30 October 2014

HEADACHES - 5 ways to manage a headache





The common headache affects 6 million Australians a year. 
Here's how to manage it.

5 ways to manage a headache


Find out where your headache is coming from

Did you know the majority of headaches are caused by muscle tightness in the head and neck region? Try and understand where your headache is coming from. Often treating the source of the pain will provide more effective pain relief. If you're unsure consult your local pharmacist or GP.

Loosen up

Ease the tightness in your muscles by trying relaxation techniques such as head, neck or shoulder massage, stretching or applying a heat pack to sore muscles. Also if you're feeling particularly stressed, try to relax by exercising or spending a few minutes meditating. Often releasing the tension in your body will help ease a headache.

Don't slouch!

Bad posture over an extended period will overwork or weaken muscles, which in turn could cause muscle pain and headaches. If you sit in front a desk all day, get into the habit of checking your posture regularly and also taking regularly breaks away from your desk.

Get some quality shut-eye

As with a lot of health issues, quality of sleep plays a big part in the management of headaches. Make sure you're getting plenty of rest each night and invest in a quality pillow that provides plenty of neck support.

Keep a headache diary

Recording what you do/eat/drink, your hormonal cycle, any medication you are on and changes in environment over a period of time will help you identify any patterns that may lead to headaches. Having this information readily available will also help your GP or pharmacist to diagnose the kind of headache you're experiencing. 
Source: http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/

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