Headaches are boring, aren’t they?
Many people around prefer to pop
a pill to get rid of headaches. Paracetamol or Ibuprofen work quickly and
usually well. However, it is not always best to take tablets; it is habit forming
and exposes you to risks from overuse of any particular kind of drug.
One or two bouts of headache a month is considered natural. However, if it becomes repetitive or persistent, it is definitely a matter of concern. You may require a medical check in such a situation.
But first, let’s see what causes
headaches? Well, there are hundreds of causes, but the most common ones for
catching a headache are exposure to cold or hot sun, congestion, circulatory
problems, fluid deprivation, flu-like illnesses, and tension or excessive
stress.
Sometimes weird reasons such as indigestion and acidity can also trigger a headache.
So, what do you do when you have
a headache?
There are numerous approaches to curing a headache. Here, I will dwell only on some of the natural ways of curing a headache that are of the non-repetitive type , which you can very well apply all by yourself without taking any pill, be it a drug or a herbal product.
When you’re having a headache,
take a warm bath or shower. This improves blood circulation in your body and
helps you to get relief.
Make sure you have drunk plenty of water; the commonest cause I see in general practice is reduced fluid intake. Water really is better than alternatives; it is more thirst-quenching, too!
You can also apply an ice-pack on
the painful area, particularly the forehead, temples or the back of your neck
for quick and natural relief from headache, especially if the hot sun is
considered as the trigger.
A gentle massage of the sore area can not only relax the sore tissues and muscles, but also improve circulation in the affected area making you feel better. You can use your index finger and/or thumb and apply a rotating pressure for 10-15 seconds and then release it. Do it for some time and I’m sure you’ll get good results.
As headaches are sometimes caused
by overstraining, rest can provide relief from headaches. Simply take a nap, or sit down quietly in a
low-lit room. Keep your eyes closed and try to release the tension in your
neck, back and shoulders.
Some light exercises are also
known to naturally relieve headaches quickly. I’d always suggest taking a walk.
However, if you’re in no mood to strain your legs, simply stand before an open
window where you can breathe in some fresh air. Take a deep breath, hold it for
some time and then slowly release it through both the nostrils (and not the
mouth). This exercise accelerates blood flow inside the body, particularly in
the region of the heads and gives you quick relief from headache…naturally.
This is the blog of Dr Alison Grimston, a United Kingdom GP and spiritual healer who works with animals and people. Here she offers insights and information on integrating the best of complementary and scientific medicine in human and animal care.
Disclaimer:
The content of our website is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor relating to any medical condition.
I used to get migraines all the time. I would either try to sleep it off (which never really worked but it felt nice to take a nap :) ) or I would take a hot shower. As soon as the hot water hit my head I could feel it relieve the pain immediately.
Great article!
Posted by: Sandra De Freitas | July 17, 2008 at 05:14 PM