What to do if the headache is unbearable?4 ways to relieve headaches, neurologists tell you!
At the end of a busy workday, Mr. Zhang felt the familiar tightness on his forehead gradually intensify. After hours of staring at a computer screen in the office, the tingling pain seemed to stir up a storm in his mind. It is not uncommon for people like Mr. Zhang to suffer from headaches due to work pressure and fast pace of life, and headaches have become a frequent occurrence in many people's lives. In fact, headaches are one of the most common neurological disorders worldwide, and almost everyone experiences headaches at some point.
However, despite the prevalence of headaches, many people still feel helpless about how to effectively cope with and relieve headaches. Today, we're going to explore some practical headache relief tips that are the result of not only scientific research, but also years of clinical experience. Whether you suffer from occasional or frequent headaches, this article will give you specific steps and advice to help you alleviate your pain and regain control of your life.
Types of headaches and causes: Find out
Common types of headaches
Headache is not a single symptom, but covers many types, mainly including:
Tension-type headache: The most common type of headache that usually feels like there is a tight band pressing on the head.
Migraine: A headache of greater intensity, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light.
Cluster headache: presents as sudden, extreme pain, usually affecting one side of the head, that is short-lasting but extremely intense.
Triggers for headaches
A variety of factors can trigger headaches, including:
Environmental factors: bright light, noise, or climate change.
Physiological factors: lack of sleep, irregular diet.
Psychological factors: Stress and anxiety are common triggers.
Drug reactions: Certain medications may cause headaches as a side effect.
Self-diagnosis: Know when to seek more blessings and when to seek medical advice
When to deal with yourself
Mild to moderate episodic headaches can often be managed with simple home remedies, such as rest or over-the-counter pain medications.
When to seek medical help
Prompt medical attention should be sought in the following cases:
The headache increases suddenly and violently.
The headache lasts for a long time and gradually increases in intensity.
Headaches are accompanied by other serious symptoms, such as vision problems, speech problems, or limb weakness.
Limitations of self-diagnosis
Self-diagnosis is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Persistent headaches can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a brain tumor or other neurological problems. Correctly identifying the type and cause of headache is key to proper treatment.
By understanding the different types of headaches and their triggers, individuals can more effectively manage occasional headaches and identify when professional medical assistance is needed. Between self-management and seeking medical help, it's crucial to know this information.
Four practical headache relief tips
1. Master the art of relaxation: deep breathing and gentle massage
When you have a headache, your body is often in a state of tension. Using deep breathing techniques, each deep breath lasts 5 seconds, and slowly inhales and exhales, can significantly reduce stress levels, which in turn can reduce headaches. At the same time, gently massaging the neck and shoulders can help relax the muscles in these areas, which are often directly related to headaches. Doing these relaxation exercises daily can reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.
2. Optimize your lifestyle: Regular work and rest and reasonable diet
The influence of lifestyle habits on headaches cannot be ignored. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and ensuring 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep each night can help prevent headaches. In addition, avoiding a high-sugar, high-fat diet and reducing caffeine and alcohol intake are all necessary adjustments. These substances can trigger or exacerbate headaches, so adjusting your diet is an important step in relieving headaches.
3. Choose hot or cold compresses: depending on the type of headache
Depending on the type of headache, the effects of hot and cold compresses are different. For tension-type headaches, warm compresses can help relax the head and neck muscles and reduce pain. Applying a hot washcloth to the back of the neck for 15 to 20 minutes is effective in relieving headaches caused by tension. For migraines, cold compresses can reduce inflammation and relieve pain, and it is advisable to apply cold compresses to the headache area or neck for 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Regular moderate exercise: Enhance physical fitness and reduce seizures
Exercise can enhance cardiovascular function, improve blood circulation, and have a positive effect on the prevention and treatment of headaches. Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, swimming, or yoga, is recommended for at least 150 minutes per week. These exercises help release endorphins, nature's "painkillers," which reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
With these practical methods, not only can you get relief during a headache attack, but you can also reduce the overall incidence of headaches through long-term lifestyle modifications. The effectiveness of each method may vary from person to person, so it is recommended to try each method according to the individual's specific situation to find the best mitigation strategy for you.