Headache Remedies

Taking some time to lay down and close your eyes can be an effective way to help relieve headaches. Sometimes, a simple nap is enough to do the trick. Resting your eyes and relaxing your body can be the reset you need to ease tension and help a headache dissipate.

Staying hydrated is important for more than just warding off headaches—it helps support overall health and a balanced lifestyle. Dehydration is a common contributor to headaches, so make sure to get plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially when you feel a headache coming on. If you find you’re not drinking enough throughout the day, try carrying a reusable water bottle with you as a reminder, or make a habit of drinking a tall glass with your meals.

Placing a cold pack or ice cubes wrapped in a towel on your forehead is a headache remedy that many say helps their migraines. The cool temperature is soothing and can offer some relief. If you don’t have a cold pack, a bag of frozen peas can work in a pinch, as can taking a cold shower.i

Depending on the type of headache you’re suffering from, warmer temperatures may be more soothing than cold. Try placing a heating pad on your neck, the back of your head, or applying a warm compress directly to your forehead. You can also take a hot shower or bath. The warmth can help relax your muscles and relieve tension.ii

Whether you have a tension headache from staring at your computer screen for too long or you’re prone to stress-induced migraines, taking a few moments to relax is never a bad idea. Step away from the source of stress and take some deep breaths. Try taking a walk around the block or sitting outside in nature. Doing some simple stretches like a neck-to-ear stretch or expansive upper body stretch can give you immediate relief from the tension that comes from sitting hunched over a desk all day. In the long term, developing a yoga or meditation practice can also be beneficial.

Many people find that they experience light sensitivity with headaches, and migraines in particular.iii If you also find this to be the case, turn down the lights or go into a dark room. If you need to go outside, wear sunglasses. You should also be mindful of the light coming from your screens—computer, TV, and phone. Turning down the brightness on your technology may give you some relief. Take it one step further and adjust your screen settings so that the light it gives off is warmer, rather than the harsh blue light that can be uncomfortable on our eyes.

An over-the-counter drug like ibuprofen can help provide temporary pain relief for headaches when other home headache relief remedies aren’t cutting it. Try Advil® Tablets or Advil® Liqui-Gels® for fast and powerful relief.

Knowing your triggers and preventing headaches before they come on is the ultimate headache remedy. Some of the most common lifestyle factors that cause headaches are stress, lack of sleep, alcohol consumption, skipped meals, and poor posture.^iv If any of these factors sound familiar, work on identifying how you can change your lifestyle. Stressed out? Try relaxation techniques or seek out a therapist or counselor. Not sleeping enough? Go to bed earlier and make sure to practice good sleep hygiene. If you’re always on the go and find yourself skipping meals, make sure to keep healthy snacks on hand.
 

To learn more about causes and remedies for headaches, visit the headaches section on our website.