Tension headaches are actually the most common type of headaches. If you’ve ever experienced mild to moderate pain in your head, that feels like tightening around your skull, then you’ve experienced a tension headache. Chances are, you're looking for some ways to cure tension headaches so that you never have to suffer through once again.
There are a number of ways to relieve one, from changing up your environment to seeking a professional. Here are the top ways to cure tension headaches.
Tension headaches are often caused by stress and researchers have found that mind-body therapy techniques, like deep breathing exercises, meditation and relaxation, can help to relieve the pain. Deeply inhale and then exhale slowly. Close your eyes and try to imagine something peaceful. This is one of the best ways to cure tension headaches.
Massaging your head, neck and shoulders can help loosen up these muscles, relieve the pain and prevent future episodes.
Resting in a dark and quiet place, together with meditation or relaxation techniques, can help to reduce the stress that is causing your tension headache. Usually when you are having a headache, it's best to avoid light and sound because they can both make your headache worse.
A warm towel or hot shower can help, as can an ice pack applied to the neck and forehead.
Like a head massage, acupressure can provide relief from a tension headache. Acupressure is simple and involves applying pressure in targeted places with circular movements to reduce the tension and ease your headache.
An acupuncture specialist can pinpoint the areas of the neck and shoulders to release the body’s natural painkiller, called endorphins.
If you are a regular sufferer from tension headaches, it is good to consider exercises that specifically target the source of tension. Rest your forehead onto your flattened palm and see if that makes you feel better.
Of course, there is a lot of medication that can help reduce the pain. See your doctor before choosing one so that you can make the best decision for your health.
If you are a coffee lover, you should consider whether your caffeine intake (or caffeine withdrawal) is influencing the headache you have.