In today’s busy and stressful life, more and more people have experienced a severe or debilitating headache. Using pain medications is a quick way that many choose to relieve headache symptoms. However, this method is not effective completely because it only works for a short period of time. Moreover, if you overuse these medications during weeks, it will lead to rebound headaches.
Here are 7 ways without using drugs that help you to avoid a headache or better manage it if it occurs.
1. Drink plenty of water
One of reasons for having a headache is dehydration. You are advised to consume at least eight glasses of water or other fluids a day to ward off dehydration. When your head begins hurting, you should drink a glass of water to ease the pain. People who often suffer a headache are told to drink an additional 1.5 litres of water a day for 12 weeks.
2. Snack on nuts and seeds
Lack of food can trigger headaches but there are some foods can cause it such as chocolate, red wine, aged cheeses, processed meats and more. So you need watch what you eat to alleviate your headache. You can replace those foods with nuts and seeds that are an excellent source of magnesium. This mineral, which acts as a muscle relaxant, can be found in large amounts in oats, green leafy vegetables, beans, peas, etc.
3. Wear your hair down
Wearing a tight-fitting hat, plait, chignon and Alice band is another reason for headaches because your hair is pull back, straining the connective tissue in the scalp. So the best way to avoid a headache is keeping your hair down instead of sporting a ponytail.
4. Massage your scalp, neck and earlobes
Massage therapy is a nice way to help you relieve tension and improve circulation. It also helps relax the tense muscles and cause them to place less pressure on the nerves and blood vessels. So you should massage your scalp and earlobes by yourself and have someone else massage your neck and back if possible. Make sure you press the areas lightly and use tiny circular movements while you keep massaging.
5. Exercise regularly
Another way to prevent a headache is doing exercise regularly because it helps improve the production of endorphins, the brain’s natural painkillers. Besides, practicing relaxation techniques can be remarkably effective in addressing your headache. Relaxation exercises will manage your pain well. They are easy to learn and implement, too. Meditation and deep breathing are among the most common options to beat a headache. Practicing yoga is another way to keep you refreshed and stress free.
6. Stick to a sleep schedule
Sticking to a sleep schedule can help you avoid pain. Headache sufferers are advised to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Therefore, you should take a nap or sleep the number of hours you need to feel alert and rested. Make sure you have a comfortable pillow, peaceful and quiet environment to get a good night’s sleep.
7. Manage your stress level
Stress is the number one cause of headaches, so it is important to eliminate it to keep your mind, body and spirit relaxed. You can get into an exercise program, go for a walk, read a book or go shopping if that works for you. You can also delegate your work to others to reduce stress and pressure.
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