estrogen levels and prevent migraines during your period,” says Palinski. “It also improves circulation, which helps prevent headaches. ” Bonus: Sesame seeds are also rich in magnesium, which may give them added headache-preventing power.

Spinach Salad

What worked for Popeye may work for your headache. “Spinach has been shown to help decrease blood pressure, prevent hangovers and may help to alleviate headaches,” says Palinksi. “Try using spinach leaves instead of lettuce for a headache-preventing power salad.” This summer salad is packed with headache-soothing foods: Toss together 2 cups spinach leaves, 3/4 cups cubed watermelon, 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots and 2 Tbsp chopped walnuts or almonds, and drizzle with raspberry vinaigrette.

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The 8 Best Teas for Headaches and Migraines

1.

Chamomile tea

Chamomile is a soothing herbal tea that’s great to drink when you have a headache. Chamomile works to reduce inflammation, which can cause headache pain. Chamomile has also been shown to help lessen stress and anxiety, which can often be a contributing factor to headaches.

Our chamomile teas

Egyptian Chamomile Herbal Tea, Lavender Lullaby Herbal Tea, Honeybush Hot Cider Herbal Tea

2. Peppermint tea

Peppermint has been shown to help treat tension-type headaches, which are the most common type of headaches. A soothing cup of tea can reduce pain and help you to relax when you’re suffering from a headache. Peppermint is often blended with other herbs and spices like lavender and ginger for additional healing and therapeutic effects. Other benefits of peppermint tea include increasing alertness, calming upset stomachs, and reducing stress.

Our Peppermint teas

Lemon Mint Menage Black Tea, Peppermint Herbal Tea, Alice’s Peppermint Party Herbal Tea, Sing Your Song Herbal Tea, Lavender Mint Herbal Tea, Chocolate Mint Rooibos Herbal Tea

3.

Ginger tea

Ginger is a potent herb that is full of health benefits and has been used as a component of herbal medicine for centuries. Studies have shown that ginger can help to reduce headache pain. Other benefits of ginger tea include boosting the immune system, increasing energy, and reducing inflammation.

Our ginger teas

Masala Chai Black Tea, Solstice Spice Black Tea, Linda’s Lemon Ginger Green Tea, Atomic Gold Herbal Tea, Sing Your Song Herbal Tea, Rooibos Chai Herbal Tea

4. Clove tea

Cloves are a pungent spice that are often featured in spiced tea blends like herbal and caffeinated versions of chai. Cloves have been shown to reduce headache pain and have an analgesic effect. Cloves also have antiviral and antimicrobial properties that can help to protect you against illness.

Our clove teas

Masala Chai Black Tea, Solstice Spice Black Tea, Mulled Wine Fruit Blend Herbal Tea, Rooibos Chai Herbal Tea

5. Turmeric tea

The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin. Curcumin has been shown to have neuroprotective effects, and can help to mitigate migraine and headache pain. Turmeric adds a bright golden hue to any tea its added to, and has a woody, earthy taste that is complemented by other spices.

Our turmeric teas

Turmeric Mango Green Tea, Atomic Gold Herbal Tea

6. Lavender tea

Lavender is a soothing medicinal herb that has been used in herbal medicine to treat a wide variety of illnesses, from headaches to anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that lavender aromatherapy can help to treat migraine headaches and reduce headache severity.

Our lavender teas

Earl Grey Lavender Black Tea, Miss Violet Purple Leaf Tea, Lavender Lullaby Herbal Tea, Lavender Mint Herbal Tea, Tuscan Sun Herbal Tea

7. Other herbal teas

Even if a tea doesn’t contain a beneficial herbal ingredient like those listed above, a nice cup of herbal tea can still have a soothing effect that helps to reduce pain. Herbal tea is also a great way to stay hydrated, and dehydration can contribute to headaches.

8. Caffeinated teas

Caffeinated teas like black, green, white, and oolong teas may also help relieve symptoms if you’re suffering from a headache. All teas made from the camellia sinensis plant contain caffeine, which can help increase the effectiveness of over the counter pain medication and soothe headache symptoms. However, you should proceed with caution when using caffeine to treat a headache – sometimes, too much caffeine can make a headache even worse, and regular caffeine consumption is sometimes linked with an increased occurrence of headaches and migraines.

10 Best Foods for Headache Relief, Backed by Science

Don’t have a pain reliever on hand when you feel a headache coming on? As long as you’re near a properly-stocked kitchen, you should be fine. What most people don’t realize is that there are plenty of natural headache remedies that you can find in your own pantry. That’s right! The best foods for headaches can actually prevent headaches from coming on.

Here, we take a look at the evidence-backed foods that can prevent and relieve headache pain. After you’ve skimmed through this list, bookmark this page so that you’ll be armed with the information you need if you’re stuck with a debilitating headache.

Another tip if you’re regularly plagued with pain: Keep a headache journal. Although there are a few classic foods that trigger and soothe headaches, everybody responds differently to diet-based remedies. If you write down what you’ve eaten both before and after your headache comes on, it can help you understand what could be triggering them and which remedies work best for you. For even more health facts, check out What Happens to Your Body When You Drink a Smoothie Every Day.

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Strange, but true: Dry mouth = a debilitating headache. Yes, that’s right, one of the primary causes of headaches is dehydration. And oftentimes, when your body is in need of water, it’s also in need of electrolytes like potassium. Once you feed your body the nutrients it needs, the pain will likely subside. So next time you feel a headache coming on, bake a russet potato and enjoy it skin and all! One large tater packs more than three times the amount of potassium as a banana (which is often thought of as the most potent source). And since a potato is about 75 percent water, so it’s uber hydrating, too!

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Made up of 97 percent water, the mighty cucumber is another vegetable that can help you stay hydrated and headache-free. Slice some up and enjoy it with hummus or combine the veggie with some tomatoes, red onion, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and black pepper for a simple summer salad. For more summer salad recipes you’re sure to love, check out these salad recipes for weight loss.

