About all

Ways to relieve sinus headaches: Sphenoid Sinus Anatomy, Diagram & Location

Biofeedback: Types, Purpose, and Risks

Biofeedback: Types, Purpose, and Risks

  • Health Conditions
    • Featured
      • Breast Cancer
      • IBD
      • Migraine
      • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
      • Rheumatoid Arthritis
      • Type 2 Diabetes
    • Articles
      • Acid Reflux
      • ADHD
      • Allergies
      • Alzheimer’s & Dementia
      • Bipolar Disorder
      • Cancer
      • Crohn’s Disease
      • Chronic Pain
      • Cold & Flu
      • COPD
      • Depression
      • Fibromyalgia
      • Heart Disease
      • High Cholesterol
      • HIV
      • Hypertension
      • IPF
      • Osteoarthritis
      • Psoriasis
      • Skin Disorders and Care
      • STDs
  • Discover
    • Wellness Topics
      • Nutrition
      • Fitness
      • Skin Care
      • Sexual Health
      • Women’s Health
      • Mental Well-Being
      • Sleep
    • Product Reviews
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Sleep
      • Mental Health
      • Nutrition
      • At-Home Testing
      • CBD
      • Men’s Health
    • Original Series
      • Fresh Food Fast
      • Diagnosis Diaries
      • You’re Not Alone
      • Present Tense
    • Video Series
      • Youth in Focus
      • Healthy Harvest
      • No More Silence
      • Future of Health
  • Plan
    • Health Challenges
      • Mindful Eating
      • Sugar Savvy
      • Move Your Body
      • Gut Health
      • Mood Foods
      • Align Your Spine
    • Find Care
      • Primary Care
      • Mental Health
      • OB-GYN
      • Dermatologists
      • Neurologists
      • Cardiologists
      • Orthopedists
    • Lifestyle Quizzes
      • Weight Management
      • Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
      • Are You a Workaholic?
      • How Well Do You Sleep?
    • Tools & Resources
      • Health News
      • Find a Diet
      • Find Healthy Snacks
      • Drugs A-Z
      • Health A-Z
  • Connect
      • Breast Cancer
      • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
      • Psoriatic Arthritis
      • Migraine
      • Multiple Sclerosis
      • Psoriasis

Medically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, PhD, PsyD — By Brian Krans — Updated on March 31, 2017

What Is Biofeedback?

Biofeedback is a type of therapy that uses sensors attached to your body to measure key body functions. Biofeedback is intended to help you learn more about how your body works. This information may help you to develop better control over certain body functions and address health concerns.

Biofeedback is built on the concept of “mind over matter.” The idea is that, with proper techniques, you can change your health by being mindful of how your body responds to stressors and other stimuli.

Chronic stress can have dramatic effects on your body. This may include elevated blood pressure, increased body temperature, and disruption of brain function. By promoting a more effective mental and physical response to stress, biofeedback aims to help you control body processes like your heart rate and blood pressure. These body processes were once thought to be completely involuntary.

The three most common methods of biofeedback include:

  • electromyography (EMG) biofeedback: measures muscle tension as it changes over time
  • thermal or temperature biofeedback: measures body temperature changes over time
  • electroencephalography: measures brain wave activity over time

Other types of biofeedback include:

  • galvanic skin response training: measures the amount of sweat on your body over time
  • heart variability biofeedback: measures your pulse and heart rate

Biofeedback is aimed at combating stress through relaxation techniques. You consciously manipulate your breathing, heart rate, and other usually “involuntary” functions to override your body’s response to stressful situations.

Biofeedback appears to be most effective for conditions that are heavily influenced by stress. Some examples include: learning disorders, eating disorders, bedwetting, and muscles spasms.

Biofeedback may be used to treat numerous physical and mental health issues, including:

  • asthma
  • incontinence
  • constipation
  • irritable bowel syndrome
  • side effects from chemotherapy
  • high blood pressure
  • Raynaud’s disease
  • chronic pain
  • stress or anxiety

Some people prefer biofeedback as a form of treatment for these conditions because it’s noninvasive and doesn’t rely on medications. Other people pair biofeedback with more traditional treatment options to improve overall wellness.

