There’s nothing worse than being taken out by a headache just when your day is going along without stress. Or waking up with a headache that plagues you all day long. No matter when or why you get a headache, you just want it go away fast, right? If you have chronic or recurring headaches, talk to your doctor to rule out a health issue. In the meantime, try one of these easy things to dull the ache and help you feel better in no time.
Snapshot Survey
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Please subscribe for your personalized newsletter:
1. Use Peppermint Oil in Your Temples
The use of oils is gaining in popularity and there’s a good reason why. Oils can help treat a myriad of issues, helping you feel better without having to take medication. If you’re looking for a natural way to cure a headache, you may want to give peppermint oil a try. It is said to help calm spasms in your scalp that lead to the headache. The scent is also good for relaxing you, which can ease the tension that leads to a headache.
2. Try a Migraine Medication
Even if you don’t have a true migraine, these combo medications can pack an extra punch when it comes to knocking out a headache. Most contain a combination of acetaminophen and caffeine. The first eases the pressure in your head and the caffeine can help stop the pain of a headache at the same time. This double duty product should definitely be discussed with a doctor before use. I will tell you this – I have tried them and they are way better than either one is on its own.
Frequently asked questions
3. Consider an Acupressure Treatment
Acupressure involves applying pressure to certain spots on your body. The idea is that your systems are interconnected so stimulating one can help ease pain in another. When your head is pounding, try pressing on the space between your thumb and first finger. Research shows that doing so for 20 to 30 seconds can help boost endorphin levels, which can ease pain in no time.
4. Lay down with Your Eyes Closed
If you can manage a few minutes of rest, it can do wonders to ease your head pain. Lay down in a darkened room and close your eyes. Clear your brain and take some deep breaths. Even if you can only get away for 5 minutes, you might be surprised at how well this works for getting rid of (or at least easing) a headache.
5. Ice Your Forehead
Just like you ice the pain of a muscle pull or strain elsewhere on your body, you can get similar benefits from icing your forehead. The ice works by shrinking your blood vessels, improving blood flow and making a headache feel less painful. Some people say that icing can get rid of a headache altogether. Use a cold compress or a package of frozen veggies wrapped in a towel and leave it in place for a few minutes at a time.
Related Videos about
6. Indulge in a Hot Shower
Sometimes a hot shower is all it takes to relax your muscles, helping ease head pain. At the same time, warm water stimulates healthy blood flow, which can ease tension and pain in your head. While you stand in the shower, gently massage your head and neck to boost the benefits.
7. Have Your Magnesium Checked
A magnesium deficiency can lead to headaches. If you get them all the time, it pays to have your doctor check your magnesium. If you need to boost your intake, you could take a daily supplement to cover any gaps. A better idea is to get more through your diet. Good sources of magnesium include dark leafy greens, nuts and seeds, avocado, yogurt, bananas and dark chocolate.
8. Get Some Fresh Air and Get Moving
When a headache strikes, the last thing you want to do is move around. Naturally, you'd prefer to lie down in a dark room and wish it away. But by going for a walk you are loosening your tense muscles that cause headaches. Additionally, exercise releases endorphins (happy hormones) that'll help you feel better and rid you of that uncomfortable feeling.
9. Avoid Msg
MSG (monosodium glutamate) is an additive that some food contains in order to enhance flavour. But it has also been known to cause headaches and migraines. Make sure to read the ingredients in the food that you eat if you're prone to pesky headaches.
10. Eat Less Chocolate
Sad news! Chocolate, as divine as it is, has the ability to give you a headache. This is because of the caffeine content. Enjoy it in moderation but if you're getting headaches frequently, try to give it a miss for a while and see it if helps.
Do you get headaches? What do you blame them on? Which of these things are going to try next time your head hurts?
Feedback Junction
Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge