7 Natural Tension Headache Remedies
I am a headache sufferer. A long time headache sufferer. For me, it began with puberty and never left and I’m sure I’m not the only woman who can say that. I also, unfortunately, getmigraines. The key to keeping migranes at bay is to not tension and sinus headaches grow into crippling head pain.
Over the years, I’ve developed tricks to keep myself headache-free or to bring about fast relief when I feel a tension headache coming on. Whenever possible, I try to do sonaturally.
Unlike some folks, my tension headache pain and overall health is such that I haven’t had to rely on prescription and/or over the counter pain relievers. I think that’s because I’ve made it a point to pay attention to my body, and have made a commitment to finding natural solutions before turning to medications.
I’m not a doctor or a medical professional, so these tips are just my own personal observations and strategies. I share them with other chronic tension headache sufferers in the hopes that I might help ease someone’s discomfort. However, if you do get regular tension headaches and have never been evaluated by a healthcare professional, you should do so right away.
7 Natural Tension Headache Remedies
1. Drink Water
Tension headaches can be caused by minor dehydration. And if you have a headache, try drinking an ice cold glass of water down quickly to see if it helps (this is somtimes successful for me).
2.Use Migrastick
Migrastick is a headache miracle. It’s made of essential oils of peppermint and lavender that one rubs onto the temples, forehead and/or the base of the neck. The massage and aromatherapy effects work to eliminate all but my most stubborn tension headache symptoms.
3. Heating Pad
Use a Bed Buddy or other warm and soothing heating pad around the shoulders and the base of the neck–tightness in the neck and shoulders is the cause for many a tension headache of mine. You can make by filling a tube sock with rice and popping it in the microwave.
4. Facial Massage and Compress
If you can stand it, while suffering from a sinus headache try gentle massage accompanied with a warm compress. You will be surprised how often this can alleviate a sinus headache.
5. Eye and Body Breaks
I spend a lot of time sitting at the computer–both sitting and staring and staring at a screen can contribute to a tension headache. I take frequent eye and stretch breaks to alleviate muscle strain and fatigue. Also, visit the optometrist regularly. Frequent computer use can cause even those with the best vision to need glasses.
6. Eat Well
Garbage in, garbage out. Eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in processed sugary, fatty and salty foods and nutrient poor foods can help control headaches.
7. Exercise
While suffering from a tension headache the last thing one feels like is doing is exercising, but light to moderate exercise can actually stop a headache in its tracks. I prefer a brisk stroll to try to get rid of my headaches. Regular exercise can also increase cardiovascular and circulatory health and help reduce the likelihood of chronic headaches.
None of these tips are full-proof (except for maybe the Mygrastatic) and I know they seem simple, but they are great starting places for your to become empowered in fighting your headaches and to keep you from turning to that bottle of pain reliever as much!
Related on Organic Authority:
Natural Remedies to Prevent and Treat Headaches
Treat and Prevent Migraines Naturally
Image: venue G