Be sure to check your biofeedback therapist’s credentials before starting therapy. You may want to ask about their training and whether or not they accept your health insurance. State laws regulating biofeedback practitioners vary. Check your own state’s regulations before visiting a therapist.

No further preparation is required for a biofeedback session.

Electrical sensors that connect to a monitor will be hooked up to your body. The sensors measure one or more signs of stress. This can include heart rate, muscle tension, or body temperature. The measurements provide feedback about how your body responds to different stimuli.

A biofeedback therapist can teach you how to lower your heart rate through breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, and mental exercises. You can measure the results of these techniques and exercises on the monitor. This encourages more positive reactions and relaxation.

A typical biofeedback session lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. The number of sessions needed to resolve an issue will vary depending on a number of factors, including how quickly you learn to control your physical responses.

There are also commercial biofeedback devices available on the open market that are meant for home use. There are devices with handheld monitors and others that connect to your computer. However, you should be careful of scams. Be sure to check with your primary care provider before purchasing one of these devices. Not all manufacturers are reputable.

The Mayo Clinic reports that biofeedback is generally safe. There have been no negative side effects reported. However, biofeedback may not be for everyone. You should consult your primary care provider before starting this or any other type of complementary therapy.

Your therapist will help determine which biofeedback technique is right for you, based on your health issues. The success of biofeedback therapy depends on several factors, such as how often you use the techniques you learn during therapy in your daily life.

Last medically reviewed on January 11, 2016

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

  • Biofeedback. (n.d.)
    my.clevelandclinic.org/services/wellness/integrative-medicine/treatments-services/biofeedback
  • Mayo Clinic Staff. (2013, January 26). Biofeedback: Using your mind to improve your health: Risks
    mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/biofeedback/basics/risks/prc-20020004
  • Mayo Clinic Staff. (2013, January 26). Biofeedback: Using your mind to improve your health: Why it’s done
    mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/biofeedback/basics/why-its-done/prc-20020004
  • Relaxation techniques for health: What you need to know. (2014, December)
    nccih.nih.gov/health/stress/relaxation.htm

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, PhD, PsyD — By Brian Krans — Updated on March 31, 2017

Read this next

  • Dementia Linked to Traumatic Brain Injuries, Even Years Later

    A TBI can increase the risk of dementia by 80 percent, even 15 years after an accident.

    READ MORE

  • High Blood Pressure May Be Linked to Alzheimer’s Disease

    Researchers say hypertension in older adults can cause tangles and plaques to form in the brain. Both are common markers of Alzheimer’s disease.

    READ MORE

  • Simple Two-drug Combination Can Prevent a Second Stroke

    Two anti-clotting drugs are better than one when it comes to preventing major strokes.

    READ MORE

  • Microvascular Ischemic Disease

    Medically reviewed by Gerhard Whitworth, R.N.

    Understand microvascular ischemic disease and its common symptoms.

    READ MORE

  • About Wintergreen Essential Oil

    Medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, FAANP

    Wintergreen oil (or oil of wintergreen) has a lot in common with the active ingredient in aspirin. Read up about what it’s used for, tips to find…

    READ MORE

  • Healing Crystals: What They Can and Can’t Do

    Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R. N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT

    Crystals are a popular alternative medicine tool, but can they really help you heal?

    READ MORE

  • Healing Crystals 101: Everything You Need to Know

    Medically reviewed by Kerry Boyle D.Ac., M.S., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., CYT

    Despite a lack of scientific research, some people swear by the power of crystals. Learn more about their purported healing qualities.

    READ MORE

  • What Is Cupping Therapy?

    Medically reviewed by Kerry Boyle D.Ac., M.S., L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., CYT

    Have you ever wondered what cupping therapy is? Keep reading to learn about this alternative therapy, including what to expect during treatment.

    READ MORE

  • How to Attract the Positive Without Pushing Away Negative Feelings

    The law of attraction is meant to manifest your desires, but can it be an unhealthy way to ignore the negative?

    READ MORE

  • Grounding Mats: Your Questions Answered

    Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph. D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI

    To get the lowdown on grounding mats, we asked two medical professionals to share what they think.

    READ MORE

10 home remedies and treatments

A person can treat sinus pressure with medication, but home remedies such as steam inhalation and saline irrigation may also help ease symptoms and speed recovery.

