Whether it be work related stress, or tension related to domestic affair, anxiety has become a part and parcel of life. Our friends and family might also be adding onto the tension, rather than abating it. All these stresses then have a dire impact on our physical health, with tension headaches being one of the consequences.
What is tension headache?
Tension headache is characterized by pain in the head, neck and eyes. It can be moderate or mild, depending on the intensity of the symptoms. Whereas tension headache can be acute, occurring once or so in the month, it can also be chronic. The headaches can also feel like contractions, as the pain is pulsating.
‘Tension’ headache can be also a misnomer. These headaches can be caused by certain foods and activities as well, and not just stress. Technology may also be behind the headache; usage for screen for long hours, especially at odd angle also can cause the headache. Likewise, cold temperature can also be the reason for the headaches. Some people can also have headache that turn into migraine.
If the headaches are cause due to poor posture, you might consider going to a Chiropractor in Lahore. Otherwise, if the pain is persistent and chronic, it is best that you get an evaluation from your doctor lest it be a harbinger of something much more serious.
Getting treatment for the tension headaches
It may very well be the tension headaches are just that, headaches, and not something grave. There are easy ways that you can get rid of the headaches.
OTC pain killers
The most convenient way forward is by using OTC painkillers. These are also considered as the first line of treatment when accosted with a headache. Aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen are common drugs used in such cases.
However, do not overdo the painkillers. Too much can cause tolerance to the drug and gastric issues as well. Thus, also explore other treatment options, especially when the headaches are chronic.
Stress management
Tension headaches are most often caused due to stress. Therefore, to fix the chronic episodes of headaches, limit your stress.
A challenging task it may be but mitigating stress it vital for overall health as well. Breathing techniques, yoga and exercise are great for relieving stress. Moreover, evaluate your stress triggers, and then avoiding those circumstances. Socializing and laughing are also effective for stress release.
Hot and Cold packs
Hot and cold packs are effective for relaxing muscles, which in turns helps to curb the headaches.
Hot packs can be bought, or you can also use hot water bottle. Similarly, you can use cold pack or, wrap ice in washcloth and apply to the area.
Relaxing techniques
Relaxation techniques have multiple benefits. They relax the muscles, and thus help to prevent the headache to begin with. The caveat however is that these need to be done daily, or at least regularly for them to be effective.
Moreover, pain from the headache can also cause the muscles to clench, which is then addressed by these techniques.
Stretching and exercising are the perfect antidote. You can also take up mindfulness and yoga for soothe your body and prevent tension from accumulating to the point of headache.
Counselling
Anxiety and stress may not be remedied by breathing exercises alone. The issue may be even more deep founded and complex. To remedy the source of tension and not just the headache that it leads to, it is beneficial to seek therapy.
A counsellor will not only help to battle through the root of the issue but give effective coping tips so that you are able to get rid of the mental and physical toll that issue takes on your body.
Moderating usage of technology
We are highly reliant on technology. For many of us, it’s our livelihood. But despite technology being a necessity, its usage needs to be regulated, especially when it is the cause of headaches.
Alongside eliminating screen time where possible, you should also check your posture when you sit on the computer. Keep it at a distance, and slightly below the line of sight. As you use your phones, you should refrain from bending your neck too much. Instead, lift your phone so that its directly across your eyes.
Acupuncture
A traditional Chinese remedy, acupuncture is effective for different bodily aches, including tension headaches. Even though it involves inserting needles at specific points in the body, it is not painful per se.
Moreover, research has shown acupuncture to be beneficial for migraines as well. For people who tend to have tension headaches that turn into the painful migraines, this is especially useful.
Massage therapy
Massage is great for relieving tension in the body. It relaxes the muscles and soothes out the knots. It also helps to lower stress levels in the body. As your physical body relaxes, so does your mind.
The overall impact is beneficial for getting rid of tension headaches.
Posture is the name of the game
A good posture is also useful for remedying headaches. Bad posture puts pressure on the neck and spine, resulting in aches. This can be easily fixed by improving posture.
Chiropractic Treatments
Chiropractors can also be of help with the tension headaches. They can perform spinal manipulation, which not only improves the symptoms of the headache, but is as it is also helpful for remedying neck aches, that tend to accompany the headaches.
Moreover, the treatments dispensed by chiropractor also helps to reduce stress on the system. Thus, be sure to contact your Chiropractor in Karachi for not just chiropractic therapy, but nutritional advice as well for a holistic healing approach.
