Taking a pill to relieve a headache can be a challenge for many people. Some prefer to avoid medication and look for alternatives to ease the pain.
Fortunately, there are various tricks and methods that allow you to bypass the process of swallowing a pill. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of these methods.
1. Know your migraines
It's important to know that not all headaches are the same, and that it's essential to consult a doctor if the pain persists. Migraines are one type of headache for which it is advisable to consult a professional. They can vary from moderate to intense pain, lasting from a few hours to a few days. If you already have a family member who has been diagnosed with migraines, it's likely that you too are prone to this type of pain. It's important to react at the first signs of a migraine, such as blurred vision or spots in front of the eyes. What's more, certain contraceptive pills can aggravate migraines, especially those containing estrogen. If you notice that your headache has intensified since you started taking the contraceptive pill, it's possible that the pill is to blame.
2. Protect yourself from light and noise
When you suffer from a headache, you may be particularly sensitive to light and noise. It is therefore advisable to protect yourself from these stimuli. A commonly used method is to abstain from bright light and find a quiet, calm place to rest. You can also try wearing blue-filter glasses to protect your eyes from the bright rays of computer and telephone screens.
3. Use the cold
The reflex of placing a wet towel on the forehead when you have a headache is well known and really works. Applying cold for a while can bring significant relief. If you're out and about or at work, you can simply take a bottle of cold water and run it over your face, concentrating on areas such as the forehead and nape of the neck.
4. Eat and drink
Often, headaches and other aches and pains occur when we haven't eaten for a while and our body lacks energy. So it's essential to eat something to recharge our batteries. Certain foods, such as nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, etc.) and fruit (watermelon, for example), can help relieve pain by providing nutrients and hydration. It's also important to drink enough water, as dehydration can trigger headaches. However, be careful not to drink too much, as overconsumption of water can cause hyponatremia. Always drink water in moderation. Caffeine can also be beneficial in relieving headaches, but it's best to consume it in moderation and not make a habit of it.
5. Try acupressure
Acupressure is a little-known but highly effective method for many people. It involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to relieve pain. These points, known as acupuncture points, are used in traditional Chinese medicine. To relieve a headache, you can use acupressure by applying pressure to the Hegu point, located on the back of the hand between the base of the thumb and the index finger. Regular practice can help relieve discomfort.
6. Opt for a massage
Massages can also be effective in alleviating headaches. For example, you can gently massage your neck, moving up and down and from the center to the sides for a few minutes. Another massage involves interlacing your hands behind your head, then sliding them forward, while using your thumbs to massage the sides of your skull.
7. Test the “glass of water
An amazing trick that has helped many people relieve their headaches is to use a glass of water and a towel. Simply place the towel over your head and invert the glass of water over it, so that all the water falls onto the towel. As the water flows, bubbles may form in the glass, but don't worry. Once all the bubbles have disappeared, the pain should subside.
8. The daith piercing
Finally, a more modern and daring method of relieving headaches is the daith piercing. This involves piercing the cartilage of the ear, in a specific area traditionally used in Chinese acupuncture. Some people claim to have experienced a significant improvement in their head pain after having this piercing done. However, this method should be considered with caution, and it's always advisable to consult a specialist to assess whether it's right for you.
It's important to note that all these tips depend on the individual and the pain he or she is experiencing. It's always a good idea to take additional measures, such as taking an analgesic, or to consult a healthcare professional if the pain persists or worsens.
