We all get headaches from time to time. Whether after a stressful day, or a lack of eating, headaches are a nuisance to all. Although most people take an over the counter pain reliever, some wish to not become dependent on medication to relieve any minor pains we have.
Some of us also take prescribed medication that interacts with most OTC’s. For those looking for relief from headaches without the use of medication, here are a few suggestions for natural remedies that can relieve the most common headaches.
Cluster Headaches
Symptoms: Cluster headaches usually occur several times a day without warning. They are Described as one of the worst human pains, worse than childbearing for women. Pain usually occurs behind the eye. The thing that is unusual about these headaches is that they are not usually triggered by stress or food habits. (from http://www.choosenatural.com/headaches/cluster-hea...)
Relief: There is unfortunately no cure for cluster headaches, but alternative therapies such as chiropractor work might help to relieve the nerve pain thought to be at the root of these headaches. Not changing sleeping habits or taking afternoon naps may help as well.Oxygen therapy also shows promising results for those suffering from cluster headaches.
Tension Headaches
Symptoms: Stress is the main cause of tension headaches.There is usually a dull, tight pain usually felt across the forehead, or around the back and sides of the forehead. There is almost always tenderness around the affected area as well.
Relief: A warm, wet towel placed over the affected area helps to relieve the pain . A scalp massage, relaxation techniques, exercise, or hot or cold compresses can also be beneficial. Acupuncture may also work to relieve the tightness or pressure of the headache.
Migraine
Symptoms: Sometimes mistaken for Sinus headaches. The pain is usually that accompanies a migraine is usually dull, and can range from acute to severe and throbbing. Most people who suffer from migraines are not able to concentrate to the pain, as well as the dizziness that accompanies it. Auras, or flashing light spots, sometimes occur before a migraine starts, which often warns frequent migraine sufferers when one is about to occur.Tingling on the side of the face can also occur before a migraine.
Relief: The most common way to seek relief from a migraine is to enter quiet Room, with a minimal light source.However, that only provides temporary relief for most sufferers. Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, may be helpful in permanently reducing the frequency of migraines. Since stress can be a trigger for migraines, stress relief through relaxation techniques can also be helpful. Food is also considered a migraine trigger, so a diet that is reduced in processed foods can help.
Sinus Headaches
Symptoms: There is usually pressure felt in the sinus areas, including the area around your cheeks, eyes, and forehead. They can sometimes accompany sinusitis, aka a sinus infection, or occur by themselves. A stuffy nose, increased pain lying down or leaning forward, and fatigue are also signs that you're likely suffering a sinus headache.
Relief: Using a humidifier or a warm compress can alleviate the pressure of a sinus headache, mainly because the steam naturally decongests your nose. The use of a nettipot to flush out the sinuses may also be helpful if a sinus infection is the cause. However, be sure to use previously boiled, distilled water along with a saline solution if you decide to irrigate your sinuses with a netti pot.