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If you’re prone to getting headaches at a certain time of day or after a certain activity (like excessive computer use), ward off the pain by nibbling on some cherries. Not only does the red, vibrant fruit provide your bod with some h3O to keep dehydration-related pain away, they also contain compounds that convert to nitric oxide in the blood, a naturally occurring gas that may help protect against tension headaches and migraines. Beetroot and beetroot juice will also have the same effect.

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According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, consuming adequate amounts of riboflavin (AKA vitamin B2) can help keep migraines at bay. Thankfully most cereals are fortified with the nutrient, so it’s super easy to sneak it into your daily diet. Wheaties, Fiber One, and All Bran are all Eat This-approved and overflowing with the soothing nutrient. Curious which cereals to steer clear of? Check out our special report about the unhealthiest breakfast cereals.

Kiersten Hickman/Eat This, Not That!

If your headaches tend to sideline you for hours, you might want to consider noshing on some spicy bites to speed up the recovery process—if the pain is stemming from congestion, at least. If a headache is due to sinus congestion, spicy foods may help to decrease the pressure and open the airways, which helps decrease the pain, explains registered dietitian Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDE, LDN, CPT. Interested in giving it a go? Add some hot salsa or chili peppers to an omelet or homemade burrito bowl, or give one of these creative ways to eat hot sauce a try.

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Magnesium, which is found in abundance in pumpkin seeds, Brazil nuts, and almonds, may ward off head pain by relaxing blood vessels. (Just a half cup of pumpkin seeds provides nearly 100 percent of your daily magnesium needs.) More fun facts on the essential nutrient: Magnesium is responsible for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including brain and muscle function. Ignore your body’s need for it and you won’t just wind up with headaches. Muscle aches and overall fatigue are also common indicators that you’re not getting enough of the nutrient in your life.

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While getting headaches from time to time is normal, having them every day after embarking on a low-carb weight loss plan is a sign you may have taken things too far. “Carbs don’t require any additional processing to make glucose, so they keep blood sugar levels steady quite effectively,” says registered dietitian Isabel Smith, MS, RD, CDN. “However, when you don’t eat enough carbs, blood sugar levels can dip and cause headaches.” Incorporate some carb- and water-rich produce like apples, pears, and carrots to keep the pounds coming off while keeping the head-pounding pain at bay. Healthy carbs like oatmeal and brown rice are also smart picks, as they soak up water during the cooking process.

If you couldn’t imagine going a day without stopping at Starbucks, your headaches are, more often than not, a result of caffeine withdrawal. When you regularly consume the stimulant, it leads to physical dependence. The result: You’ll likely experience a throbbing headache if you miss a dose. While the reason for this is not yet fully understood, some medical experts say that caffeine relaxes blood vessels—so when it’s been a while since your last cup, the vessels constrict and cause pain. To counteract the pain, get yourself a small cup of coffee or tea—emphasis on the word small. If you guzzle down too much, and you’ll likely just get another headache when you come down off your caffeine high.

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If you’re only eating sesame seeds when you order an everything bagel or some sesame chicken, you’re missing out of one of the best migraine-busting foods around. The tiny seed is filled with vitamin E, a nutrient that stabilizes estrogen levels, warding off period-related migraines. It’s also rich in L-arginine, a precursor of nitric oxide, the same naturally occurring gas found in cherries, that may help protect against tension headaches and migraines in both men and women. Sprinkle them on your oatmeal or on top of soups and stir-fries to reap the benefits. For more foods like sesame seeds, check out The 15 Best Vitamin E-Rich Foods.

How to Get Rid of a Headache Naturally

Olive Oil for Headache Relief

It’s one of our favorite tips from our book Who Knew? Household Shortcuts: As soon as you feel a headache coming on, head for your kitchen! Scientific studies have shown that just a few teaspoons of olive oil eaten at the onset of a headache can have an anti-inflammatory effect, reducing pain as well as ibuprofen does. Mix it with balsamic vinegar and enjoy it on a salad or some bread.

Boost Low Blood Sugar

If you tend to get headaches in the late mornings, late afternoons, and after a long nap, they might be due to low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia. These headaches can be helped by eating foods that release sugar slowly, such as bananas, whole grains, and oats. Getting adequate protein with each meal—30 grams is a good start—can keep your blood sugar levels from fluctuating and may also prevent headaches.

Stay Hydrated

Many headaches are caused by dehydration. Before you reach for the pain reliever, try drinking two or three glasses of water or an energy drink like Gatorade. You may find you’re back to normal in no time.

Old-Time Headache Remedy

It may be an old wives’ tale, but Bruce’s grandfather used to swear that an effective way to treat headaches is to cut a lime in half and rub it on your forehead. In a few minutes, the throbbing should subside.

Rest Your Eyes

Less-than-perfect eyesight can trigger headaches because the muscles around the eyes squeeze in order to focus. If your headaches come on after reading or working at a computer, make sure you give your eyes a rest every 15 minutes by focusing on a distant object for at least a minute. You may also want to get your eyes examined to see if you need glasses or a new prescription.

See Also: When to Worry About a Headache

Watch What You Eat

Headaches may be caused by reactions to foods and food substances such as MSG, chocolate, gluten, alcohol, sulfites, nitrites, and fermented foods, such as cheese and yogurt. Since it can sometimes take up to 72 hours for a headache to occur after eating one of these foods, it can be difficult to find a correlation. Keeping a detailed diary of what you eat and when your head hurts can be helpful, or just try to limit these foods entirely.

Herbal Help for Headaches

Feverfew, a relative of the sunflower, has been shown to help reduce inflammation that causes headaches. Look for it in capsule form in your health food store. While you’re there, grab some peppermint oil. Rubbing a small amount into your hairline and temples will create a tingly aroma that will encourage relaxation. Ginger can also reduce inflammation—try adding freshly crushed ginger root (about one inch) to boiling water to make a potent tea.

