A headache is a pain that is felt in the head, scalp, or neck. There are many different types of headaches, including tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches. Headaches can be caused by a variety of factors, including tension, sinus issues, eyestrain, and dehydration. Most headaches can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication and self-care measures, such as getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and avoiding known triggers and other ways as stated below.
Drink water
If our body becomes dehydrated, this can cause a headache. In summer, but really throughout the year, always keep a bottle of water nearby. And if you exercise a lot, consume an isotonic drink to replace the mineral salts that you have sweated out.
The benefits of Himalayan salt
Admittedly, its taste is not very pleasant, but if your headache is caused by a lack of mineral salts, this particular type of salt mixed with water is an effective remedy.
Darkness and silence
If you have a headache, lie down in a room with no light and no noise, and breathe deeply. Stay there for 15 minutes and you will notice an improvement.
Massage the sore area
If you massage the area where the tension is located, you will often feel some relief. The massage should be gentle and can be smoothened with a few drops of massage oil.
Paracetamol or ibuprofen
The quick and easy alternative is to take medication. We have to add that it is generally not recommended to take paracetamol or ibuprofen for a long time without the guidance of a doctor. Also, be sure to read about the differences between paracetamol and ibuprofen.
Avoid sitting it out
If you have a headache, don’t wait it out. Whichever method you choose, you should apply it right away as it is quite rare for headaches to go away on their own.
Coffee against migraine
You may find this strange, since caffeine tends to cause dehydration, but coffee can help against a headache. If you take coffee when you first have symptoms, it can relieve the pain. The drink acts as a vasoconstrictor (narrowing the blood vessels) and stimulates the absorption of pain relievers. You shouldn’t drink too much of it, though.
Sunglasses
It seems so obvious, but many people forget! The sun causes headaches, especially if you are exposed to it for a long time. In order to avoid discomfort, you simply have to wear sunglasses. A cap or a hat are also helpful, as well as a parasol.
Magnesium
Although the effect is not dramatic, taking magnesium may help to diminish a headache. In some cases, the doctor may even recommend supplements of magnesium. Otherwise, you can reach for dried fruits, especially almonds, because they contain a large amount of magnesium.
The magic of herbal teas
Herbal teas are allies against headaches. Especially infusions of chamomile, lemon balm, bay leaf, or ginkgo Biloba will help soothe the pain.
Relax!
Stress is one of the biggest causes of migraines. The solution is to relax, disconnect from all social media, and avoid tension.
Lavender scent
Steam baths and inhaling lavender for 15 seconds help reduce the headache. The scent of lavender is highly recommended in times of stress.
The freshness of mint
Mint is another scent that helps reduce headaches, especially if it comes from neck strain. You can rub the mint on your forehead or temples, as the cool scent works as a calming agent.
Rosemary oil
If the headache causes you to have insomnia, rosemary is highly recommended. Massage a few drops of essential oil behind the ears on the base of the skull, and you’ll see that the effect is almost immediate.
Walk at a good pace
Walking at a steady pace every day is beneficial in a lot of ways. One of them is that it helps reduce headaches because walking facilitates the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain.
Apply pressure on four points of the head
Press punctually on the temples, nose, base of the skull, and between the eyebrows. Do this for 10 seconds on each spot to reduce the headache.
Cold shower
Not everyone can stand cold showers, but if you can, this is an effective remedy against a headache. Really, try it!
If you are experiencing severe or persistent headaches, you should see a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.
Image by Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke from Pixabay