Say no to the ache with these headache remedies.
You’re typing away at your keyboard and suddenly you’re hit with a wave of throbbing pain – bummer. Headaches are a real buzzkill when you’re getting work done or enjoying a leisurely arvo. When the pain just makes you want to crawl into bed and write off the day, here are some headache remedies to alleviate the ache.
1. Hydrate with H2O
When you’re hit by that dull ache at the back of your skull, a glass of water should be your first course of action. Headaches are often caused by dehydration, which is why reaching for that H2O might be what you need to rid yourself of the pain. If you’re one of those people who’s not a fan of unflavoured sips, add lemon or lime slices to your water for a zesty touch.
2. Calm your mind with aromatherapy
The pain can be caused by stress, and aromatherapy is said to soothe your nerves. So grab a diffuser and an essential oil of your choice for an easy headache remedy. From lavender to peppermint, there’s an array of scents that can help you destress. For an on-the-go solution, stock up on roll-on essential oils that you can easily chuck into your daily bag.
3. Ditch (or cut down on) the booze
If the throbbing pain is a constant in your life, examine your alcohol intake. Too much booze can cause dehydration, which may lead to headaches. Can’t say no to tipples? Instead of going cold turkey, try limiting your intake – and it might just reduce the frequency of your headaches.
4. Clock your eight hours a night
This is your sign for a snoozefest. It’s time to chase those zzz’s for better cognitive function and a reduced likelihood of headaches. Around eight hours of sleep is ideal, so rework your bedtime routine to clock in a good slumber. And if you’re already feeling the pain, take a quick nap, stat.
5. Seek help from a doctor
When all else fails, don’t be afraid to get professional help. Not sure if your headache is a sign of a medical condition? We spoke to Dr Sein Lwin, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon and Medical Director of the Advanced Brain and Spine Surgical Centre for expert advice. He cautions that a headache accompanied by symptoms such as fever, neck stiffness and dizziness may indicate a more serious brain-related issue.
Plus, if you notice a headache sufferer who has facial drooping, numbness on one side of their body or slurred speech, this may be a sign of a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis for serious neurological conditions is key, Dr Sein says, so keep an eye out for these symptoms!
Need to see a doctor for your chronic headache? Make an appointment at the Advanced Brain and Spine Surgical Centre for professional help. This specialist centre is dedicated to treating all brain, spine and nerve conditions, so you’ll be in good hands.
Don’t live with the discomfort: give at-home headache remedies a go or book a doctor’s appointment to rid yourself of that throbbing pain.
This post is in partnership with Beyond Medical Group.