• The most effective ways to alleviate headaches are to drink lots of water and eating healthy meals, and experimenting with relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, and then taking medications such as Tylenol.

  • Headaches can result from various factors, including stress, diet and lifestyle as well as underlying medical issues. Identifying the root of the headache may be crucial for treating it.

  • The article was reviewed medically by Medhat Mikhael MD specialist in pain management as well as medical director for the non-operative non-operative program within the Spine Health Center at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center.
  • Visit Insider’s homepage to read more stories.

A headache is among the most frequent and annoying kinds of pain. To alleviate the pain, it’s important to determine what’s causing it.

There are two major kinds of headaches. The first headache is a distinct symptom that occurs in conjunction with other medical issue. While the second headache is an effect of another health issue , such as sinus infections as well as the presence of high blood pressure.

Secondary headaches can be treated by treating the medical issue. However, there are a variety of simple ways to treat headaches that are primary. Here’s how.

How do you get rid of headaches

“When it concerns primary headaches which have no reason, determining your triggers for headaches and avoiding them is your best defense” advises Vernon Williams, MD, director of the Center for Sports Neurology and Pain Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute.

The triggers for headaches could be specific aspects of your life — such as eating habits, stress levels or your sleeping habitswhich can trigger the pain of a migraine. Here are the most effective ways to remove the triggers that cause headaches:

  • Hydrate. If you think dehydration may be the reason behind the head pain, be sure that you’re drinking enough fluids every day. Experts suggest dividing your weight in two parts and for a person who weighs 150 pounds, it is recommended to consume 75 fluid ounces a every day. “As your body gets dehydrated blood vessels in your brain are dilated to help conserve the water in your body,” says Carrie Lam, MD, a physician. Beware of alcohol. Congeners are the chemical compounds found in alcohol drinks, may cause headaches.
  • Take healthy, balanced meals that are balanced. If you’re struggling with your eating habits, such as eating infrequently or skipping meals and eating out, you may be prone to headaches caused by fluctuations of blood sugar. People who are susceptible to headaches should start by taking three meals that are balanced per every day, which include a nutritious source of protein like fish, milk or meat. You may be able recognize food sensitivities by keeping track of your feelings following meals or snacks, and determining the elements of your food habits could be the cause of your headaches.
  • Deep breathing. Stress can cause muscle tension to increase and dilate blood vessels and create headaches and tension headaches are usually caused by stress. Tension headaches may cause headaches on the forehead, the neck, and scalp. If stress is the reason behind the headache, deep breathing techniques can assist in relaxing. It’s as easy as slowing your breathingsuch as counting to five when you inhale , and then counting to five times as you exhale can ease stress and alleviate headaches. Try yoga or meditation. It may be beneficial too.
  • Medication. “Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as acetaminophen and caffeine are prescription medications that are often found to be effective in stopping migraine headache right in its tracks,” says Williams. Acetaminophen is similar to Tylenol is a headache relief medication that works because it blocks pain signaling sent to the brain. Anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen or Advil can stop your body from making chemical which cause inflammation. These medicines are often effective to relieve tension headaches and migraines, too.

When is the best time to visit an ophthalmologist for headaches

“Most headaches are episodic, which means they occur infrequently and do not require medical attention,” says Williams. The treatment options mentioned above could provide relief or the headache might disappear on its own.

However those who experience more intense or chronic headaches should be evaluated by a medical professional. If you experience headaches 3 or more times during just a few months, Williams states, it’s best to consult your primary medical doctor.

Additionally, headaches that follow physical injury or other symptoms might require urgent medical treatment.

“If the headache is triggered by an injury on the head and it may be followed by sudden, intense discomfort, a stiff neck or neck, convulsions, fever anxiety, loss of consciousness or is associated with extreme discomfort in the ear or in the eye an immediate medical examination is essential,” says Williams.

In the end, you might need to visit your doctor in the event that you suffer from headaches along with blurred vision and the appearance of double vision or facial numbness or any other cognitive issues. Even if the symptoms go away, it’s vital to have your eyes checked.