A type of skin called mucous membrane lines the sinuses. This membrane protects the body by producing mucus, which catches dirt and other particles that might otherwise cause illness.

The lining of the sinuses can swell if a person has an allergic reaction or infection. Swelling may lead to a feeling of pressure around the nose, cheeks, and above the eyes. These areas of the face may feel painful or tender.

Infections or allergies can lead to uncomfortable pressure in the sinuses. Clearing the nose can help to ease this symptom.

Below are natural alternatives to over-the-counter (OTC) medications for sinus pressure.

Steroid nasal sprays can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. Many of these sprays are available OTC.

Decongestant and saline nasal sprays may also help people treat sinus pressure at home.

People should consult a doctor if they have preexisting conditions such as high blood pressure to help them choose a nasal spray that will not interact with their medications or condition.

Learn more about the types of nasal decongestants here.

Dry air can irritate the mucous membrane and dry out the sinuses. While drying out excess mucus might seem like a good solution, the arid air will worsen the irritation and sinus pressure.

Humidifiers and vaporizers add water into the air. A person breathes in the humid air, and it helps moisturize the delicate skin lining the sinuses. Moist air can also help to thin out and loosen mucus.

Both machines release moisture, but they do so a bit differently: A humidifier blows out cool, moist vapor, while a vaporizer heats the water to release a warm mist.

Learn more about the differences between humidifiers and vaporizers here.

The increased humidity is especially helpful in bedrooms and any place a person spends a great amount of time. Sleeping in a room while one of these devices is running can help relieve sinus pressure and may reduce congestion upon waking up.

Share on Pinterest86159668

Some people use neti pots to rinse out the nose, which helps keep the mucous membrane moist and relieve pressure in the sinuses. The device looks like a small pot with a long spout.

A person can use a neti pot by:

  • washing the hands
  • filling the pot with sterile water
  • leaning directly over a sink
  • tilting the head sideways
  • inserting the spout gently into the highest nostril
  • breathing through the mouth
  • pouring water into the nostril

Water will run from one nostril to the other, which should flush out pollen, bacteria, and other debris. A person should repeat this process on both nostrils.

It is essential for people to use sterile or distilled water, which can be bought at a drugstore, not tap water. Alternately, a person can boil water and allow it to cool.

Learn more about neti pots here.

Rinsing nasal passages with a saline solution can help reduce irritation and inflammation in the nose.

A saline solution can easily be made at home using sterile water, salt, and baking soda. Combine the following ingredients:

  • one-quarter pint of clean water
  • one-quarter teaspoon (tsp) of salt
  • one-quarter tsp of baking soda

People can sniff this into the nose from cupped palms, one nostril at a time. A person can also use a syringe to squirt a solution into their nostrils.

Studies show that saline irrigation can help to reduce symptoms of hayfever.

Using steam to open the passages in the nose can help relieve sinus pressure.

Steam inhalation is straightforward for people to do at home. Boil water, pour it into a large bowl, and lean over, so the face is directly above the water. Cover the head with a towel, and breathe through the nose.

People should not breathe directly over a steaming kettle or boiling pot of water. The steam can burn skin.

Baths and showers

A person can skip the boiling water and turn on the shower instead. Hot showers and baths create steam that can quickly fill a room. This steam helps moisturize the air, and when a person breathes it in, it moistens their sinus passages.

The extra moisture can ease irritation in the sinuses and thin out mucus so clearing the sinuses is easier.

Acupressure involves applying pressure to specific points in the body to relieve pain or symptoms of illness. Scientists are not clear on whether acupressure works, but it may ease some symptoms.

Many people claim that acupressure can treat colds, types of flu, and sinus problems. A person may perform acupressure at home, but can also go to a practitioner.

Learn about different pressure points for sinus pain relief here.

Any time a person is unwell, it is essential to keep the body hydrated. Proper hydration can help to keep the mucus membranes of the nasal passages moist and working correctly.

While all liquids can help a person stay hydrated, The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend people prioritize consuming plain water over flavored beverages and juices.

Learn more about the benefits of hydration here.

Applying heat to the sinus area can also help to relieve pressure. One of the easiest ways to do this is using a warm washcloth.

