Why would I need home remedies for headaches?
Many individuals who suffer from frequent headaches and migraines turn to home remedies for headaches to relieve the discomfort and prevent them from occurring regularly. Some people may not always have access to prescribed medication or may not feel comfortable taking medication for their frequent headaches and migraines. Thus, we have compiled a few home remedies and lifestyle changes that can help heal headaches and keep them from happening all the time.
What is the difference between headaches and migraines?
Sometimes, it may be difficult to evaluate if you suffer from headaches or migraines. There are various forms of headaches, the most typical of which are tension headaches which may be caused due to stress, anxiety and muscle strain, etc. Cluster headaches are painful and occur in groups, or “clusters,” whereas migraines are a moderate-to-severe form of headache that can be more intense than regular headaches. Migraines can be triggered by emotional anxiety, alcohol, contraceptives, menopause, hormonal changes, etc. They also may be accompanied by nausea, temporary vision loss, sensitivity to light/sound, and so on. [1]
Lifestyle changes and natural home remedies for headaches and migraines
Although many medications are formulated to alleviate headaches, you can try the following natural remedies and lifestyle changes that have proven to relieve headache and migraine symptoms:
Limit your alcohol consumption
While drinking alcohol may not induce a headache in most individuals, studies have shown that it can provoke migraines in roughly one-third of those who suffer from recurrent headaches. Alcohol has also been linked to tension and cluster headaches in many people. Furthermore, alcohol serves as a diuretic, causing the body to lose fluid and electrolytes through urination. Dehydration can result from fluid loss, which can induce or worsen headaches. As well as alcohol there are other parts of your diet that can trigger headaches and migraines.
Feverfew
Feverfew is a blooming herb that resembles daisies. It’s a traditional migraine treatment. It has yet to be thoroughly researched, although there is some evidence that it may be slightly more efficient than a placebo in treating migraine.
B-Complex Vitamins
B vitamins are a class of water-soluble micronutrients that serve various functions in the body. They, for example, aid in the formation of neurotransmitters and the conversion of food into energy. B-complex pills contain all eight B vitamins and are a safe and cost-effective approach to naturally alleviating headaches. You can find supplements online from e-Surgery, as well as in most local pharmacies.
Yoga
According to a 2015 study, yoga may reduce the frequency, duration, and intensity of migraine attacks. It is supposed to reduce anxiety, relieve tension in migraine-prone areas, and promote vascular health, this can especially help in relieving headaches. Another study discovered that individuals who practiced yoga for three months had a noticeable reduction in the severity of headaches, and other symptoms compared to those who did not.
Get at least 8 hours of sleep every night
Sleep deprivation can be harmful to your health in various ways and can cause headaches in some people. One study, for example, compared headache frequency and intensity in people who slept fewer than six hours per night to those who slept longer. It was discovered that those who slept less had more frequent and severe headaches. On the other hand, getting too much sleep has been shown to trigger headaches, so getting the appropriate amount of rest is critical for individuals looking for natural headache prevention. [2] If you’re looking to sleep better, there are some over-the-counter sleeping pills that can help, as well as simple lifestyle changes such as reducing screen time and caffeine before bed. Did you know that there are even some house plants that can help you sleep better?
Should I Try Home Remedies for migraines and headaches?
As mentioned above, there is a lot you may do at home to treat headaches. These include getting enough sleep, doing moderate exercise, and consuming healthy food. It would help if you kept a trigger journal to avoid situations that induce migraines. Before taking nutritional supplements, please consult your doctor. Migraines, unfortunately, do not have a cure. The best that you can do is monitor your condition, understand which type of migraines you have, and seek professional advice. [3]
Over the counter and prescription treatments for headaches
Lifestyle changes and home remedies can help relieve headaches, but they aren’t always enough. You can treat headaches with over-the-counter pain relievers such as 500mg Paracetamol Tablets, Naproxen, and Dispersible Aspirin Tablets. However, if you suffer from migraines, you may require treatment such as:
1. Maxalt Melt
3. Propranolol Tablets (For Migraine Prophylaxis)
Before starting any new medication, always consult your physician to evaluate any possible medication interactions.
Takeaway
Life can get challenging if you suffer from chronic headaches or migraines. You may end up missing classes or be late for work and be unable to participate or enjoy day-to-day activities. However, the remedies and medications mentioned above may provide some relief. It would be best to consult with a doctor to understand your symptoms better and obtain prescription medications.
Sources
- Migraine vs. Headache: Telling the Difference Between Them (healthline.com)
- 18 Remedies to Get Rid of Headaches Naturally (healthline.com)
- ᐅ Home Remedies to Treat Migraines: Do They Work? | e-Surgery
Further Reading
1. How to get rid of a headache without medication | Medical News Today
2. Natural Home Remedies for Headaches and Migraine | Everyday Health
3. 13 Ways to Get Rid of a Headache Without Medicine | Good Housekeeping
