Headaches can be a real pain, quite literally. Whether it’s a dull ache or a sharp throbbing feeling, headaches are one of the most common ailments people experience. But it’s not just the physical pain that’s difficult to deal with.

Headaches can often lead to dizziness, nausea, and can even affect your vision. So, how do you tame this throbbing monster? Let’s find out.

Can’t miss symptoms

Headaches can range from mild to severe and can be caused due to a variety of reasons, including stress, lack of sleep, sinus infections, and migraines.

However, if you experience any of the following symptoms along with a headache, make sure to seek medical attention immediately:.

• Severe pain that doesn’t go away
• Dizziness
• Numbness or tingling on one side of the body
• Loss of balance and coordination
• Fever and stiffness of the neck
• Slurred speech or confusion
• Changes in vision

Causes of Headaches

There are a variety of reasons why headaches occur. Identifying the root cause of the headaches can help in finding the right treatment. Here are some common causes of headaches:.

Muscle Tension

One of the most frequent causes of headaches is muscle tension, which can occur due to stress or anxiety. Tension headaches can result from muscle contractions in the head, neck, and shoulder region, leading to a dull, aching pain in the head.

Sinus Headaches

Sinus headaches are caused by inflammation in the sinuses. Symptoms often include a dull throbbing pain in the forehead or cheeks, facial pressure and congestion, and a runny nose.

If you suspect that you’re suffering from a sinus headache, it’s essential to determine the underlying cause of your sinusitis to find the root of the problem.

Migraines

Migraines are severe headaches that cause intense pain on one or both sides of the head. They may also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.

Triggers can include food and environmental factors, and migraines may be caused by imbalances in brain chemicals and genetics.

Managing Headaches

Thankfully, there are plenty of natural and medical remedies to manage headaches. Here are a few that you can try:.

Meditation & Relaxation Techniques

Meditation and other relaxation techniques can help you reduce stress and anxiety, which will assist in preventing tension headaches.

Related Article Migraine: Know the Cause and Cure

Get into a quiet and comfortable place around the house and focus on deep, restful breathing for at least ten minutes several times each day.

Over the counter Pain relievers

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen can offer quick relief for mild to moderate headaches. Make sure to take these medications according to the instructions on the label.

Overuse or dependence on such medications may lead to Rebound headaches if not taken as recommended.

Ice Packs & Heating Pads

Applying ice packs or heating pads to the painful area can help reduce the pain associated with headaches. Apply a cold pack to numb the area and reduce inflammation or use a heating pad to relax tense muscles, decreasing spasms that trigger headaches.

Try using it on your neck and shoulders, as they’re often the most vulnerable areas.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that’s becoming more prevalent worldwide to help alleviate chronic pain and tension headaches.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into the skin to help stimulate specific nerves and muscles, leading to reduced pain throughout the body.

Avoiding Triggers

Identifying and avoiding triggers can help prevent headaches. Certain foods, such as processed and cured meat products, caffeine, or excessive salt, can trigger headaches in some individuals.

Alcohol and tobacco products are additional triggers that you should avoid. Environmental factors, including sunlight, bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells, can also cause headaches.

Conclusion

Though headaches may seem to be a common occurrence, they’re not normal, and you don’t have to suffer through them. Identifying the cause of the headaches and finding a way to manage them is essential to maintaining a better quality of life.

Managing headaches slowly requires commitment and experiment with various remedial techniques to identify the best for you.