The excruciating pain from migraines can be reduced by making some lifestyle changes that lessen the severity of pain from a headache. Remedies that can be used at home can also offer migraine relief and ease tension headaches for people who are reluctant to use medication. However, it's best to first consult a physician to rule out a medical reason for the headaches.
Herbal Migraine Relief
Butterbur is a recommended treatment in 100 Questions & Answers about Migraine (Jones & Bartlett, May 28, 2009) by Katherine A. Henry, and Anthony P. Bossis. According to the authors, this herb can reduce the frequency of headaches and lessen the pain when they do occur. Other headache remedies include ginger, willow bark tea, peppermint candy or oil, and eucalyptus.
Reducing Migraine Symptoms
Certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the frequency of attacks and severity of pain associated with migraine headaches, according to Mayo Clinic. Estrogen can make symptoms worse for some women. In these cases, it's best to try to avoid or at least limit the use of medications that contain estrogen such as birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy. Consult with a physician about alternative treatments.
Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity weight can trigger migraines for some people. If weight loss is necessary, get advice from a doctor about a proper diet. Regular exercise can help get rid of unwanted pounds. Also, staying active promotes a feeling of relaxation which can prevent migraine and tension headaches.
Tension Headache Remedies
Maintaining good posture can also help relieve headache pain, according to Mayo Clinic. This reduces the amount of pressure on the muscles. As a result, the muscles, tendons, and ligaments can relax and will be less likely to tense up. Stand with head up high and shoulders back. Sit with head erect and thighs parallel to the floor.
Web M.D. recommends doing breathing exercises to reduce the stress associated with migraine and tension headaches. Before starting, find a quiet place and then get into a comfortable position. Do this with the eyes closed and free the mind from all thoughts and focus on the breathing. Slowly breathe in and count to seven. Then slowly exhale to the count of seven. Do this breathing exercise for 10 minutes daily to relieve stress.
The article titled Natural Migraine Relief offers information about more remedies for headaches. The article titled Remedies for Depression provides more information about relaxation techniques to relieve tension.
Jennifer Graham - Jennifer Graham is a Writer/Producer for a video production company. She helps create videos that raise awareness to health related ...
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