Options For Tension Headache Treatment

Tension headache is a very common type of pain that people often feel in their head, neck and behind the eyes. This pain may be mild to intense, something like a tight band around the forehead. The headache is most likely known to be caused due to various muscle contractions in the neck and head and is often triggered by a number of factors, like alcohol, dry eyes, eye strain, fatigue, cold or flu, sinus infection, caffeine, lack of rest, emotional stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, poor posture, cold temperatures and physical disbalances etc. One may also go through the tension headache after driving or working on a screen for long hours. Often X-rays, MRI scans and other diagnostic procedures are conducted to rule out other complicated problems like a brain tumour. If you have been identified with tension headache, then you get yourself checked up with a proper tension headache treatment method.

Tension Headache Treatment

Let’s get familiar with the tension headache treatment with home remedies one by one:

• An ice pack or a hot compress may provide significant pain relief to a person.
• If your tension headache is triggered by lack of food or water, then eating something or drinking a non-caffeinated beverage may certainly help getting rid of the pain.
• A scalp massage can provide significant relief. While massaging, concentrate on areas above the temple and back of scalp
• Apart from scalp massage, massaging the whole body can also provide immediate relief
• If your headache is triggered by stress, try to relax your mind and body with meditation, and other relaxation and stress management techniques
• Improving your posture and getting involved in regular exercise is very effective in reducing the frequency of your tension headache
• Try to take small breaks during long drives and while working for several hours on a mobile or computer screen.
• Flaxseed is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids that have high anti-inflammatory properties. When you eat flaxseed on a regular basis, you may experience a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of your tension headaches.
• Inhaling the aroma of peppermint oil is found to give immediate relief in tension headache
• The scent of lavender oil is also a proven method to reduce pain caused due to tension headache

Tension headache treatment with medicines

There are effective medicines available in the market that are effective in treating tension headaches to a great extent, in which acetaminophen and ibuprofen are the most effective ones. Combination medicines with aspirin, caffeine and acetaminophen are also found to be effective. While these OTC medicines are safe in most cases, however overusing can result in more frequent and more severe tension headaches. The chances increase if you take these medicines more than twice a week. Also, these medicines should not be taken without a doctor’s consultation if you get a tension headache during pregnancy.

Tension Headache Treatment

Medicines containing aspirin aren’t recommended for children, as it may lead to Reye’s syndrome in them. Also, the excessive use of acetaminophen can lead to liver toxicity in children. So, keeping these risks in mind, you should consult with your doctor before taking any of these OTC drugs for your tension headache treatment. If your doctor suspects chronic tension headache, then you might be prescribed some necessary medicines to reduce the frequency and severity of your headaches. Such medicines often include a variety of anti-seizure drugs and antidepressants. Depending on the criticality of your health condition, the doctor may determine the best medicine for you.

Now that you've known the different tension headache treatment methods, you are good to prevent the headaches by identifying and staying away from your headache triggers. Also try to relax your muscles with deep breathing, meditation and relaxation exercises. However, if the pain is intense, consult your doctor immediately is a must. You may also take help of a doctor if you notice a change in the frequency, severity or location of your headaches, or if previously used treatment methods are no longer effective for you.