Run a clean washcloth under reasonably hot water and wring it out. Fold it, and lay it across the bridge of the nose and cheeks for a few minutes.

Many people claim that essential oils can help relieve symptoms of sinus congestion. Essential oils are natural oils that people extract from plants.

Studies show that some essential oils can have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, most support for the use of essential oils in treating sinus pressure is anecdotal, and research in the field is lacking.

Popular oils for the treatment of sinus inflammation include peppermint and eucalyptus oils. People can use these essential oils by adding small drops to a steam bath or a diffuser.

Learn more about essential oils for sinus congestion here.

Sleep can help ease sinus pressure for several reasons. First, rest is important to help a body heal and speed up recovery. Secondly, the body produces more white blood cells during sleep. These cells are essential for eliminating any viruses or bacteria that could be causing irritated sinuses and sinus pressure.

A person with sinus pressure may find sleep more comfortable if they prop themselves up. They can use extra pillows behind the head or upper back to achieve this.

Sleeping while propped up may help mucus move through the nasal passages and sinuses, and prevents a stuffy nose from disrupting sleep. On the other hand, lying flat may lead to additional pressure and mucus buildup.

Learn more about methods of sleeping with nasal congestion here.

These home remedies for sinus pressure can help reduce symptoms and make breathing easier in time. But it is important that a person does not set back recovery by doing certain things. These include:

  • Breathing dry air: Dry air, like that of saunas, may irritate the sinuses and prolong recovery.
  • Breathing in chemicals: Cleaning agents like bleach and chlorine can irritate sinuses on a typical day. They may aggravate sinuses even more if they’re inflamed already.
  • Blowing too hard: If a person’s sinus passages feel stopped up, they can try to remove some of the mucus by blowing their nose. Individuals need to be careful not to blow too hard. Too much pressure can be painful and actually increase pressure.
  • Flying while sick: It is not uncommon for people to experience increased sinus pressure after flying. Most sinus pressure from flying will ease in a matter of hours after landing. But if a person with an upper respiratory infection or sinus infection flies, they may experience even more sinus pressure from the flight because their sinuses are already irritated. Rearranging the flight until the infection clears is recommended.

If caused by an infection, such as sinusitis, the pressure should go away within a few weeks.

If an allergy is the cause, sinus pressure may come and go. Taking antihistamines before coming into contact with an allergen, such as grass or pet fur, can prevent sinus pressure.

The natural remedies above can help to relieve sinus pressure and related discomfort. They can also help to speed recovery.

However, home remedies may not always work. If an infection has not gone away following home treatment, people should consult a doctor.

How to get rid of a headache without pills

Headache is a very common type of pain that can cause real suffering and disruption of the normal course of daily life.

Contents

  • About the types of headaches
  • Terminals

Usually, a person who has a headache tries to get rid of it with the help of over-the-counter drugs that provide analgesic effect.

However, there are many natural headache treatments that can help many cases of this debilitating headache without the use of pain medication.

1. Water

Drinking enough water stops dehydration, which can be the root cause of many headaches.

Water can help prevent or reduce headaches.

According to the authors of a study published in the journal Antioxidants , even mild dehydration can change people’s thinking and functioning, making them feel worse, often accompanied by headaches.

At the same time, the authors of another study published in the Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice note that drinking water does not reduce the duration of a headache, but subjectively improves well-being.

Carry a water bottle with you and drink it throughout the day to prevent dehydration. You can also improve your body’s hydration by eating foods that are high in fluid content, such as fresh fruit, yogurt, or soups.

2. Cold compress

A cold compress can be one of the easiest and most affordable headache solutions that many people have at hand. Applying an ice pack or other cold object to the head or neck helps constrict the blood vessels and reduce inflammation in that area. This may temporarily relieve a headache.

A study published in the Journal of Medicine & Public Health found that applying ice packs to the neck for 30 minutes significantly reduced pain in people with migraines.

3. Warm compress

In some other cases, such as tension headaches where the muscles are too tight, a warm compress can help relax those muscles and provide relief.

The easiest way to make this compress is to moisten a towel with warm (but not too hot) water. The same effect provides a warm shower or bath with warm water.

