Headache is an illness characterized by pain in any region of the head, which can last for minutes, a few hours, or several weeks. Despite the fact that headache is one of the most underestimated illnesses, ironically it is also one of the most common ailments. World Health Organization reports that 50% of the adult population suffers from headache at least once a year regardless of age, race and income status. There are many different kinds of headache, but for now, let’s discuss the common types.

Tension Headaches

This kind of headache is the most common type. It involves tension in the muscles of the neck, face and shoulder, resulting in a persistent pressure. Its causes aren’t well understood, but studies suggest this headache is a result of overwork, stress, bad posture, and emotional strain.

Cluster Headache

One of the most painful types of headache; as it is so agonizing, it is sometimes called a “suicide headache”. This is a migraine-like condition more common in men than women. The eye and the forehead is the main focus of pain.

When a cluster headache strikes, it can be accompanied by watering of the eyes and nose, lasting several hours. Cluster headaches occur regularly, even several times daily, then stop for months or even years, but may come back again. Too much alcohol and cigarettes, living in high altitudes, and eating certain foods are some of the causes of this painful headache.

Migraines

A migraine is a severe type of headache that can lastfor hours or even days. Contrary to cluster headaches, migraine is more common in women than men. Visual disturbances, such as an aura, flashing lights, wavy lines or a strange noise or odor, are some of the symptoms when attacks take place.

These symptoms can also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, chills, sweating, numbness and extreme fatigue. The triggers are not yet proven but hormonal changes, stress and irregular sleeping and eating patterns can be the cause.

Alternative Treatments

Pain-relieving pills are one of the most common remedies. However, taking painkillers can have a rebound effect, resulting in medication-overuse headaches. We list some alternative treatments for a longer lasting solution, so we can hopefully say goodbye to headaches forever.

1. Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a process that provides a person with visual information to learn to control his body’s functions. With biofeedback, you’re connected to electrical sensors that help you receive information about your body, such as blood pressure or brainwave activity.

With biofeedback, a person can better control a headache by regulating his/her bloodflow to the brain. Studies suggest positive results from biofeedback, as it reduces the regularity and prevents recurring headaches, both in children and adults.

2. Acupuncture

A traditional Chinese method discovered thousands of years ago, which is also regarded as highly effective in treating headaches to this day. Acupuncture is the insertion of thin needles at strategic points on one’s body. It treats headaches by correcting energy imbalances by increasing your “chi” energy. “Chi” is one’s lifeforce and is the basis of acupuncture.

3. Herbs

Herbal medicine is a major form of treatment for more than 70% of the world’s population, and could be argued to be the best natural way of treating headaches. “Feverfew” is the most popular herbal remedy for prevention. This herb belongs to the daisy family, and has been shown to be effective in clinical trials with only mild side effects.

4. Essential Oils

Another form of herbal medicine is aromatherapy, which uses oils from plants. One can simply smell the oils, or apply on the skin. Lavender, ginger, and peppermint are the most common oils for headaches.

5. Relax And Rest

Our heads are sometimes loaded with a lot of information, causing strain. Take a break from work and from your computer. Staring at a computer for long periods of time and incorrect sitting positions can lead to tension in the neck and shoulders, which can cause headaches. You probably just need to rest and relax. Try these steps for relaxation:

• Take deep breaths

• Think positively

• Stretch

• Take hot baths or a cold shower

• Listen to relaxing music

6. Change Your Lifestyle

If you have frequent migraines and headaches, but you want to have a long-lasting cure, then maybe this is the time to change your lifestyle. Drinking at least four to six glasses of water everyday, getting adequate sleep and regular exercise will ease a lot of headaches.

Also look at what you eat. It’s always best to eat a well-balanced diet and avoid skipping meals, as this may trigger a migraine attack. Avoid certain foods, such as chocolate, citrus fruits, red wine, caffeine and even some dairy products. Some studies suggest that most people who have recurrent migraines tend to be lacking in magnesium. Supplement if necessary, but more importantly, eat foods with high levels of magnesium, such as beans, avocados, broccoli, cashews, and spinach.

Bonus Tip: Easy DIY Remedy

Here is a simple recipe for ginger tea, if you want to treat your headache in a natural way:

Boil three cups of water with two tablespoons of freshly grated ginger for four to five minutes, and then strain. Sip the tea for headache relief.

Do note that headaches can be a symptom or a development of a more serious condition. If your headaches become persistent, constant and severe it is imperative to seek your doctor’s advice.

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