Six Surprising Remedies for Headaches
There are several different types of headaches, and they have a range of possible causes. Tension headaches are the most common type, but there are also sinus headaches, migraine headaches, cluster headaches, and more.
No matter what type of headache you have, you may be searching for ways to relieve the pain. You probably know some of the common home remedies for dealing with headaches, like dimming the lights or putting a cold pack on your forehead.
But if you’ve tried the classic methods and are still looking for relief, here are some headache remedies that might surprise you.
Insights from Activa Clinics on Natural and Effective Solutions to Alleviate Headache Symptoms
Spit Out Your Chewing Gum
Research has found that chewing gum can cause tension headaches and migraines. That’s because excessive chewing can cause stress to the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. Dysfunction in the TMJ is a known cause of headaches. Therefore, you may want to consider ditching the gum.
Take Off Your Hat
Compression headaches can be caused by pressure on the head and scalp. They can also result from wearing a hat that is too tight, as well as:
- Headbands
- Sports helmets
- Hard hats
- Swim goggles
- Having your hair in a tight ponytail
Try taking off your hat, letting your hair down, or ensuring your headgear fits properly.
Avoid Certain Foods
There are a number of foods that can trigger headaches. They include foods that are high in histamine, such as:
- Aged cheeses
- Beer
- Wine
- Fermented food
- Cured meats
- Smoked fish
In addition, foods that contain nitrates and nitrites can also be a culprit. They include:
- Bacon
- Sausages
- Hot dogs
- Other processed meats
If you’re getting frequent headaches, put some more thought into your diet or consider speaking to a nutritionist.
Get Some Fresh Air
Strong smells can trigger headaches in some people. Perfumes, cleaning products, cigarette smoke, and foods with strong smells are common causes.
Sensitivity to odours is common in people who suffer from migraines. Therefore, If you feel a headache coming on, try getting some fresh air.
Drink More Water
A common cause for tension headaches and migraines is chronic dehydration. Drinking a glass of water can provide headache relief pretty quickly. Studies have shown that drinking some water can sometimes relieve headache symptoms within 30 minutes.
Take Some Ginger
Ginger supplements, ginger root, or even ginger tea can help cure a headache. One study showed that ginger was just as effective as conventional headache medications, with fewer side effects.
Other Remedies
If you’re still looking for more ideas, here’s a list of other headache remedies to try:
- Try yoga or other relaxation techniques
- Get more sleep
- Exercise regularly
- Get some caffeine
- For tension headaches, put a heating pad on the back of the head and neck
- Get a massage
- Visit an acupuncturist