Headache Rescue 101

Mind is All

When you've got a headache, you can't think about anything else. This guide will help you figure out what caused your headache and how you can make it stop, fast.

Headaches are caused by swelling of muscles and veins in your head. The nerves associated with those swollen veins and muscles send a message to the brain, protesting the swelling. The end result is a terrible headache.

The majority of headaches are caused by tension. A tension headache feels as if someone wrapped a rubber band around your head. Usually tension headaches are concentrated either on the upper neck and across the back of the head, or in a swarth across your forehead. Tension headaches are usually triggered by excessive noise, high-sugar foods, sleep deprivation, or stress. Tension headaches can usually be relieved by a nap, massage, a cool compress, or time alone in a quiet area.

The second most commonly reported headache is related to sinus pressure. You may feel this headache radiating down from the crown to spots on your face, as pressure from the sinus cavities causes this condition. Try drinking fluids, clearing your sinuses, massaging your temples and sinuses, and taking hot showers.

If you get a migraine headache, you may be knocked off your feet altogether. Migraines are so intense that they often cause nausea, vomiting, the seeing of stars, unbearable pain, feeling faint, and the inability to handle light, strong smells, or any kind of noise. You maybe able to cope with your migraine if you can find a dark, peaceful place where you will not be disturbed.

You should be alarmed if you have a headache that is severe enough to produce convulsions, excessive fever, communication problems, or muscle control issues. Head to your doctor's office to eliminate the possibility of encephalitis, meningitis, or stroke.

In most cases, you can find headache relief if you change up your diet or environment. You may find that a good rest and a couple of analgesics (such as ibuprofen) will do the trick. However, you will want to take precautions if you can't get rid of a headache easily or if they recur.