4. Eliminate any pressure on the head

In some cases, the cause of headaches may be the pressure of some objects or too tight scalp. This may be a too tight “tail” or a tuft of hair, a hat or a headband that a person has worn for many hours on end.

5. Reducing exposure to bright light

Some people who have frequent headaches become very sensitive to light. Their symptoms can be aggravated by bright lighting in their home, office, or even bright light from a smartphone.

The headache often resolves on its own if the patient lies quietly on a bed or sofa in a darkened room for some time.

6. Herbal tea as a natural pain reliever

Herbal tea can be a useful way to increase the water content of the diet, as well as provide other beneficial natural compounds to the body.

For example, ginger tea can help with migraines. One 2013 study found that ginger powder had similar effects on migraine patients to popular pain medications. Plain tea with warm water and ginger powder can help relieve headache symptoms.

Other potentially soothing teas include peppermint, chamomile, and lavender.

7. Exercise

Moderate-intensity exercise helps keep the body healthy and improves circulation, which can reduce the chance of headaches.

One 2018 review published in the journal Children notes that lack of physical activity can negatively affect the incidence of headaches in adolescents. Conversely, regular moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling for 30 minutes a day, can help reduce headache attacks.

8. Food intolerance detection

Food intolerance can sometimes be the underlying cause of symptoms such as headaches.

If the headache occurs after eating, it may be helpful for the patient to keep a food diary in which he records everything he ate every day. This will help you identify foods that may cause headaches and avoid them in the future.

9.

Sleep

Lack of sleep can also cause headaches.

Headaches can be caused by a variety of problems, with sleep problems being among the most common.

For some people, headaches can be caused by too much sleep, too little sleep, or unhealthy sleep, because these disorders prevent the body and brain from resting properly.

As noted in one article in the journal Sleep , adults should try to get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep each night.

10. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a part of traditional Chinese medicine where a doctor inserts small needles into the surface of the skin. The purpose of this treatment is not to cause pain, but to stimulate the body’s own energy.

A review in Children mentions some studies that have shown acupuncture to be effective in preventing or reducing the frequency of migraine and tension-type headaches.

11. Acupressure

Massaging specific areas of the body can help relieve tension in the head and relieve headaches. Many do it instinctively, such as rubbing the back of their head or pinching the top of their nose when they are stressed.

Perhaps these instinctive actions make sense. Many believe that massaging the temples, jaw, or neck can help relieve tension and reduce tension headaches that come from excessive stress.

Some other areas you can try massaging include the area between the eyebrows and the two points at the base of the eyebrows on either side of the bridge of the nose. These points are able to maintain tension in the eyes or head, and massaging them can help relieve excessive tension.

Massage of the neck at the base of the skull can also help relieve tension.

12. Relaxation Techniques

Again, a review in Children notes that relaxation training can help many people with headache symptoms and can also help reduce stress and anxiety.

Relaxation techniques include practices such as deep belly breathing, guided meditation, and active focus on muscle relaxation.

13. Caffeine

Drinking caffeinated drinks, such as coffee, tea, or soda, such as cola, can sometimes help relieve headaches.

Some headache pain relievers contain caffeine because this compound improves their effectiveness.

As noted in a review published in the Journal of Headache and Pain , caffeine itself may help reduce the symptoms of tension headaches or migraines. Caffeine usually relaxes the blood vessels, which can support circulation and relieve tension.

However, caffeine has the opposite effect in some people, causing headaches. It is not difficult to determine exactly how caffeinated drinks affect a particular person – you need to pay attention to your well-being after drinking a cup of natural coffee or a glass of cola.

14. Essential oils

Aromatherapy with some essential oils can help relieve headache symptoms. According to one study published in 2018 in the journal Children , inhaling lavender essential oil vapors for 15 minutes reduced the severity of headaches.

Another study published in the journal Pain found that peppermint oil was more effective in reducing tension headaches than placebo.

15. Magnesium

A 2015 review published in Nutrients suggests that people who regularly experience cluster headaches or migraines may have too low magnesium levels.

In these cases, magnesium as a dietary supplement may help reduce or prevent headaches.