Ease Muscle Tension

Tense muscles in the head, neck, and shoulders can constrict blood flow and make your head pound. Practicing yoga, seeing a massage therapist or chiropractor, or trying these simple stretches can relieve tension. You may also be unconsciously clenching your jaw when you’re stressed. Try paying closer attention to your body, and the next time you notice yourself clenching, place a pencil between your teeth and hold it. It will serve as a reminder not to bite down hard. With time, you may be able to train your jaw not to clench, thus avoiding those painful headaches.

See Also: Nutrition Tips for Headache Prevention

How to Get Rid of Headaches with Acupressure

Much like acupuncture, acupressure involves stimulating trigger points on your body to heal all sorts of ailments, including nausea, sinus allergies, insomnia, and—yes—headaches. For headaches, this trigger point is on your hand: the thick, fleshy patch of skin between your thumb and forefinger. Using firm pressure, massage this “web” part of your hand in a circular direction for a few minutes; then repeat on your opposite hand. Your headache should eventually subside, as this trigger point is believed to connect directly to the source of pain.

Nuts for Headaches

Did you know that almonds can help a headache? They contain a compound called salicin, an all-natural pain reducer similar to aspirin. Eat a “dose” of 20 almonds per day for a tasty way to prevent head pain before it starts.

For more natural remedies, check out our Health and Beauty Tips board on Pinterest. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Facebook for our Tip of the Day!

The suggestions offered here are for informational purposes only.  The author and publisher do not accept liability for damages arising from the use, attempted use, misuse, or application of any of the suggestions included on this website.

90,000 Four of the best ways to quickly relieve headaches!

We are used to grabbing analgesics as soon as it starts pounding in the temples or squeezing the back of the head. Although it is known that these drugs have a lot of side effects – they have a bad effect on the stomach, and it is difficult for the liver to be excreted, and the kidneys are overloaded. It’s good if the head is your strong point and you swallow pills no more than once every six months.

And if your head is cracking almost every day? The reasons are most often either vascular, or they are tension pains – from stress and a forced posture at a desk or driving a car.How to deal with headaches without pills? Here is what experts advise:

1. Massage

It has been scientifically proven that if a person often suffers from headaches and at the same time spends a little of his time for massage at least 2-3 times a week, then he will have at least seizures half as often and much weaker. Massage restores blood supply and allows the body to relax – and this relieves spasms – the main cause of pain. In addition, head massage is very pleasant.Do it in smooth circular motions – moving from the back of the head to the forehead. And the bio-point, which is responsible for the normalization of blood pressure, is located under the occipital protuberance [self-massage for headaches – in the BTW rubric].

2. Stretching

Tension pain occurs due to stagnation of blood in the area of ​​the collar zone and because the muscles become numb and “stiff”. It’s that simple! Knead your neck, lifting your head up, then lowering it down, then left and right and finally make circular movements with your head.Moreover, at the end point of each movement, we make a stretching movement with the neck and fix the neck and head in this position for 10 seconds. Then five seconds of rest and proceed to the next movement.

3. Warm – cold

If the pain is pulsating, then you can apply ice or a wet towel to the temples – here are important arteries that supply blood to the cerebral cortex. A slight decrease in temperature can quickly numb headaches, according to CNN Health.On the contrary, if the pain is pressing, then you should put something warm on the back of the neck – this will create an outflow of blood and lower the pressure.

4. Relaxed atmosphere

Very often we cannot cope with headaches without medication simply because we cannot relax. Hence the constant overvoltage. Give your poor little head “unloading” minutes – at least 20 minutes after a working day, listen to pleasant background music (preferably without words, so as not to concentrate on the meaning of the song and not start humming), learn to control your breathing according to the yogic principle (breathe with your stomach, “knock down” breathing rhythm – it helps relieve stress).And the most important thing is to train yourself to clear your head of all extraneous thoughts for a short time! According to scientists, in a day we assimilate only 5-7% of the necessary information, all other thoughts are empty chores.

BTW

It is better to do self-massage while sitting. All points need to be pressed with an average force for 1-1.5 minutes each.

So, if you have a pain:

LOB

The first point is located above the bridge of the nose – in the middle between the eyebrows.Roll your thumb with your fingernail down and apply pressure with the pad.

Next, find a point located on the midline of the face 1-1.5 cm above the front border of hair growth. Press on it with the pad of your thumb.

From above, inspect your hand with tightly folded fingers. A muscle tubercle is formed between the large and the index. The point we need will be in its center. Press down firmly with the thumb of your other hand. Massage the points on both hands alternately.

WHISKEY

Feel the hole in your temple – this will be the “sun” point, especially revered in Chinese massage.It is better to massage these points with the middle fingers at the same time.

The next point is located on the head just behind the top of the ear. Press on both points at the same time with the pad of your middle finger.

BUTTON

First, knead the muscles in the neck and shoulders well.

Then, with your index fingers, massage the brow ridges from the bridge of the nose to the center with light circular movements.

Find the point under the occipital protuberance. Massage it a little longer – 2-2.5 minutes.

10 tips to help you overcome a headache

How to get rid of a headache quickly and without pills? What to do to stop her from bothering you anymore?

Headache is what interferes with normal work and life in general. It often happens that no pills help anymore. What to do in such a situation? There is only one answer: to look for a solution to the problem, taking into account the reason. By the way, you can get rid of a headache without the help of pills. How exactly, we will now tell you.

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Causes of pain

Before drinking another pain reliever, find out the cause of the headache.This is how you can quickly overcome the unpleasant condition. So, often pain in the head occurs due to stress, alcohol, fatigue, sleep disturbances, as well as with hyperthermia, migraine, high blood pressure and other diseases of the cardiovascular system. Pay attention to the frequency of pain: if it happens more than once a week, see a specialist.

