Headaches are the most common medical ailment in America; over 45 million people complain of having one headache type each year, and more than eight million Americans visit their doctor for help.
The type of treatment used to treat headaches depends on the type of a headache an individual is assailed with. The six major types of headaches are:
– TMJ (pain in front of the ears, at the temples)
– Sinus (pain above the eyes, at the cheekbones)
– Cluster (pain surrounding one eye)
– Tension (a squeezing-like pain around the crown)
– Neck (pain at the top of the neck and in the back of the head)
– (Throbbing pain accompanied by vision issues and nausea)
Thankfully, there are natural ways to treat these painful maladies; some are simple, and some are a bit more involved.
TMJ Headache
Jaw issues are the cause of TMJ headaches. Prevent tension in the jaw by
applying a warm compress to the temple right at the top of the jawline.
Lower jaw exercises performed after the compress such as opening and
closing the jaw and then moving it from side to side prevents tension
from turning into a headache. Perform this routine three to give times a
day continuously for giving minutes. Overall stress-reduction
techniques such as meditation, yoga and breathing exercises can also
reduce tension and prevent these nasty headaches.
Sinus Headache
Sinus headaches are caused by swelling in the sinuses and nose. The
first step in treating sinus headaches is too thin mucus out with
humidity in the form of using a humidifier, taking steamy showers and
drinking hot tea. The next step is to irrigate the sinuses with a
solution composed of 8-ounce water, 1/2 teaspoon of non-iodized salt and
a dash of baking soda. Place this mixture in a bulb syringe irrigation
kit, sinus rinse bottle or net pot to effectively clean out trapped
mucus, bacteria and airborne dust. During this time alternate between
hot and cold compresses on the eyes and nose to provide quick relief
from the pain.
Cluster Headache
Kudzu, a plant originating from Asia can provide relief from these
painful attacks. Melatonin also treats nighttime headache attacks.
Acupressure, acupuncture and therapeutic touch may also have some
success in relieving pain. The Mayo Clinic advises you to avoid alcohol,
and it is important to try to maintain a normal sleep schedule to
prevent a cluster period from appearing.
Tension Headache
Applying peppermint oil to the hairline allows cooling properties to
relax the tense muscles in the head and neck, and sipping on a hot
ginger tea oftentimes works as quickly as an aspirin. Tension headaches
are typically caused by stress and the lack of sleep, so try natural
relaxation methods such as regular exercise, meditation and yoga to get
more sleep and handle everyday stressors with less pressure.
Neck Headache
Neck headaches are typically caused by issues of the upper back,
shoulders and neck spreading to the head. A stiff neck or a neck that is
not properly supported are the main causes of a neck headache. Support
the neck with improved posture, and utilize yoga to align the neck
muscles. Take a hot bath to relax the muscles and then have someone
massage the neck and shoulders in small circular motions. Strengthen the
neck muscles by partaking in swimming, and place crushed ice on the
neck to decrease inflammation.
Migraine Headache
It is widely believed by experts that the brain misinterpreting nerve signals is the cause of migraines. According
to Doctor Oz, acupressure can effectively treat migraine headaches by
applying pressure to areas that can relieve pain. You can also do your
own acupuncture by firmly pressing between the first and second toe for 3
to 5 minutes. Feverfew, a supplement extracted from sunflower, can also
effectively treat migraines by reducing inflammation and pressure of
the nerves.
You can take the matter of headaches in your own hands with these simple, yet effective natural remedies that may already be in your home. As with all ailments, consult a doctor before using any herbal treatments or methods that can possibly interfere with prior conditions.