16. B vitamins

Some B vitamins may help protect against or reduce headaches. One 2015 review published in Biomed Research International notes that vitamins, including folate and vitamin B 6 12

17. Vitamin E

Vitamin E can also play a role in relieving headaches. A review of vitamin supplements published in 2015 notes that vitamin E can relieve headache and menstrual migraine symptoms with a low risk of side effects.

This information may be especially valuable for women who experience migraines during their menstrual cycle, as vitamin E may help balance hormones to prevent symptoms of such a headache.

At the same time, the authors of this review note that more research is needed before drawing any definitive conclusions about the benefits of vitamin E in headache.

18. Alcohol restriction

Some people may react badly to alcohol. Headache is one of the most common hangover side effects. This may be because alcohol acts as a diuretic, causing the body to excrete more water in the urine.

Such a headache does not only occur with alcoholism. For some people, even with light or moderate alcohol consumption, ethyl alcohol and its metabolic products can lead to mild symptoms of dehydration or worsen headaches.

About the types of headaches

There are many different types of headaches, and one remedy may be more suitable than another to relieve a certain type of pain. Some common types of headaches are:

  • Tension headaches. The most common headache that often occurs after a person has undergone stress and his muscles have become overly tense. The pain appears inside the head and in its upper part, and the person often feels as if his head is squeezed by a tight rubber band.
  • Sinus headache. This type includes pain behind the eyes and nose and a general feeling of heaviness in the head. A similar headache occurs with a hangover.
  • Cluster headache. May appear during the day, causing acute pain that occurs at one point of the head.
  • Migraines. A migraine usually causes throbbing pain behind the eyes, which then grows and throbs all over the head. The person may also become very sensitive to light, physical activity, or movement.

Conclusions

There are several natural and home remedies that can help you get rid of a headache without the use of medication. Depending on the type of headache, some may be more effective than others.

It should be noted that some types of headaches may not respond at all to these methods, and in such cases, over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, paracetamol, or naproxen may provide relief.

It is very important not to ignore a persistent headache, as such pain may signal the presence of a serious illness.

Seek help immediately if:

  • headache following a head injury;
  • headache accompanied by dizziness, speech problems, confusion or other neurological symptoms;
  • severe headache that came on suddenly;
  • headache that gets worse even after taking painkillers.

Electronic sources:

https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/5-ways-to-get-rid-of-headache

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323992

Back to Articles Find a Doctor

5 Types of Headaches and How to Manage Them

Content

  • 1 5 Types of Headaches and How to Manage Them
    • 1.1 Headache: Causes and Solutions
    • 1.2 Tension: how to cope?
    • 1.3 Migraine: how to relieve symptoms?
    • 1.4 Sinusitis: how to get rid of the pain?
    • 1.5 Q&A:
        • 1. 5.0.1 What kind of sports activity can help get rid of a tension headache?
        • 1.5.0.2 Which self-massage methods can help with migraine headaches?
        • 1.5.0.3 Can bad lighting help cause headaches?
        • 1.5.0.4 Can a snack help with a headache?
        • 1.5.0.5 What should I do if my headache does not go away after taking pain medication?
    • 1.6 Hormonal disorders: causes and treatment
    • 1.7 Related videos:

Learn about the five types of headaches and learn how to manage them. From migraines to neck strains, we’ll cover pain relief and suggested treatments.

Headache is a common condition faced by almost everyone. It can be caused by various factors such as stress, migraine, sinusitis, and other problems. Different types of headaches require different approaches to treatment and management. Therefore, it is important to understand the causes and symptoms of headaches so that you know how to relieve or even get rid of them.

The first type of headache is tension. This is the most common type of headache and is caused by prolonged exertion, stress, or fatigue. Symptoms include compressive, mild pain that often affects both sides of the head. To cope with tension, it is recommended to take a sitting or lying position, relax and take deep breaths. A head or neck massage may also be helpful.

The second type of headache is migraine. A migraine is a more intense form of headache that can last for hours or even days. It is usually accompanied by photosensitivity, nausea and vomiting. Migraine treatment includes taking safe and effective migraine medications, as well as being in a dark and quiet room. Many people with migraine also find relief with aromatherapy or applying a cold compress to the temples.

The third type of headache is sinusitis. This type of headache is usually caused by inflammation of the sinuses and is accompanied by nasal congestion, pain in the forehead and cheekbones, and fever. Treatment for sinusitis includes taking anti-inflammatory drugs, applying a warm compress to the face, and frequently rinsing the nose with saline.

