5 Ways To Treat And Prevent Chronic Headaches
If you're suffering from chronic headaches you need to find ways of treating and preventing them. There are a number of different approaches that you can combine into one plan that may work for you. Here are ways you can treat and prevent chronic headaches:
1. Try NSAIDS
NSAIDS, or non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, are medications that reduce inflammation and can help treat your chronic headaches. Start with over-the-counter lower dose NSAIDS. If this doesn't reduce your headaches, your doctor can prescribe prescription strength forms of the medicine. You can take the medicine with caffeine so that it will work faster, as long as caffeine isn't a trigger for your headaches.
2. Reduce stress
Stress can be a contributor to headaches, especially ones that are chronic. Stress causes muscles to tense, which can even make headaches worse. Stress reduction can reduce your headaches. Here are some tips on dealing with stress:
- Start a regular exercise routine.
- Meditate and perform yoga several times a week or daily.
- Get massages. Massage not only reduces stress but relaxes your muscles to further prevent headaches.
- Focus more on activities and hobbies you enjoy.
- Keep track of your stress in a journal so you can identify your stressors and avoid them.
3. Get acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient form of therapy that has been around for centuries. In acupuncture, thin, sterile needles are inserted into your skin at defined points. The points are determined based on the condition from which you're suffering. Acupuncture has been proven to work for people with frequent headaches, especially when combined with other forms of treatment including medication.
4. Treat hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is a condition in which blood sugar levels drop, causing symptoms such as dizziness and headaches. If you have frequent headaches, contact your doctor to see if hypoglycemia could be the culprit. You should also take steps to make sure your blood sugar levels stay regular. Here are some tips:
- Eat smaller, frequent meals rather than a few large ones.
- Make sure the food you eat is high in protein and fiber for longer lasting energy.
- When you have symptoms, such as a headache, eat a piece of candy or drink some juice to boost your blood sugar.
5. Make dietary changes
In addition to the treatment recommended by your doctor, you may also need to change your diet to further reduce your headaches. Certain food and beverages may trigger headaches in some people. Here are common triggers:
- Aged cheese
- Alcohol
- Food with nitrates and nitrites, like cured meat
- Nuts
- Bread
- Beans
- Caffeine
- Food containing MSG
These are ways you can reduce the frequency of chronic headaches. Talk to your doctor, like Health Atlast Fountain Valley, to develop a full, comprehensive treatment plan.
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