Know What to Do for Headaches
Almost everyone deals with headaches from time to time, especially when facing stress, anxiety and other common headache triggers. Here’s how to get a head start against the ache, so you can take on your day.
If you have other concerning symptoms along with a headache, our urgent care experts are here to help, seven days a week and with no appointment needed.
How to Avoid Headache Triggers
Tension headaches can start in response to something around you, so controlling what you eat and drink, your environment and the activities in your daily life can often help. Here’s how:
- Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep is a common headache trigger, so if you’re well-rested, you’re less likely to develop a headache.
- Reduce stress: Finding healthy ways to manage the challenges of the day — like taking a deep breath — can help prevent headaches.
- Sit up straight: Good posture helps reduce tension and keep your blood flowing. If you’re seated at work, get up and move around when you can.
- Take breaks from screen glare: Use the 20/20/20 rule, which means every 20 minutes, shift your eyes away from your screen to look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Watch what you eat and drink: Hunger can cause headaches, as can caffeine withdrawal. Being mindful of what you put into your body can help you gain control over headaches.
Other factors can also play a role, including environmental and food sensitivities, hormones, physical activity, medication, medical conditions and more. If you get headaches often, talk with your primary care provider.
How to Treat Headaches
At the first sign of a headache, try these home remedies:
- Apply pressure where it hurts
- Drink plenty of water
- Get some fresh air
- Lay a cool washcloth or compress on your forehead
- Rest in a dark, quiet room
- Take an over-the-counter medication, such as an analgesic or pain reliever
If you experience nausea with your headaches, you can also try:
- Bland foods, like crackers
- Chamomile tea
- Deep breathing
- Ginger root, candies or soda
- Vitamin B6
- Water
When these remedies aren’t enough or when headaches disrupt your life, it’s time to see a doctor. We’re always nearby to help when you need us so you can get back to feeling better. Make an online reservation here.