The fourth type of headache is cluster. This is a rare but very intense type of headache that usually occurs around the eye or temple and lasts from 15 minutes to 3 hours. Cluster headache may be accompanied by a runny nose, sweating, and redness of the eye. Treatment for cluster headache involves taking medications to relieve symptoms and reduce the frequency of attacks.

The fifth type of headache is hormonal. In women, headaches may be related to hormonal changes such as menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. Symptoms include throbbing and unilateral pain. To cope with a hormonal headache, women are often advised to take hormonal drugs, rest, and avoid stress.

Headache: Causes and Solutions

Headache is a common condition that can have a variety of causes and requires appropriate management. It is important to pay attention to the symptoms and find out the cause of the headache in order to find the best solution.

One of the most common causes of headaches is tension in the muscles of the neck and shoulder girdle. It can be caused by poor posture, stress, or sitting in the wrong position for long periods of time. To solve this problem, it is recommended to improve your posture, regularly stretch the muscles of the neck and shoulders, as well as pause in computer work and perform special exercises.

Migraine is another common cause of headaches. It is often accompanied by severe throbbing pains, nausea and photophobia. To reduce migraine symptoms, it is recommended that you take medication prescribed by your doctor and avoid factors that can trigger a migraine attack, such as stress, sleep changes, and certain foods.

Headaches can also be caused by eye strain from prolonged reading, working on a computer or watching a smartphone screen. The cause of such pain may be fatigue of the eye muscles or problems with vision. In this case, it is recommended that you take regular breaks from your computer using the 20-20-20 method (looking at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes). You should also check your eyesight and see a doctor if necessary.

For some people, headaches can be caused by changes in barometric pressure, weather conditions, or allergic reactions. To relieve symptoms, it is recommended to take allergy medications or analgesics prescribed by a doctor.

Finally, a headache can be a symptom of a serious medical condition such as hypertension, an infection, or a brain tumor. If the headache becomes frequent or is accompanied by other disturbing symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor for professional advice and diagnosis.

In general, to solve the problem of headache, it is necessary to find out its cause and take appropriate measures. In most cases, this can be achieved through lifestyle changes, medication, or specific exercises. However, in case of severe symptoms or suspected illness, it is important to see a doctor for professional help and treatment.

Tension: how to cope?

Tension headache is one of the most common types of headaches. It can be caused by tension and contraction of the muscles of the head, neck, and shoulder girdle. Tension and stress can be the main causes of this type of headache.

Here are some ways to help manage tension headaches:

  1. Relax: Pause and find ways to relax, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Regular relaxation practices can reduce tension and reduce the frequency of tension headaches.
  2. Apply heat: Apply a warm compress to the head or neck area to relieve tense muscles. You can also take a warm bath or apply a hot washcloth to the back of your head to relieve a headache.
  3. Avoid strenuous exercise: Avoid monotonous, prolonged stress on the muscles of the head and neck, such as sitting at a computer or driving for a long time. Regular breaks and neck and shoulder exercises can help prevent tension headaches.
  4. Improve your posture: Good posture can help prevent tension headaches. Watch your posture, sit up straight and do exercises regularly to strengthen the muscles of your back and neck.
  5. Get enough sleep: lack of sleep can be one of the causes of tension headaches. Try to get enough sleep every night and create conditions for quality rest.

If these methods do not help relieve tension headache, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. He may suggest other treatments, such as medication or physical therapy, to help you manage this type of headache.

Migraine: how to relieve the symptoms?

Migraine is a chronic neurological disease characterized by recurrent attacks of acute headaches. During a migraine attack, the patient may experience throbbing pain in one side of the head, nausea, vomiting, photophobia, and phonophobia.

There are several ways to relieve migraine symptoms and cope with an attack. One of them is taking medications, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-migraine drugs. It is recommended that you consult with your doctor to obtain the most effective and safe drug suitable for your particular case.

It is also important to create comfortable conditions for migraine: switch to a quiet and dark room, try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. Some patients benefit from head or neck massage, as well as applying a cold compress to the temples or a warm compress to the neck.

