Headache - vank

May 13, 2019 Leer Michaels

15 New Home Remedies for Migraine Headaches in Adults

Human beings suffer from many afflictions, but the most common one has got to be migraines. Since time immemorial, there have always been cases of people suffering from mild, to severe cases of headache. It is also believed that some cases are genetic. One might wonder what life would be like if there are no easily available medications to give relief in times of pain. Home remedies for migraines in adults have been tested and tried over time, and there is a reason to believe that they work. A migraine is characterized by a deep throbbing feeling on the side of the head. The pain gets awful, sometimes unbearable, and can last for hours or days. Sometimes, nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light, sound, and movement also accompany migraines.

Are there known causes of migraine?

Causes of migraines

The exact cause of migraines has not been determined, but it is presumed that there are many contributing factors. A migraine occurs in four distinct stages;

Prodome - Subtle body changes may be an indication that you’re about to have migraines. Some of the changes are constipation, stiff necks, and mood changes.
Aura - Auras are signs of the nervous systems, and they do not always occur during migraines.
Attack - Attack lasts the duration of the migraine, and how often they occur varies. During the attack, a person might experience nausea, pain on the sides of the head, and sensitivity to light among others.
Post-dome - Post-dome happens after an attack, and often the person is left feeling confused, weak and at times dizzy.

Home remedies for migraine headaches in adults

1. Get enough sleep

Did you know that getting quality sleep has been proven to be effective in dealing with migraines? Sleep problems such as insomnia, snoring, apnea, restless leg syndrome, among others have all been proven to trigger migraines. It is recommended that one gets eight hours of sleep, as this helps the body to relax and rejuvenate itself, and the part of the brain that is responsible for pain sensitivity does not get affected. Can you figure out if your migraines are sleep related? Track your sleep pattern, when your migraines happen and how long they last.

2. Drink water

Being dehydrated feeds migraines and makes them worse and more painful to deal with. There are no two ways about it; the body needs water to function. Drink water every day, at least eight glasses a day. Drinking water is not only advised because of the role it plays in relieving migraines, but also for its importance in the functioning of the body. A study showed that people who drink water regularly had fewer reports of migraines. Drinking water is a readily available remedy for dealing with headaches

3. Reduce stress

It is believed that being stressed causes a change in hormonal levels and chemical composition of the body, thus causing migraines. For some people, migraines are a direct result of being stressed, while for others stress is a contributing factor to getting migraines. We are all prone to being stressed, or being in stressful environments. But it is also possible that we change these situations to a more flexible and preferably relaxed environment. Relaxed minds, reduced stress and if you’re lucky no migraines. Wouldn’t that be the ideal situation?

4. Avoid foods that trigger migraine

Research has shown that a few changes to a person's diet to help provide relief from migraines and headache. People have different triggers, and some are food related. Some of the foods that are more associated with migraine offset are coffee, pasta, citrus, tomato, and dairy products among others. A plant-based diet and natural foods that do not have preservatives have also been known to be non-triggers for migraines. If changing your diet can give you relief from migraine, would you try and see how well it works for you?

5. Exercise

Can exercise reduce migraines? It has been shown that regular exercise reduces the severity and intensity of headaches and migraines, and it is advisable for people who struggle with migraines to establish a workout routine. Be careful that the routine is not too intense that it triggers migraines. For some people, however, some intense workouts can trigger headaches, and in this case then one should change the routine. Exercise is good for general health and should be part of a persons’ lifestyle.

6. Alcohol and caffeine

Coffee drinkers often suffer from withdrawal when they go long without coffee, the withdrawal causes headache, and at times it worsens to migraines. Coffee is not always a trigger for migraines, but it is also considered an inhibitor in that it prevents the onset of migraines. Alcohol, on the other hand, causes the blood vessels to relax and increases blood flow to the brain. Those who are prone to getting migraines are advised to reduce their alcohol intake.

7. Do not skip meals

There are times when one is too busy that they forget to eat, or they remember to but do not have enough time to eat. Life isn’t always straightforward because sometimes obvious aren't so obvious. Whatever the case, it is vital to create time in your busy schedule and eat. Having healthy snacks can be an acceptable alternative.

8. Eat well

Did you know that sometimes when you fail to eat, you are setting yourself up for a migraine? Drops in blood sugar level have been shown to lead to migraines. It is advisable that one gets all the recommended meals in a day to prevent the blood sugar level from dropping and to have snacks in case one skips a meal. Eating well not only nourishes the body but also helps prevent migraine. Isn’t this reason enough to properly nourish the body?

