Relieving headache pain naturally is possible and actually works. In fact, the head is the most common area of pain for most people. Many people take over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication, like aspirin, naproxen (Aleve), acetaminophen (Tylenol and others), and ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) to get relief from pain.
However, most pain medication can cause serious side effects, like jaundice, stomach pain, blurred vision, dizziness, rash, itching, ringing in the ears, and hemorrhages to name a few. Fortunately, there are alternatives in the form of relieving headache pain naturally.
Relieving headache pain naturally
Headaches are classified into three common types. The first type is primary headaches. Primary headaches consist of cluster, migraine, and tension headaches. Secondary headaches are headaches resulting from an underlying illness or injury. Facial pain, cranial neuralgias and other headaches fall into the third classification. Relieving headache pain naturally can work for most types of these conditions.
People generally have tension headaches caused by lack of sleep or stress. Tension headaches are not throbbing headaches. Actually, people experiencing this type of headache feel intense pressure on both sides of their head, as well as pain in their neck and back of head. Relieving headache pain naturally can be achieved and is available to most people who suffer from this ailment. For example, buy some ginger, take an inch of the ginger root, and boil it in some water. Consume this natural remedy like drinking tea. Surprisingly, this home remedy works as fast as an aspirin does.
Another homemade remedy in relieving headache pain naturally is to apply peppermint oil to the hairline. Peppermint oil will relax muscles in the neck and head, as well as create a cooling sensation.
The cause of cluster headaches is unknown. They are more common in men and are seasonal; that is, people are likely to get them in the spring or fall. Additionally, they are the least common type of headache with less than one in 1,000 people affected by them. People experiencing the pain of this type usually feel concentrated stabbing two or three times a day. They may also experience pain for a few weeks or months.
Nonetheless, relieving headache pain naturally can be achieved by placing a small amount of capsaicin cream inside the nostril on the side of the head where pain is experienced. Cayenne pepper is the active ingredient in capsaicin cream. This natural cream helps to block nerve pain signals to the brain and is available at health food stores for around $11.
According to the National Headache Foundation close to 28 million Americans get migraine headaches. The cause is unknown, however, genetic and changes in the brain are suspected. A migraine episode could last four hours and up to three days. Women are three times more apt to get migraines than men are and migraines have a tendency to pass from one generation to the next.
One natural way to relieve migraine pain is using feverfew. Feverfew is a supplement related to the sunflower family. Clinical trials show feverfew to be quite effective in treating migraine headaches. In addition, feverfew alleviates pressure on the nerves, reduces inflammation, and is capable of preventing migraines. It can be bought in the form of capsules for close to $12.
Another natural way to relieve migraine discomfort is acupuncture massage. Acupuncture has been used by the Chinese for centuries and is presently used today. This method of healing entails applying pressure to various parts of the body to give relief from pain. Simply place a finger and press firmly in the depression between the second and first toe for three to five minutes.
Additional ways to relieve headache pain naturally
Additional ways of relieving headache pain naturally consist of taking a walk, warm shower, or bath, or take a nap. Applying an ice pack to the pain area can also be of some benefit. Rubbing the neck and back is a helpful remedy, as well.
An alternative therapy for treating headache pain is meditation and relaxation training. Most headaches occur due to stress. Learning relaxation techniques and ways to meditate can help in preventing and reducing discomfort. Pay attention to breathing and try to breathe steady and slow. Visualize a favorite scenic place; focus and concentrate on the details. Relax.
Finally, lay, rest, or sit quietly in a dimly lit room. With closed eyes, try to release tension in the back, shoulders, and neck.
Seek medical attention if OTC medication or relieving headache pain naturally does not work and the pain gets worse. In addition, consult a healthcare professional if a headache is due to a fall or head injury. Also see a physician if any of the following symptoms are developed: difficulty in speaking, numbness, double vision, weakness, stiff neck, fever, confusion, or seizure.
Most everyone gets headaches and most of the time there’s no need to worry. Nonetheless, if headaches are disrupting work, personal life, or daily activities a family physician or healthcare professional can help in managing the symptoms.
