Tension headaches: These are the most common, occurring less than 15 days a month. Often triggered by stress, eye strain, or insomnia, they can cause head pain that lasts around 30 minutes. [2] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Migraines: These can last from hours to days. They usually cause throbbing pain and sensitivity to light and sound. If you’re having a headache that lasts anywhere between 4 to 72 hours, that’s a migraine. Sinus headaches: These are a common symptom of sinus infections, colds, and seasonal allergies and cause pressure and pain around the nose, eyes, and forehead. [3] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Rebound headaches: These are caused by the frequent use of pain relievers or anti-migraine drugs. Cluster headaches: These are rare and tend to occur in cycles. They’re classifiable by intense pain around one eye or side of the head.
Carry a filled reusable water bottle with you wherever you go so you’re reminded to drink more water. Try to drink room temperature water if you’re prone to migraines, as extremely cold or iced water could trigger symptoms. [7] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Use the cold compress for around 25 minutes, then take a break and see how you feel. [9] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Try using a cooling eye mask to block out light and soothe pressure.
If bathing isn’t an option, try pressing a heating pad or warm compress to your head.
If turning off or dimming the lights isn’t an option, close your eyes or place your head under a blanket or pillow to make your own dark, quiet space. Try using an eye mask to keep things nice and dark no matter what.
Make sure to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night, as sleep deprivation can trigger headaches. Limit your screen time before bed so you can wind down before closing your eyes. Try to stick to a regular sleep routine, going to bed and waking up at the same time each day (even on weekends). [15] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Try yoga poses like a forward fold, downward facing dog, or head-to-knee for quick relief. [17] X Research source Count your breaths and close your eyes when you feel a headache coming on, rather than focusing on the pounding in your head. [18] X Research source Do deep breathing exercises while you meditate to help calm your mind and nervous system. [19] X Research source
Try to take these medications at the first sign of a headache for faster relief. [21] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Limit your medication use to 2 days a week, as too much could cause more headaches.
Always purchase essential oils from well-known and reputable companies to ensure you get the best quality item. Dilute lavender oil by mixing it with a carrier oil, like coconut or almond oil, in a 1:1 ratio. This will help prevent burns and rashes, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Try drinking a tea with ginger in it to ease the nausea and vomiting that may come with more severe headaches. [25] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Be careful when it comes to drinking caffeine, as having too much can cause migraines and possibly a caffeine addiction (which has its own type of headache withdrawals). Doctors recommend having within 150 to 200 mg of caffeine a day, so avoid this method if you’ve already hit your daily allowance. [26] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Opt for food with a high water content while and after you drink, like watermelon, celery, and cucumber, to help you stay hydrated.
Magnesium deficiency is the most common amongst those who have Type 2 Diabetes, Crohn’s Disease, or are taking medications. Talk to your doctor before adding a magnesium supplement to your daily routine, as they’ll be able to tell you the exact dosage you and your body need.
Aged cheese (blue cheese, brie, cheddar, mozzarella) Peanuts Pizza or other tomato-based products Chocolate Potato chips Smoked or dried fish Pickled foods Canned soups Cultured dairy products (sour cream, yogurt) Artificial sweeteners
Who says you have to go to the gym and lift weights to exercise? Move your body in whatever way that feels good! Maybe that’s dancing, walking, running, or swimming.
On your hand: Massage the soft part of your hand in between your index finger and thumb. Apply firm, circular pressure for 4 to 5 seconds. [34] X Research source Behind your ear: Locate the mastoid bone just behind your ear, and follow the natural groove in your neck to where the muscles attach to the skull. Apply firm pressure for 4 to 5 seconds while breathing deeply. [35] X Research source On your shoulder: Locate the point on your shoulder between your neck and the edge of your shoulder. Using your opposite hand (right hand on the left shoulder, left hand on the right shoulder), pinch the shoulder muscle between your fingers and thumb. Use your index finger to apply firm downward pressure for 4 to 5 seconds. [36] X Research source
Massages alone won’t cure a headache—it’s simply a preventative step—so make sure you try other methods as well.
Talk to your chiropractor about your headaches and symptoms, as they can pinpoint if and where the problem is in your back or neck. As an alternative, try osteopathic manipulative treatment, which is similar to chiropractic therapy but focuses on improving the body’s overall system. [41] X Research source
