For some, headaches are a source of chronic pain. For others, they’re a source of occasional annoyance caused by sudden stress, illness, or uncertainty.
No matter what causes them and what they mean, headaches are no fun. Headaches come in all shapes and sizes and treating them depends largely on where you are, what you’re doing, and how severe the pain.
Here are four common and effective natural treatments for a headache.
1. Use a cold compress
One of the most productive ways to treat a minor headache at home is with a cold compress or ice pack. Place it over the area on your head where the pain originates and wait for the pain to stop or at least dull.
This works best if you can lie down in a darkened room with plenty of quiet and no distractions.
2. Take a hot shower
Sometimes all it takes to alleviate the pain from a headache is a nice hot shower. Letting the hot water hit your head where the pain is most prominent can work the muscles and massage the area in a gentle manner that helps to alleviate the pain.
3. Apply pressure to your head
When you can easily tell where the pain is coming from, you can try to alleviate the pain with a slight pressure. To do this, apply two fingers to the area from which the pain is coming.
Rub the area in a firm, circular motion for 15 seconds at a time, or until the pain subsides. Repeat the process until your headache is gone.
4. Relax
The best way to treat any headache naturally is by relaxing. Try to lie down or sit in a quiet room with the windows closed and the lights off. Concentrate on closing your eyes and relaxing. Don’t think about anything stressful, such as your to-do list, work, kids, or issues with family.
Recurring headaches
Most people are fortunate enough to experience headaches only once in a while. If your headaches seem to be recurring, you’ll want to speak with your medical professional regarding the pain. Your innocent headaches could be the result of an underlying issue with your health or stress levels.
Don’t confuse your everyday headache with a migraine. Migraine headaches are far worse and can be utterly debilitating. If you find you can get up, walk around, and function, you are not suffering from a migraine. A simple dose of Tylenol may help to ease the pain if these natural remedies fail to do so.