9. Meditate

Meditation is a mind-body practice that allows you to focus your attention and increase awareness. It also enables you to relax and focus your mind. There are five different types of meditation;

Zen
Transcendental
Vipassana
Mindfulness

Studies have shown that meditation alleviates migraines, and it does not take long to do. This one of the timeless home remedies for migraine.

10. Avoid physical exertion

Resting can help alleviate symptoms associated with migraines, and headache. Picture this; you are in a quiet room, no disturbances. You have time to relax and be, and finally, you can be in your happy place. Avoiding physical exertion is crucial. Do not overwork yourself, and if possible take time to relax and recharge. We only get to live once so take time off and care for your wellbeing. Avoiding physical exertion is a cost-free home remedy to relieve migraines, and it goes without saying that it is worth trying.

11. Essential oils

What are essential oils? They are oils containing a high concentration of plants, leaves, roots, and other parts of a plant. Essential oils have been used to cure migraines and other conditions successfully. They stimulate the body and improve blood flow. Essential oils are best used with other carrier oils such as coconut oil, olive oil, and others. The essential oils are safe and have no side effects on health. The most common essential oils that are used to relieve migraines are; peppermint, rosemary, eucalyptus, chamomile, and lavender oil.

12. Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used as a home remedy to treat a headache. It involves inserting thin needles on specific body parts, and this relieves tension. Research shows getting at least six acupuncture treatment sessions prevents migraines. It does not only work for headaches and migraines, but for other conditions such as stress relief. Acupuncture is a safe practice when administered by a trained professional. There could be mild side effects such as slight bruising which commonly occurs when the needle is pulled out.

13. Herbs

The need and demand for using natural remedies have increased in the previous years. Herbs are best known for their healing properties and nutritional value. The most common herbs used as home remedies for migraines are;

Passionflower
Black cohosh
Butterbur
Feverfew
Bay
Basil
Catnip
Chamomile
Ginger
Lavender
Mint
Rosemary

Before settling on the best herb to use to relieve migraines, it is advisable to seek a medical doctors advice. Herbs are considered to be relatively safe and should have no health complications. As a home remedy for pain relief, they are a safe choice.

14. Acupressure

Acupressure is an old traditional Chinese practice that has been used to relieve pain. What does acupressure involve? Chinese believe that the life force has pathways on the body. When you apply pressure on the joints, it rebalances the natural energy in the body and causes relief from symptoms of various conditions. It is mostly used for pain relief and has proven successful. It is believed that acupressure improves circulation, reduces tension and triggers the release of endorphins.

15. Massage

Massage not only relaxes the body but also improves blood flow and has been used time and time again to relieve migraines. Getting a massage before the onset of migraines could protect you from a full-blown attack. If you are prone to getting migraines, then it would be good for you to monitor and know your triggers as well as symptoms. However, it is essential to note that migraines are mere headaches, but can also be a symptom of neurological disorder. It is crucial that before it gets too bad, you should consult a doctor.

Home Remedies for Migraine Headaches in Adults

May 12, 2019 Leer Michaels

15 Headache Relief Pressure Points To Press for Instant Headache Relief

Anyone who has suffered from headache certainly knows it can make life a living hell. It can get very nasty that you can’t work, drive or even have a conversation. Natural home remedies for headaches don’t wreak havoc on your body, and you are less likely to be over-dependent on them like other over the counter medicines. The "go-to" first action is by pressing a few pressure points on various parts of the body releases tension and stimulates energy flow. The blood vessels get dilated, and this, in turn, relaxes muscle tissue and thus your headache is relieved. This method is commonly referred to as acupressure. There are many headache relief pressure points that are used to relieve the tension of the headaches; and here, let’s look at the most simple ones you can do on your own without expert assistance.

Check out How to Make a Headache Go Away Fast Without Medicine [15 Easy Ways]

It is required that you be in a relaxed state of mind and environment. You may achieve this by breathing in and out deeply and try to take your mind to a peaceful place. It’s also quite advisable to choose the best posture you will be using for this exercise. You can either decide to sit on the ground with your legs apart or lie facing upwards or lie facing down. Headache relieving exercises can be done several times a day. You can also do this as often as you need or until all the pain is gone. The pressure is applied using your fingers. Don’t press so firm that it hurts. Believe it or not, but most headaches relief pressure points are found on various parts of the body and not necessarily on the head. For example; the points can be on the neck, shoulders, hands, feet and many other areas.