Folk remedies

Folk remedies are, of course, good, but always remember that there are contraindications.So, you cannot use such methods for head and neck injuries, an allergic reaction or high temperature. You should also be careful with folk remedies and pregnant women. If you realize that non-traditional methods of treatment will not bring you any harm, take note of a few recommendations.

Drink water

What is our body made of 70-80%? Of course, out of the water. We cannot do without her. And if suddenly we do not have enough water, the body begins to signal about it.Therefore, headache is one of the signs of dehydration. To get rid of the unpleasant symptom, just drink a couple of glasses of plain water. By the way, try not to be in stuffy rooms: it is there that there is a high risk of headaches.

Shower

Another easy way to get rid of your headache is to take a warm shower. Make sure the water is not hot. To relieve tension and improve circulation, direct water to your neck and back.A head massage is also useful – massage the hair roots thoroughly.

Brew tea

Severe headache may be due to a malfunction of the cardiovascular system. In this case, drink hot tea, preferably chamomile. It will release tension and oxygenate the brain cells. Mint infusion is also useful. Pour boiling water over this plant and insist for 15-20 minutes. So you will calm down and get rid of the headache.

Use lemon and ginger

Did you know that lemon is a good analgesic and antiseptic? Apply lemon zest to your temples and see the result.By the way, you can add lemon juice to the water. Ginger is also helpful in fighting headaches. It is an anti-inflammatory and diuretic that also strengthens the immune system. Make yourself some tea, add ginger and lemon there. This makes a great drink for headaches.

Relax

Do you often get tired? Do you feel the tension? This is what can be the cause of your torment. Try to relax may sound superficial. Therefore, we say openly: give yourself a mindset to take a bath tonight, listen to music or rush out with friends.Do what your heart desires. Well, meditate more often – this method helps to distract from everyday life.

Sleep

This point is a continuation of the previous one. Headache? Take a comfortable position, tilt your head back a little, close your eyes and spend 10-15 minutes like this. Even a little rest will give results and ease your condition. Lack of sleep is what makes you feel worse. Everyone knows this, but, unfortunately, many neglect the correct regime.

Get a massage

What could be more beautiful than a massage? After all, this method perfectly copes with tension, spasm and pain. And if you also find out which points you need to act on, it will be absolutely wonderful. We advise you to contact a professional who will select massage movements specifically for you.

If you decide to master this procedure yourself, then remember a few important rules. While doing self-massage, you should not feel any discomfort.The movements are always light and fluid. Do not put too much pressure on the problem area. After completing the massage, take some rest and think about something pleasant.

The easiest way is to massage the head. You need to lie down and throw your head back. Then massage your neck from top to bottom and vice versa. Then go to the top of the head. Place your fingertips on your temples and start rubbing your skin. This should be done within 4-5 minutes. Now go to the auricle and stroke the earlobes.Take your time, massage your head slowly.

Pay attention to acupressure. Chinese medicine claims that several important points can be found on the head. They are called acupressure. Let’s try to figure this out. But before that, we advise you to consult a doctor.

yint. The first point is on the forehead – between the eyebrows. To improve the condition, press on it for 30 seconds.

juliao. The important points are located between the upper lip and the nose, parallel to the corners of the lips.Massage them for two minutes.

Quanzhu. The point is located near the bridge of the nose. Massage it in smooth movements for one minute.

Tianzhu. And you will find this point at the hairline, above the upper vertebra. Massage should be done for one minute.

Qubin. The points are located at the temples, more precisely above the ear. Rub it in for one minute.

Make a compress

This method is quite effective.If your headache is throbbing, a cold compress will help, if you have a pressing headache, a warm one. The main thing is to get into a comfortable position and try to relax for at least 15 minutes.

Perform aromatherapy

You often feel pressure in your temples, buy essential oil and arrange aromatherapy. For example, oils of almonds, mint, lavender can bring blood pressure back to normal and cope with depression. As for almonds, it is an effective pain reliever.Mint, as we said, has a good effect on the nervous system. Lavender puts your thoughts in order and gives you peace of mind.

Strengthen your immune system

Worried about a regular headache? Folk recipes advise every day on an empty stomach to drink a glass of warm water, to which 1 teaspoon of honey is added. This is especially useful if pain occurs with a cold, runny nose, or sinusitis. By the way, chokeberry juice is also recognized as a good preventive measure.You need to take it in 2 tablespoons 15 minutes before meals.

To get rid of pain in the head, you do not need to constantly resort to medication. We have shared with you ways that will help you quickly cope with an unpleasant condition. Use them and be healthy!

Head massage for headache (acupressure)

Headache is a rather unpleasant symptom that is familiar to almost every person. It is especially difficult for people suffering from chronic pain and migraines.

Constantly taking medications is not an option, since it is difficult to independently determine the true cause of pain – it can be vasospasm, curvature of the spine, hyper- or hypotension, sinusitis and even intestinal obstruction. In addition, frequent and uncontrolled use of pills negatively affects the condition of the liver.

A good addition to medical treatment is head massage, which helps to reduce or completely get rid of headaches.The area of ​​the neck is also being worked out – in this area, nerves are most often pinched and the vessels going to the brain are narrowed.

How does massage help relieve headaches?

The principle of action is mechanical stimulation of the skin, muscles and blood vessels of the head and neck. The position of the patient is sitting with a straight back. The duration of the session is approximately 20 minutes.

Massage movements are carried out strictly in the direction of hair growth and along the glands, otherwise the opposite effect is possible – an increase in the headache.The main massage techniques are stroking, rubbing, light blows with the fingertips, vibration, pinching and kneading.

As a result of these manipulations, the following effects are observed:

1. on the part of the nervous system: regulation of excitability (depending on the goal – decrease or increase), the activity of internal organs improves, since the nerve endings of the autonomic nervous system are affected;
2. on the part of the lymphatic system: the movement of lymph is accelerated, as well as its cleansing;
3. on the part of the circulatory system: blood supply improves, the blood is saturated with oxygen, the number of erythrocytes and platelets increases, decay products are removed, blood vessels dilate;
4. on the part of the muscular system: relieving excessive tension, increasing blood flow (and with it oxygen) to the muscles of the head and neck, accelerating metabolic and recovery processes.

