8 Ways to Get Rid of a Headache Without Medication

Every one of us has experienced a headache at least once in our life. Most people choose to pop over-the-counter pain killers to knock out the headaches. However, be wary of popping ibuprofen and Advils like candy to steer clear of the adverse effects of too much medication. The good news is that there are ways to get that sweet relief without medicine. Here are some of them:

Use a cold pack

A simple headache solution that won’t have you leaving your home is using a cold compress. Kill the pound on your head using a cold pack. You can wrap ice cubes in a towel or use a bag of frozen vegetables on your forehead. You could also apply the cold pack on your neck to reduce the inflammation that causes the headache. Keep the compress for about 15 minutes to manage headache pain. 

Use a warm compress

Warm compresses and heating pads work perfectly for tension headaches. Place a heating pad at the back of your head to relax the muscles in those regions and offer relief. If you do not have a heating pad, a heated towel will work just as fine. Alternatively, have a tepid bath or shower. 

Ease any pressure on the head

Sometimes, your headache may stem from physical pressure on the head. Remove anything that puts too much pressure on your head. It could be a hat, headband, a tight ponytail, or swimming goggles. 

Dim bright lights

Bright and flickering lights are a common trigger for headaches. Cover the windows with blackout curtains or dim the lights if you have migraine-type headaches. If outdoors, wear sunglasses. If you are prone to migraine headaches, consider adding anti-glare screens to your computer.

Massage

Massage your temples, neck, and forehead to ease tensions headaches. Use rotating motions to relax the tense muscles that are causing the headaches. You could also acupressure, acupuncture, and other natural remedies for headaches. You will be surprised how this works like magic.

Hydrate

Dehydration is a huge culprit for the majority of headaches. When dehydrated, you lack sufficient fluids in your body. That, in turn, leads to a reduced blood volume, reducing the amount of oxygenated blood reaching the brain. Decreased oxygen and tightness causes headaches. Drink enough water to prevent headaches and minimize the severity of current ones. Carry a water bottle with you and keep sipping it as you go on with your day. You could also incorporate foods high in liquids to boost hydration further. 

Try relaxation techniques

Finding ways to calm down and chill during a headache helps ease the pain and discomfort. Try stretches, yoga, or meditation when you experience a headache. 

Drink herbal tea

 

Herbal teas host various natural compounds that are great for our bodies. Brew some ginger tea to help with migraines. You could also try peppermint, lavender or chamomile tea. 

Bottom line

The remedies above can ease your headaches without needing to visit a doctor. That said, you need to seek urgent medical attention if the headache comes after a head injury, if it comes along with speech issues and dizziness or if it gets worse even after all the interventions.