Here are some of the pressure points that can be used to relieve headache;

1. The union valley

It is located between your thumb and the index finger of both your hands and feet. Pinch this area with the thumb and index finger of the opposite hand firmly for 10 seconds. Make small circles with your thumb in one direction and do the same to the other hand. This point when pressed relieves tension in the head and neck, and it is also believed to alleviate most kinds of headaches.

2. Drilling bamboo

These points are located in the middle of either side of the spot where the nose meets the ridge of your eyebrows. Use both your index fingers to apply pressure on both points at once, hold for 10 seconds then release and repeat. This headache relief pressure point relieves head pains caused by eye strain and sinus pressure, and it is the most popular form of headaches self-treatment.

3. Gates of consciousness

These points are located at the base of the skull in the parallel areas between two vertical neck muscles. You should place your middle and index finger of either hand onto these points. Press firmly upwardly on both sides at once for 10 seconds, release and repeat. You can add more pressure for better results. It won’t cause any harm to that specific part.

4. The third eye

The third eye is not an actual eye, but a point located between your two eyebrows where the bridge of your nose meets your forehead. Apply firm pressure using the index finger of one hand to this area for 1 minute, and this will reduce eye strain and sinus headache. The procedure also gives a moment of calmness and helps in clearing mental blockages.

5. Shoulder well

The point located at the edge of your shoulder, halfway between your shoulder point and base of your neck. You may use the thumb of one hand to apply firm, circular pressure for 1 minute then switch and repeat on the other side. It relieves headaches removing stiffness in your neck and shoulders.

6. A brain reflex point

A brain reflex point is found on the fleshy part behind the big toe of both feet. Make small circles with your thumb in the fleshy part or pinch on the pad of the toe and index finger for 10 seconds, release and repeat. This will help release congested energy and ease your headache.

7. The eye reflex point

Where is this located? The eye reflex point is found between the base of the second and third toes on both feet. Apply pressure with your thumbs for 10 seconds and release. Alternatively, make circles with your thumbs. These simulations relieve the headache caused by eye strain which often results from exposure to bright light for a long time.

8. Neck reflex point

It is usually located at the base of the big toe on both feet. Apply pressure for 10 seconds and make small circles using your thumbs. Blood circulation to the neck is increased, and hence your headache will be relieved.

9. A wind mansion headache relief pressure point

It is found in the middle of your neck or hollow under the base of your skull. Press here with your thumb and hold for a minute then release. Please try to breathe normally for best results.

10. Facial beauty pressure point

It is located on the outer side of each nostril near the bottom of your cheekbone. Place both your index fingers at the bottom of your cheekbones alongside each one of your nostrils. Press, hold for a minute and release. Pressure applied to this point will reduce stiffness in your jaw which is the primary cause of tension and sinus headaches.

11. Manipulative points

There is a group of points that curve around the outer ear on your skull. They are called manipulative points. Apply simple circular pressure on these points. This should be done on both the ears, and it will give your head a soothing sensation.

12. Nostrils

The primary function of the nostril is to breathe, but it also services as a pressure point for headache relief. Pinch the nostril on the opposite of the septum. Likewise, simulate that point in a circular motion. This momentarily relieves severe headaches.

13. Ears

Place your middle index finger on that small bit of cartilage in the center of your ear. Move your finger forward an inch, open and close your jaw. You should feel a slight depression. Finally place your middle, index and ring fingers on that spot and massage it in small circular directions.

14. Top of the head

Vertex headaches are often caused by stress. They can be relieved by placing the middle finger into the highest point of your head and make small circular moves. This should be done on either side of your skull towards your ears. You keep breathing while you apply pressure on this point. You will be able to relieve neck stiffness, headache, emotional congestion and many more.

15. Neck joint

Give a gentle squeeze at the end where the shoulders meet your neck. It will send energy down your body. This pressure point is going to make you feel amazing within a few moments. Although many medications are used to relieve headaches, it is would be best not to get used to them as they can result in addiction. Some drugs like acetaminophen if taken consistently, can cause liver damage, in rare cases, they can also cause kidney damage. Overuse of aspirin and ibuprofen can result in stomach pains. If you have to use them, kindly consult a specialist. The increased usage of pain-relief drugs do you more harm than good, and they often result in health complications. Non-medicinal remedies have been used to relieve headache pains for a long time. The above-highlighted points sum up acupressure on headache pain revival. Acupressure has been most paramount in traditional Chinese medicine [TSM. It is still in use today, and this is a testimony of its effectiveness in the treatment of illness and pain complications It is advisable that you be patient and consistent when applying pressure on the acupressure points. You can either massage the points yourself or let another person do it for you. We can make a sound judgment that treating headache pains without medication is the best way to go. It helps save on extra costs and also, helps your body relax and be assured of being relieved of stress. Dealing with stress can be very cumbersome. Just remember that this is a complementary method of treating headaches. Consider seeking out medical help in case you have a recurring or intense headache. You are the one who knows your body better. You should be able to identify what triggered the headache in the first place. Some of the factors may be;

Light
Allergies
Overworking
Stress.