It should be borne in mind that only proper massage will relieve headaches. The specialist must have exact anatomical knowledge, strictly follow the technique of execution. If the session is carried out by an unqualified master, there is a high risk of getting a completely opposite result in the form of increased pain, hematomas, depression and deterioration of well-being.

In addition to the classical method, for headaches, acupressure gives good results.

Mechanical action on certain parts of the body stimulates nerve endings that transmit impulses to the cerebral cortex, where a response is formed.Thanks to this, processes are activated throughout the body, helping to cope with pains of various kinds, including headaches.

Things to Consider Before Using Acupressure

Firstly, this technique has a list of contraindications:

• Oncology;
• traumatic brain injury;
• state of drug and alcohol intoxication, hangover;
• hematomas and inflammations in the massaged areas;
• increased body temperature.

Secondly, the hair should be pulled up in a bun before the massage.

Third, you need to know the true cause of the pain, otherwise massage may not bring the desired results. Accordingly, the first thing to do is see your doctor for a diagnosis.

The acupressure technology has some special features:

• mechanical action is carried out in a circular motion, without lifting the finger from the skin, for one minute per point;
• the pressure intensity should increase gradually;
• it is important that the massage takes place in a calm environment;
• the distance between the points – cun – is individual for each person, therefore, its correct calculation is extremely important.

The main points of massage for headache are localized on the head, arms and feet. Among them:

• Fen-chi (gate of consciousness, VB 20) – at the base of the skull in the depression between the vertical muscles of the neck;
• Feng-fu (VG 16 wind lock) – above the spine, in a depression under the base of the skull;
• Yin-tang (point of the third eye, VG 24.5) – between the eyebrows in the hollow at the junction of the forehead bones and the bridge of the nose;
• Ju-liao (pretty face, E3) – on the cheekbone, along the pupil line;
• He-gu (valley entrance, GI 4) – on the back of the hand between the thumb and forefinger – used only for relieving headaches caused by intestinal obstruction;
• Tai Chun (More Onslaught, F3) – Between the big and fore toes on the top of the foot;
• Tszu-lin-chi (above tears, VB 41) – above the cavity between the ring finger and the little toe.

This method is quite simple to implement, so it can be performed independently, but subject to the exact location of the necessary points. If you are not sure that you have found the right zones correctly, or after their stimulation, hematomas appeared, pain increased or dizziness arose, you must immediately stop self-massage and contact a professional master.

You can take a course of head massage at the branches of the State Budgetary Healthcare Institution “Toksovskaya MB” at the addresses:

p.Toksovo, Bulanova st., 18, in-patient department of the State Budgetary Healthcare Institution “Toksovskaya MB”, Department of Physiotherapy, phone number for appointment:

8 (81370) 57-171

Tsymbalova Evgeniya Alekseevna

Novoye Devyatkino, Energetikov str., 4, polyclinic Novoye Devyatkino, you can sign up by phone:

+7 (81370) -43-154, 383-59-95

or at the posts of the polyclinic

90,000 Doctors told how to deal with headaches due to weather changes

At the beginning of the week, a record high air temperature was recorded in the capital.At the same time, by the weekend, the thermometer will rapidly decrease and already on Saturday can reach 10 degrees below zero. Such temperature swings can negatively affect some population groups, most often cause headaches. Doctors told Moscow 24 how to cope with the problem without the help of medication. Read the details in our material.

Who will face

Photo: depositphotos / AndrewLozovyi

Headaches are one of the most common problems people face during periods of large temperature jumps.

According to the therapist Nadezhda Chernyshova, spasms occur primarily because the vessels do not have time to rebuild under new conditions. “Headaches when the weather changes are associated with the fact that blood vessels cannot quickly change their work. For example, venous congestion in the veins of the brain may occur, which leads to headaches,” the specialist explained.

In turn, therapist Viktor Lishin noted that people who have chronic diseases will most of all suffer from weather instability.”The respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract – surprisingly. Yes, in principle, all chronic diseases are at risk,” – said the interlocutor of Moscow 24.

He also indicated a number of other diseases.

Hypertensive patients are exposed to atmospheric pressure and pressure drops, everyone who has problems with blood pressure, people who have physical inactivity, that is, inactive, as well as people who, in principle, have weak blood vessels.

Viktor Lishin

General practitioner

Patients of oncology departments and people with spinal problems are also at risk.”At a time when the pressure changes, it affects the blood flow in a certain way, it changes. And if there are problems with the spine, this all makes itself felt,” Lishin explained.

He added that during pressure drops, not only the head can ache, but also old serious injuries and fractures.

Fight without pills

Photo: depositphotos / belchonock

The easiest and most popular way to cope with this problem is to take pain relievers. However, the weather can change for a long time, and regular intake of drugs can negatively affect the body.

There are several simple ways to cope with headaches due to changes in atmospheric pressure without medication. Moreover, people suffering from meteorological dependence and knowing about it can prepare for weather instability much in advance.

Prevention

According to Chernyshova, the vessels can be “trained” so that they can more easily adapt to changes in atmospheric pressure. “It is easy to do this: for example, to walk barefoot on different surfaces. It is easier, of course, to do this summer: walk on the ground, then on pebbles, then immerse your feet in cold water in the sea or in a lake, then in hot sand”, – the doctor explained.

A regular contrast shower is also suitable for vascular tone.

Contrast shower

Contrast shower is also suitable for relieving headaches that have already been hit. It can also be done outside the home. For this purpose, wrists are fine. “In fact, there are as many receptors in the wrists as there are in the feet. Therefore, immersing your hands in water will also help to relieve pain, or may even stop it,” said Chernyshova.

According to the doctor, it is enough to immerse your wrists in the hottest and coldest water possible in turn for two seconds.A minute of such a mini-shower – and it will already become easier.

