Tips for Getting Rid of Your Headache
Headaches can interrupt daily life, especially when caused by debilitating migraines. Fortunately, you can reduce the frequency and severity of head pain by making smarter lifestyle choices. Before you pop another pill, learn how to get rid of a headache and keep it from coming back.
Tension Headaches
The most common kind of headache among adults, tension headaches cause constant band-like, tightness, pain or pressure that can range from mild to moderate. They may be episodic, appearing less than twice a month, or chronic, and can range in duration from 30 minutes to several days. There is no one cause for tension headaches; however, most result from one of the following:
- Poor sleep
- Stress
- Depression
- Poor posture
- Anxiety
- Overexertion
- Hunger
- Low iron levels
An over-the-counter pain reliever can provide relief; however, prevention is usually the best medicine. You can reduce your chances of tension headaches by employing the following day-to-day strategies:
- Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration
- Do not skip meals
- Prioritize sleep
- Limit caffeine
- Quit smoking
- Focus on proper posture
- Try meditation and other relaxation techniques
Coping with Migraines
Unlike tension headaches, migraines can cause a number of debilitating symptoms, including visual disturbances, nausea and severe pain that can last hours of even days. While the exact cause of migraines is unknown, genetic factors seem to play a significant role. Most people are also able to identify triggers, such as poor sleep, foods, smells or alcoholic beverages.
If you suffer from migraines, you can reduce the frequency and severity of attacks by getting more sleep and avoiding potential triggers. This is best accomplished by keeping a food journal, which will help you identify potential causes of a migraine attack. There are also a number of effective medications available to help treat migraine pain and reduce attack frequency.
When to See a Doctor
In some instances, a headache can be a symptom of a stroke, encephalitis, meningitis or some other serious condition. Seek emergency attention if your headache is accompanied with fainting, high fever, confusion, balance problems, vision difficulties, stiff neck, speech problems or nausea. You should also see a doctor if your headaches begin to occur more often than usual or become more severe.
