Oh My Aching Head! 4 Ways To Alleviate Headache Pain

Headaches are nothing to laugh about. They can be something to cry about though. If your headaches are interfering with your life, it's time to make some changes. Here are four steps you can take to get out of the debilitating headache cycle.

Start a Food Journal

You might not realize this, but the foods and beverages you're consuming could be causing your headaches. To get to the root of the problem, you'll need to identify the actual trigger. The best way to do that is to keep a food journal. Start writing down everything you consume – including main meals, snacks and all beverages.

The next time you get a headache, look at your journal entries for that day and the day before. Be sure to make a notation, so that you can identify your headache days later. Continue with your journal, marking the days you get headaches. By doing this, you'll be able to determine if there are any identifiable triggers – such as eating pizza the day before each of your headaches.

Stay Hydrated

If you're not staying hydrated, you could be increasing your risk of headaches. The human brain is about 73% water. When you become dehydrated, your brain loses moisture, which causes it to shrink – resulting in a dehydration headache. Try to keep a bottle of water with you at all times. This will help you avoid dehydration headaches.

Take Time to Relax

If you suffer from headaches caused by anxiety or depression, take time to relax. Activities such as meditation, yoga, or even a casual walk in the evening can help relieve the tension in your head and neck, which will reduce the occurrence of anxiety-induced headaches. 

Cool Down

If summer temperatures cause you to experience headaches, you'll need to cool down. One way to prevent heat-related headaches is to apply ice to the back of your neck. Place a damp towel in the freezer for about 30 minutes. Wrap the cold towel around your neck and relax. You can also create your own ice packs.

Fill a one-gallon resealable plastic bag with 2 cups of water and 1 cup of rubbing alcohol. Place the plastic bag in the freezer for about an hour, or until the contents are frozen to a soft slush. Place the bag on your neck to alleviate your headache. For best results, make at least two of the ice packs. That way, you can have one in the freezer and one on your neck.

Don't let headaches interfere with your life. Use the tips provided here to get your headaches under control. If your headaches continue to be a problem, be sure to talk to your doctor as soon as possible. To learn more, visit a website like http://www.wildingchiropractic.com.