Gymnastics

Photo: depositphotos / amixstudio

Light gymnastics in the morning is perfect for vascular tone. “You don’t need much physical exertion, stand on your head, and so on. A few simple exercises: swinging your arms, legs, bending and squatting, rotating your head to stretch your neck. Simple exercises – and the vessels are already in good shape,” Chernyshova explained.

According to Dr. Lishin, a few minutes of breathing exercises are also great for relieving headaches.

Water and tea regimen

The doctor notes that it is especially important for meteorological people with surges in atmospheric pressure to drink a lot of water – at least one and a half to two liters a day.

“In addition to water, you can drink green tea, hibiscus is a very useful tea for problems with blood pressure. Caffeine in a small amount is also possible, but black tea is better for this instead of coffee,” added Lishin.

Fresh air

Saturation of the body with oxygen is very important on these days.Therefore, regardless of weather conditions, Chernyshova recommends going for a walk and breathing fresh air for at least 10-15 minutes.

“If this is absolutely impossible, then you should at least ventilate the apartment. And thoroughly, right before the cold – to change the stagnant air for fresh air. Oxygen is important,” said the therapist.

Tranquility

Photo: depositphotos / Jeanette.Dietl

The main advice of doctors is that in days of weather instability it is better not to plan anything grandiose.”You need to rest more, get enough sleep and strain less so as not to provoke pain,” Lishin said.

So, knowing in advance about weather anomalies, it is better to immediately unload the day, not to plan for anything energy-consuming, but to spend time at an average pace.

Read also

90,000 Pain in the occiput (occipital region, in the back of the head) – diagnosis and treatment in Kazan

How serious is it and can it be tolerated?

Occipital pain of any nature (dull, acute, sudden, shooting) not only gives a person the strongest discomfort, makes him change his lifestyle, but also indicates a malfunction in the neurovascular or vertebral system of a person.

Pain in the back of the head cannot be tolerated, they must be removed. But pills are not a panacea. When you numb the pain with pills, the cause of this pain does not go away, and the painful sensations come back after a while. Therefore, self-medication is unacceptable!

Pain in the back of the head can be a manifestation of more than 45 different diseases, malfunctions and disorders in the body. They need to be found and eliminated.

Online appointment for a consultation

Types, sensations and possible causes

Occipital pain can be of a different nature.It depends on what factors or diseases it is caused by.

Severe (sometimes unbearable) pain in the back of the head

Indicates acute inflammation. It develops against the background of such diseases as nerve neuralgia and meningitis

Pain in the occipital region with bouts of nausea

Signals of tumors and injuries. For example, about a concussion or other form of jaw-brain injury.

Pulsating pain in the occipital region

The cause should be sought in vasospasm, as well as arterial hypertension.

The back of the head was severely ill

It is a consequence of such pathologies as cervical myositis, cervical migraine, as well as subarachnoid hemorrhage. Attention! The latter disease is one of the most dangerous and rare types of stroke. In this case, urgent medical attention is needed!

The back of the head constantly hurts

When occipital pain becomes chronic, pathologies must be sought in the vertebral system of the body. They can be cervical osteochondrosis and cervical spondylosis.

Occipital pain with dizziness

This may indicate the presence of the following ailments: cervical myogelosis, arterial hypertension, and cervical osteochondrosis.

“Shooting” pain behind the head

Often occurs due to hypothermia, drafts, and exacerbation of chronic osteochondrosis.

“Pressing” pain in the back of the head

May be the result of overexertion, finding the body in the wrong posture, stress and even intracranial hypertension.

Pain in the back of the head cannot be underestimated. When the first symptoms appear, you should immediately go to the doctor. This will help prevent further development of the disease.

Methods of treatment at Alan Clinic Kazan

Osteopathy, manual therapy

Prescribed for neuralgia, intracranial pressure, cervical osteochondrosis, stress, as well as myogelosis.

Special exercise course

Effective regardless of type and reason.

Physiotherapy (magnetotherapy, electrophoresis, ultrasound, laser therapy, etc.)

Indicated for the detection of spondylosis, cervical osteochondrosis, myogelosis, increased intracranial pressure, vascular disorders, neuralgia.

Medicines

Used for exacerbations of chronic diseases or acute inflammatory processes.

Acupuncture and other types of reflexology

It is used if the cause of the malaise is neuralgia, osteochondrosis or stress.

In order to accurately and timely diagnose and carry out an effective and safe course of treatment, the Center of Neurology and Orthopedics “Alan Clinic” Kazan employs a strong team of neurologists with vast experience.

How to relieve a headache WITHOUT TABLETS: simple life hacks at home | THE CLIMATE IN THE HOUSE

WHEN THE HEAD HURTS, DOING EVEN YOUR FAVORITE BUSINESS BECOMES UNBEELABLE HARD. BUT HOW TO BE IF THE NECESSARY TABLETS ARE NOT AT HAND? WHAT IN THIS CASE HELPS A HEADACHE?

The causes of headaches vary from dehydration and lack of sleep to toxic gas poisoning, poor circulation and the onset of serious illness.To eliminate it, people take pain relievers. But when he is not there, a severe headache can be relieved in other ways.

1. GET A POINT MASSAGE

Acupressure, or acupressure, is a treatment by applying pressure to specific points of the body. No special knowledge is required for such a massage.

First you need to relax. Imagine that you are sitting by the fireplace, wrapping yourself in a blanket and drinking delicious hot tea. Breathe slowly and deeply.

Now massage each point with light circular motions for an average of 1–2 minutes.The pain will go away after about 5-10 minutes of massage.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, there are six main acupressure points on the head. To quickly understand where they are located, you can use a mirror.

Consult a specialist before the massage.

1. YINTAN

Remember how Indian girls draw a dot on their foreheads? This is where our first acupressure point is located: between the eyebrows, above the nose.
Press about 30 times and move on to the next one.