The good thing is these triggers can be avoided. For example, avoid much exposure to light, stop overworking or exercise. They are usually assumed, but they do play a significant role in relieving of headaches. Research is still ongoing in finding complete cures for headaches. Treatment is always aimed at preventing a full-blown attack and alleviating the symptoms that may occur. Using acupressure on headache relief pressure points has been proven to work and has helped people get relief from headaches. It is worth a try to see how effective they can be.

Headache How to Make a Headache Go Away Fast

May 8, 2019 Leer Michaels

How to Make a Headache Go Away Fast Without Medicine in 15 Ways

Getting rid of headaches without the use of medication:

A large number of people suffer from headaches. It is a common especially amongst the elderly. It can be a sign of emotional distress or stress or some systemic or chronic disease. It causes many other problems like people to find it difficult to focus on their studies and daily work. It disturbs their daily activities. In most cases it is idiopathic and its causes can`t be ruled out. Headache affects people regardless of age, gender or race. Almost half of the adults experience it at some point in their life.

The different Types of headaches:

There are many types of headaches according to the nature of pain

Tension headache:

It is the most common form of headache. In this type, the patient feels a tight band around their head and a dull aching pain.

Cluster headache:

They last up to 15 to 30 minutes. This type of headache occurs two to three times a day. These are severe and short lasting usually affect one side of the brain.

Migraines

These types of headaches cause pulsating, throbbing intense pain on one side of the head. These headaches are also accompanied by

Blurred vision
Nausea
Sensory disturbances
Lightheadedness.

Rebound headaches

Rebound headaches occur as a result of misuse or side effects of medication used for headaches. They usually begin early in the day and persist throughout the day. It is relieved by medication but worsens when their effects wear off.

What causes a headache?

(IHS) International Headache Society classifies headaches by their association with other diseases and either they are caused by other disease or not.

Primary headaches:

Primary headaches are stand-alone diseases that are caused by overactivity or some problem of the structures present in the head. These structures include blood vessels, muscles, nerves, of the head and neck area. It can also be a result of chemical alteration in the brain. Cluster headaches, migraine, and stress headaches are all primary headaches. Their exact mechanism is unknown but it is believed that they are due to some neuronal or muscular anomaly triggered by some activity or habit.

Secondary headache:

Secondary headaches are those that are stimulated by some other systemic disease that stimulates pain sensory nerve endings. In other words, they are a symptom of another disease. The headache can be caused by a wide variety of diseases blood clot, trauma, hypoxia, brain tumor, hemorrhages, ice freeze, carbon monoxide poisoning, dehydration, concussion, glaucoma, stroke, etc. Headaches can be a sign of very severe disorder and if it is persistent and chronic seek medical advice. Blood pressure, diabetes, and malnutrition some genetic disorder, smoking, and another predisposing factor must be ruled out in order to confirm the cause of headache.

10 Ways to cure a headache without the use of medication:

Drink Plenty of Water:

Daily intake of water can prevent headaches and reduce their effectiveness. Dehydration can be a cause of some multiple headaches and discomfort. Studies show that less water intake can induce mood changes and can alter the feelings or thinking of a person. Studies showed that even slight dehydration can have noticeable effects on human behavior and a general state of uneasiness is observed in such persons. Getting hydrated means to drink plenty of water periodically over the course of time. We can also get water from foods rich in fluids such as fruits, soups, and shakes.

2. Cold and Warm compress:

Cold and warm compress is extremely helpful in reducing headaches. These compresses are an immediate treatment to cure headaches. A cold compress is a simple treatment that people can have at hand. By applying an ice pack or cold item to the head and neck region can help reduce headache. It is because a cold sensation can help in constricting the blood vessels and reduce inflammation. A study showed that 30 minutes of cold compress was helpful in reducing migraine. In cases of tension headache and stress where there is tightening of muscles, warm compression can help relax them. It can be as simple as a warm towel or a hot bath or shower can also help relieve a tension headache.

