Finding Headache Relief Without Medication

As we near the end of June and National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, we’d like to share some tips for anyone experiencing frequent or chronic headaches.

Headaches are extremely common and can occur for a variety of reasons. Common treatments include over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription medications, but these don’t always get to the root of the problem and may come with side effects of their own.

Here are a few lifestyle habits that can help reduce headache pain and improve your overall wellbeing:

1. Hot / Cold Compresses – Placing an ice pack or warm compress on the area of pain or behind the neck can help relieve your headache pain.

2. Aromatherapy – Peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender oil have been reported to reduce the incidence of headaches by triggering a healing response in the brain.

3. Meditation / Breathing Exercises – Relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help soothe tension-related headaches by focusing your mind and easing your muscles.

4. A Regular Sleep Schedule – A lack of sleep or major changes to your sleep schedule can trigger chronic headaches.

5. Hydration – Dehydration is a major cause of headaches. Try to drink a lot of water and avoid beverages that dehydrate you, such as alcohol.