2. TSZUILAO

These two points are located in the lower part of the face, between the nose and the upper lip, on either side of the corners of the lips. Massage slowly for two minutes.

3. TSUANZHU

Above, at the inner corner of the eye, closer to the bridge of the nose. Massage for one minute.

4. TIANZHU

Behind, at the beginning of the spine, at the hairline. Massage for 1-2 minutes.

5. QUBIN

Points on both sides near the temples, above the ear.Massage for one minute.

6. HEGU

Located between the thumb and forefinger. Press on the point for 1-2 minutes.

2. GENERAL HEAD MASSAGE

In the fight against headaches, a general head massage can help you. Especially if the pain is caused by a spasm, as this massage improves blood circulation and helps relieve pain.

• Tilt your head back, slightly knead your neck with your fingers from top to bottom and vice versa. Movements should be spiral.Do this for two minutes.
• Then move on to the top of the head. Very gently and gently do the movements that resemble washing your hair. When performing such a self-massage, you should feel a pleasant warmth. The appearance of heat signals good blood circulation. Duration of massage: 5-7 minutes.
• Place your fingers on your temples, then massage them in a circular motion, moving from the temples along the ear to the back of the head. Massage for 3-5 minutes.
• Now massage your earlobes.Movements should be soft. Place your thumbs behind your ears, spread your fingers all over your head. The massage lasts 2-3 minutes.

After the general massage, rest, do not make sudden movements and start your business in 15 minutes.

3. CONDUCT AROMATHERAPY

In the 18th century, essential oils were used to treat various diseases: for a cold, inhalations with peppermint oil were made, for insomnia, they took a hot bath with chamomile or lavender. Nowadays, aromatic oils are easy to find on store shelves.They are used regularly both to prevent headaches and to relieve them.

Oil from the following plants will help relieve headaches:

• lavender;
• mint;
• coriander;
• eucalyptus;
• rosemary;
• angelica;
• basil;
• sandalwood;
• clary sage;
• linden;
• Yarrow, etc.

Essential oils should not be applied undiluted to the skin! Most of them are very concentrated and will cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction.Before using the oil, you must mix it with another neutral oil, for example, with apricot kernel oil, or with cream, shampoo, milk, yogurt, honey or sour cream. Fragrance oil can be inhaled using an aroma lamp, diffuser, or other means.

Eight ways of using aroma oil:

• Bath. Mix eight drops with one tablespoon of regular bath butter or milk, then add to the water.
• Diffuser. Aroma diffusers are special ultrasonic devices in which water with essential oil is added, and then, under the influence of ultrasound, aromatic vapor is sprayed.Add 3-4 drops per 15 m2 to the bowl. Turn it on for 15-20 minutes 2-3 times a day.
• Aroma lamp or candles. Light them 2-3 times a day.
• Compressor. Add a few drops of essential oil to warm water. Wet a towel and place it on your forehead.
• Facial massage. Mix about six drops with a tablespoon of massage oil. Now massage your face and neck in a circular motion.
• Full body massage. Add a few drops to a tablespoon of unscented massage oil.
• Inhalation. Add 3-5 drops to a large container of hot water. Take a towel, cover your head and inhale the aromatic vapor for five minutes (this method is not recommended for asthmatics).

Use only natural oils! Sometimes essential oils contain artificial fragrances that can backfire or even make things worse.

4. TAKE A SHOWER OR A BATH

One of the simplest and most effective ways to relieve headaches is a hot shower or bath.If the pain is associated with poor circulation due to pinched vertebrae, back problems or muscle spasm, then you need to dilate the vessels so that the blood circulates well and supplies oxygen to the cells. In this case, either a hot water bottle or a hot shower will do. Adding lavender oil diluted in milk to your hot water bath will not only relieve stress, but also relieve pain.

5. DRINK PURE WATER

Dehydration is one of the reasons why a small personal hell associated with headaches can easily start.Perhaps pain is just a signal from your body about a lack of moisture.

It is very important to drink clean water. Tap water can be hard, high in iron or chlorine. Therefore, to take care of your health, it is better to use a water filter.

6. SUPPLY FRESH AIR

High carbon dioxide levels are one of the most common causes of headaches.

In order to normalize the level of carbon dioxide, it is necessary to regularly ventilate the room.But open windows do not guarantee getting rid of migraines: noise, harmful gases and unpleasant odors can penetrate from the street, which will only intensify the pain. The breather supplies fresh air with the windows closed, cleaning it from dust, allergens and gases. It also has a climate control function and can heat the air in the room to the required temperature.

Go for a walk in squares and parks more often. Even fifteen minutes in the fresh air will help normalize heart function, relieve headaches, reduce stress and improve mood.

7. EAT LEMON, GINGER OR MINT

Some products help fight headaches:
Lemon. Apply lemon peel or zest to your temples and forehead, or mix a few drops of lemon with water and sip slowly to help relieve headaches.
A cup of lemon tea is also great.
Mint. Pour 200 ml of boiling water over one tablespoon of dried mint and leave for ten to fifteen minutes. Then strain the broth and drink.
Ginger.Make a cup of ginger tea. Not only will it relieve headaches, but it will also help improve immunity.
You need to prepare tea as follows:

in a small saucepan with boiling water, add a tablespoon of grated ginger root or a teaspoon of dry;
cook over low heat for several minutes;
strain and let it brew;
add tea and honey or sugar to taste;
Drink this ginger tea several times a day.
Ginger inhalation also helps. To do this, pour a few tablespoons of ginger with water and boil.Then cover your head with a towel, bend over the hot broth and inhale the steam.

8. DRINK TEA WITH Cinnamon

Drinking cinnamon helps to improve blood circulation, which is a prerequisite for saturating the body with oxygen and other nutrients.

Pour half a teaspoon of dry cinnamon or one straw with hot water (not boiling water). Add some sugar and leave for half an hour. Drink two sips every hour. In case of severe pain, it is necessary to make such a solution more concentrated.