3. Massage headache relief pressure points:

Sometimes a physical pressure or situation can be the reason for the headache. So, removing that physical reason can relieve pressure and will help to reduce the tension of the headache. The physical pressure can be as simple as a ponytail that females use to bind their hair. Some people can get a headache by wearing lens, hat, caps or glasses. You can check for anything that is putting pressure on your head for too long.

4. Turning down the lights:

People who stare continuously at bright lights in the form of smartphones at home or laptops and computers in offices are more prone to develop headaches. Some people become sensitive to bright light and it can aggravate their headache. The best way to relieve such headaches is to dim the light or rest in a dark room.

5. Exercise:

Exercise is the best way to prevent any type of headache. When you do an exercise, the circulation in your body increases and you remain fit. Your body muscles become active and provide you with an efficient way to keep yourself healthy. Thus, there would be less chance for the headache to occur.

6. Get Adequate Sleep:

Adequate sleep is required for the proper functioning of our body. Less or more sleep not only has a harmful effect on our body, but it can also cause different types of headaches. Daily sleep of 7 to 9 hours is beneficial in not only preventing but also removing headache.

7. Relaxation Techniques for Headache relief:

A number of relaxation techniques are available that help in relaxing our body. Some of these include deep breathing, meditation, and yoga. Acupuncture is a Chinese method of boosting body energy. A number of needles are placed into the surface of the skin. The purpose of acupuncture is not to harm our body but to increase our body energy and prevent migraine and tension headaches or reduce their energy. Massaging the pressure points may also be fruitful. Some people do it instinctively when they are experiencing a headache. Rubbing the area between the eyebrows and sides of your head can help to reduce headaches effectively.

8. Caffeine and herbal tea:

Caffeine has the property of relaxing our blood vessels those results in smooth circulation. So, caffeine and caffeine products such as tea, coffee, and soda are effective in reducing migraine. Most of the headache management drugs also contain caffeine as a component. Studies have also shown that caffeine has the potential to reduce the frequency of headaches. Herbal tea not only adds water to our diet but it also has many beneficial natural compounds that are helpful in headaches. Ginger tea, according to some studies, is extremely helpful in migraines. Peppermint, chamomile, and lavender are some herbs that are present in calming teas.

9. Essential oils and Vitamins:

Aromatherapy uses special oils that are useful in reducing headaches. In 2018, a study showed that inhaling lavender oil for around 15 m9nutes not just only reduce headache but also freshens your mind and body. Similarly, Peppermint oil is extremely useful in reducing tension headaches. Some individuals may be bothered by the aroma of some essential oils and experimenting with different oils that a person feels relaxing may help in eradicating headaches. Vitamin B is easily available in the form of supplements in the market. Different types of Vitamin B including B6, B12 and foliate help reduce migraines and preventing headache symptoms. Some Vitamin B helps against headaches and reduces them. Vitamin E also helps to reduce migraines and migraine symptoms caused during menstruation. These vitamins have low to no side effects. Vitamin E is helpful for menstruating females because it balances their hormonal level along with treating migraines.

10 Avoiding strong smells and reducing alcohol consumption:

Some people feel uncomfortable around strong, pungent smells. Strong smells of paint, petrol, and perfumes irritate most people. To help prevent headaches from these sources, one must try to avoid visiting these places. Use of excessive alcohol is harmful to our body and it also causes severe headaches. Headaches are one of the most common side effects of alcohol. Even with mild drinking people can experience long term headache. Alcohol also causes dehydration which further exaggerates headache symptoms. Anyone who is uncertain of the effects of alcohol on him should try limiting the use of alcohol in daily life.

Is a headache disease?

Headache may not be a disease but it might be the symptom of many diseases. It is a chronic pain that makes our daily life work difficult. It creates a sense of irritation and anger if persisted for long type. Headache is of different types depending upon the area in pain and duration. Cluster headache, tension headache, and migraine are some of its types. Headaches do not always require medical treatment. They can easily be treated at home using different remedies. Water, herbal tea, essential oils, sleep, and exercise are some of the remedies that can help you escape headache. If the headache persists for more than normal days, you must see a doctor nearby. References:

Seunggu Han, MD. 13 December 2018. 19 natural remedies for a headache. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323992.php
Diana Rodriguez.27 October 2011. Fast Headache Relief.

https://www.everydayhealth.com/headache-migraine/fast-headache-relief.aspx