Tips to Combat a Headache

Headaches happen. We’ve all experienced and survived them, but they aren’t pleasant at all. They can be dull and pass quickly, or for the unfortunate few headaches can be chronic and debilitating.

The good news is there are several simple things you can do to ease the pain without a trip to your local healthcare provider. There are many home remedies that you can use for effective headache & pain relief. These methods can also be combined with OTC medication to help combat a headache.

Try these tips below and you’ll be feeling better in no time!

Home Remedies to Combat a Headache

· Use a cold pack on your forehead for 15 minutes.
· Use a heating pad or hot compress on your forehead for 15 minutes.
· Ease pressure on your scalp or head by loosening your ponytail or removing any hats or headbands.
· Dim the lights in your room.
· Try not to chew hard or tough food, stick with soft food or drinks.
· Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
· Drink a caffeinated beverage like coffee, tea, or soda.
· Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, stretching, or yoga.
· Get a massage that focused on your head, neck, and shoulders to reduce pain.
· Eat or drink some fresh ginger by adding it to your food or hot water for tea.

OTC Medication to Combat a Headache

Your local pharmacy shelves are stocked with a wide variety of headache pain relief tablets for all kinds of headaches. For the most effective headache treatment with the least risk, follow the directions on the medication labels and follow these guidelines:
· Choose liquid pain relievers over pills. Your body will absorb it faster.

· Take painkillers as soon as you feel the onset of a headache. You’ll probably beat it with a smaller dose than if you wait until it’s a full-blown headache.

· If your headache makes you nauseous, ask your GP what will prevent this.

· If you are prone to rebound headaches, ask your GP what to take to avoid them.