Make cinnamon tea. To do this:

• Brew tea in a small kettle.
• Add one teaspoon dry cinnamon, ground ginger and a dash of black pepper.
• Leave for five minutes for the tea to brew and cool properly.
• Stir and add a teaspoon of honey. Honey contains vitamins A, C, E, B vitamins, potassium, iodine, calcium, magnesium. Calcium and magnesium improve cerebral blood flow and relieve pain. In addition, headaches can be caused by a drop in blood sugar levels.Honey will also solve this problem. It is important that the water is not too hot, otherwise honey will lose its medicinal properties. Scientists have found that when honey is heated above sixty degrees, oxidation of fructose begins, which turns into a carcinogen.
• Add a couple of orange wedges, lemon, lemon balm or mint to taste.
• Drink this tea for headaches several times a day.

There is another way to use cinnamon:

Prepare a thick mixture of ground cinnamon.Mix three teaspoons of cinnamon with a little water so that it resembles thick sour cream or pasta in consistency. Lie down, apply the mixture to your temples and forehead, and leave for half an hour. A warming cinnamon mixture will relieve headaches, especially if it is caused by a sharp change in weather and pressure drops.

People with gastrointestinal problems, heart problems and high blood pressure are better off drinking cinnamon in small amounts. Frequent consumption of cinnamon irritates the stomach lining, raises the heart rate and raises blood pressure.

Cinnamon is prohibited for nursing and pregnant women!

WHEN DO YOU NEED TO CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR?

Take your headache seriously.

You should consult a specialist if:

• headache more than once a week;
• You take the pill more than once a week;
• You need to increase your medication dose to relieve your headache;
• the pain becomes stronger or its nature, location changes;
• pain is accompanied by fever, clouding of consciousness, general weakness, speech impairment or other factors.

HEADACHE PREVENTION

To minimize the occurrence of headaches, you need to:

• Get enough sleep. Constant lack of sleep leads to stress and weakening of the immune system. To get enough sleep and rest, a person needs to sleep an average of eight hours. For a normal rest during sleep, it is better to go to bed at the same time. Compliance with the regime helps to establish the internal biological clock, and therefore improve the quality of sleep.Also at night, melatonin is produced – the so-called sleep and youth hormone, which has a beneficial effect on health.
• Go in for sports. During sports, the “happiness hormone” – endorphin is produced, which helps to reduce emotional stress and relieve stress. Also, physical activity saturates the body with oxygen. This has a beneficial effect on blood circulation and the general condition of the body.
• Drink less coffee. With the constant abuse of coffee, the nervous system is overloaded, which is constantly working in a stressful mode.Too much caffeine can lead to a number of serious consequences, such as insomnia, irritability, decreased mental activity, and headaches.
• Drink more water. Water removes toxins from the body and improves metabolism. Scientists estimate that you need to drink an average of two liters of water a day. If you are not used to drinking such an amount, you should not force yourself. It is better to drink a little more every day, gradually accustoming the body to the desired rate.
• Less worry. Try to devote more time to your family, friends and your favorite business. Even a simple walk in the fresh air will help relieve stress and therefore prevent headaches.
• Monitor the power supply. Eat foods that do not contain hazardous additives. When a large number of low-quality products are consumed, intoxication of the body may occur, and as a result, a headache will occur. Add more fruits and vegetables to your diet. They contain many vitamins and minerals, which will help strengthen the immune system and protect against diseases that can lead to migraines.

Attention! All the presented methods of dealing with headache do not guarantee one hundred percent results. Before using them, consult a specialist. Be healthy!

How to get rid of pain in the head, from cervical osteochondrosis | medical rehabilitation center “EXARTA”

What is better for a headache?

As soon as a headache begins, most people look into the medicine cabinet for what to take for a headache. At the same time, few people are puzzled by the reasons – they simply remove the symptom that interferes with them and calm down.But in vain. Everything will be repeated or complicated.

The most common causes of headache are serious illness that goes unnoticed, or muscle tension caused by a sedentary lifestyle, improper posture during sleep and wakefulness, excessive exertion or lack thereof.

These days, the main causes of constant headaches are the misuse of smartphones, tablets, computers. This affects the cervical vertebrae, disrupts the blood supply to the head, pains in the head that last for several days, hours, weeks.

While the patient is taking the best pills for headache, he develops osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. What does the patient do to quickly get rid of this ailment? He also drinks pills for cervical osteochondrosis or uses ointments. But the cause of the problem does not disappear anywhere: the muscles continue to work incorrectly, the pains return.

That is why the correct relief of headaches in most cases is possible only after experienced doctors carry out the therapy of cervical osteochondrosis, including a set of exercises for muscles and stretching the vertebrae, massage to improve blood supply.

How can I safely treat severe head pain during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the load on the spine changes greatly. This is what causes frequent headaches in women, especially in late pregnancy.

And during this period, expectant mothers are especially cautious and avoid taking even effective pills for headache recommended by doctors. And it is right. The best way to get rid of a headache without harm to the baby is a head massage and exercises for the spine, many of which are similar to cervical osteochondrosis.

How to treat osteochondrosis of the cervical spine and headaches?

The causes of headaches are accurately shown by functional diagnostics carried out by specialists from the Exart headache center. With the help of a survey, examination, motor reactions and additional examination methods, all problem areas and ways of working them out are revealed. Correctly selected massage techniques for cervical collar osteochondrosis quickly relieve pain, but only with the help of appropriate physical exercises in each case can this result be consolidated.

Moreover, it is optimal if exercise for osteochondrosis of the cervical spine becomes a useful habit even after the end of the course of treatment in our center. At the final stage of treatment, we teach patients how to carry out such exercises at home.

In addition, we can give a massage for a child’s torticollis or posture disorders and many other things, which also cause pain in the head.

Do you want to get rid of a headache or undergo treatment of cervical osteochondrosis quickly? Call:

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