Following a healthy lifestyle can also help fight migraines. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and moderation in drinking and smoking can reduce the risk of migraine attacks. In addition, you should avoid excess stress and take care of a healthy diet, including regular meals.

Migraine treatment options and symptom relief may vary depending on the individual patient. With severe or frequent migraine attacks, it is important to consult a doctor for professional advice and prescribe the necessary treatment.

Sinusitis: how to get rid of pain?

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that can cause severe headache. Acute sinusitis is often associated with colds, while chronic sinusitis can be caused by allergies or other factors.

If you have sinusitis and your headache is bothering you, there are several ways you can help get rid of the pain:

  1. Determine the cause: Find and treat the cause of your sinusitis, if possible. If allergies are the cause, avoid allergens and use antihistamines. If an infection is the cause, see your doctor for antibiotics or antivirals.
  2. Apply heat: Apply warm compression to sinus area to reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Heat can also help soften the lining and reduce pain.
  3. Use saline solutions: Rinse your nose with saline solutions to clear mucus from the sinuses and moisten the mucous membranes. Saline solutions are available from pharmacies, or you can make your own by mixing 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of sugar in 1 liter of warm water.
  4. Avoid irritants: Avoid smoke, allergens and other substances that can irritate the mucous membranes and aggravate the symptoms of sinusitis.
  5. Use decongestants: Decongestants, such as drops or sprays based on oxymetazoline or xylometazoline, can help mucosal vasoconstriction and reduce swelling in the nose. However, they should only be used as directed by a physician and for no longer than the expiration date indicated on the package.

If, despite the measures taken, the pain does not go away or gets worse, seek medical advice without fail. The doctor will be able to determine the exact cause and prescribe an effective treatment.

Q&A:

What sports activities can help relieve tension headaches?

Yoga and Pilates are among the sports activities that help to cope with tension headaches. These practices help to relax the muscles of the neck, shoulders and back, which reduces tension and improves blood circulation in the head. Regular exercise also contributes to the general strengthening of the body and improves mood, which can reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.

What self-massage methods can help with migraine headaches?

For migraine headaches, self-massage of points on the face and head, which are associated with symptom relief, can be tried. For example, light circular massage of the temples can help relieve tension and reduce the intensity of pain. You can also massage points on the forehead and back of the head using light pressure. However, before using self-massage, it is recommended to consult a doctor to make sure that there are no contraindications and that the massage is performed correctly.

Can bad lighting help cause headaches?

Yes, poor lighting can cause headaches. Insufficient or uneven lighting can strain the eyes, causing fatigue and tension in the eye muscles, which can lead to headaches. To cope with this problem, it is recommended to provide bright and even lighting in the room, work in suitable light conditions and take regular breaks to rest the eyes.

Can a snack help with a headache?

Snacking on something can help with a headache, especially if hunger is the cause. Fasting periods can cause blood sugar levels to drop, which can lead to headaches. Therefore, it is recommended to snack on light, low-calorie foods that contain sugars or proteins, such as fruits or nuts. It is also important to drink enough water to avoid dehydration, which can also be a cause of headaches.

What should I do if my headache does not go away after taking pain medication?

If the headache persists after taking pain medication, it is recommended to consult a doctor for advice and further treatment. Perhaps the cause of the pain is another disease or more specialized treatment is needed. The doctor may prescribe additional studies to find out the cause of the pain and choose the most effective treatment. It is not recommended to take a larger dose of the drug without consulting a doctor, as this may be dangerous to health.

Hormonal disorders: causes and treatment

Hormonal disorders are one of the most common health problems that can affect the functioning of the body. They can be caused by various factors, including genetic predisposition, age-related changes, stress, poor diet and lifestyle.

Hormonal disorders present with a variety of symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, irregular hot flashes, weight loss or gain, skin deterioration, sleep and mood disturbances, digestive problems, and more.

One of the ways to treat hormonal disorders is the use of hormone therapy, which can be prescribed by a doctor after conducting the necessary research and identifying the cause of the hormone imbalance. It is also important to follow a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, proper nutrition and adequate rest. Additional treatments, such as physiotherapy or surgery, may be applied if necessary.

Diseases associated with hormonal disorders can have serious health consequences and may lead to the development of other diseases.