Headache is a common health problem that can affect anyone. There are lots of different types that have their own cluster of symptoms, culprits, and require different treatments. Knowing the type of headache you have will help you find the most appropriate treatment. But not every headache requires medical treatment. Using natural remedies can be helpful. Keep reading to find out how to get quick headache relief.
1. Understanding your triggers
When it comes to headaches, especially migraines, it’s essential to understand what’s causing your symptoms. Knowing your triggers will help you lower the frequency of your headaches. Try keeping a diary and note the date, time, and circumstances surrounding your headache.
You can share it with your doctor so that they will be able to help you more effectively. Use it to inform your daily habits, like avoiding certain food that may provoke headaches, keeping strict meal times, or learning that you have to go to bed and wake up at the same time daily.
2. Ginger tea
Ginger is especially helpful for migraine sufferers. According to a clinical trial in the journal Phytotherapy Research in 2014, ginger powder is as effective as prescription migraine meds. Just make a tea by pouring three cups of water over two tablespoons of freshly grated ginger. Steep four to five minutes, then strain through a small sieve into a teacup.
3. Yoga
According to a small study of migraine patients, people who did yoga in addition to taking conventional migraine treatments reported more relief than those who only took medication. The study authors think that any physical activity would probably have benefits, however, yoga is one of the most realistic activity-based natural remedies for headaches since the slow movements are less likely to trigger migraines.
4. Ice pack
To relieve cluster headache or migraines, it’s best to use ice. Cold temperatures constrict the blood vessels and lower blood flow. Try placing a cool towel or ice pack on your forehead or on the back of your neck.
5. Coffee
There’s a reason that certain OTC migraine-specific drugs contain caffeine. This substance can help other pain meds work more effectively. Plus, it might alter your mood to change up your perception of pain.
A cup of coffee alone can also help alleviate a headache. But it should be done only twice a week. Otherwise, your body will build up a tolerance.
6. Water
Dehydration can worsen your headache. According to a study on 102 people dealing with frequent headaches, those who started drinking an extra 1.5 liters of water a day experienced less severe headaches, though staying hydrated didn’t affect the frequency of their headaches.
7. Breathing techniques
If you know your headache is the result of intense stress, breathing techniques can be one of the best natural remedies. You don’t even need any equipment. Find a quiet space to sit or lie down, breathe in for five seconds, then exhale for another five seconds. Repeat as necessary, and pay special attention to how your body relaxes as your breathing gets slower and more rhythmic.
8. Foot soak
Hydrotherapy might suppress pain signals and bring relief. According to a small study in 2016 in the Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice, people with migraines who soaked their feet and arms in a hot water bath and took NSAIDs had fewer disabling headaches compared to a medication-only group over the course of the six-week study span. To help alleviate headaches, soak your feet in a small tub filled with hot water for headache relief. After 20 minutes, hotfoot it to the nearest towel and dry off.
