Wellness 101 Show - How to Stop Tension Headaches
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ส.ค. 2024
- And now it’s time for another Wellness 101…How to Stop Tension Headaches…presented by St. Luke’s University Health Network.
Hey guys…Mr. Wellness here and today we are talking Tension Headaches…otherwise known as stress headaches!
Tension headaches affect approximately 80% of adults in the U.S and are usually triggered by a single stressful situation or a buildup of stress. Sufferers of tension headaches experience pressure or tightness around the back the head, neck and forehead area. There are two types of tension headaches: Episodic (happen fewer than 15 days per month) and Chronic (happen more than 15 days per month).
It’s best to treat tension headaches as soon as your symptoms arrive and are still mild. Over the counter pain relivers like Tylenol and Advil or doctor prescribed medications like Naproxen and Ketorolac can be useful…however, keep in mind that medications do NOTcure headaches and overtime, might not help as much as they once did. If you genuinely want to make an impact on your tension headaches, then you’re going to have to make some lifestyle changes. And we’ve got the steps to help keep the pain off your brain!
STEP ONE: Keep a Headache Journal
Keeping a headache diary helps you pinpoint your triggers and will help your St. Luke’s doctor come up with an effective treatment plan for you. The next time you get a headache, jot down things like: date, time, weather, location of the pain, food you have eaten, and any stressors that may have set it off (noise, smoke, crowds etc).
STEP TWO: Proper Posture
Keep your shoulders back, head level, tighten your belly and buttocks and avoid slouching. A good strong stance will help keep your muscles from tensing up!
STEP THREE: Hydrate
We now know that dehydration is intrinsically linked with tension headaches. It’s best to drink several glasses of water a day even if you’re not thirsty. Think of it as lubricating your mind!
STEP FOUR: Limit Pain Relievers
While over the counter medication can help with reliving a tension headache…taking them too often can lead to a “rebound headache”…in where your body has a withdrawal reaction when the pain reliver wears off, prompting you to take more medicine…which leads to another headache! To avoid this vicious cycle, try to take the smallest dose possible and only in moderation!
STEP FIVE: Manage Your Stress
At the end of the day…if you want to stop Tension headaches, you have got to get a hold of your stress level. Do things that help you decompress like: exercise regularly, mediate, get a massage, read a good book, grab some tea or coffee with a friend, and make sure you get enough sleep. It’s much easier to deal with stress…when you’re relaxed.
Folks…most of us have experienced the occasional tension headache from time to time. They are definitely not fun and can feel like your noodle is being squeezed in a vice. If you suffer from tension headaches and are having a difficult time getting them under control…don’t hesitate to reach out to St. Luke’s Neurology Associates. These talented doctors will help you narrow down your triggers and help you come on with a treatment plan that is right for you! Don’t forget to smash that like button and subscribe to our TH-cam channel for more Wellness 101!
Ace-t-amino phe-n
Thanks St. Luke’s. During stressful days at work I will meditate get a massage and go for a walk to get some tea. Brilliant advice. Smashing that thumbs down button.
How to stop tension headache: Don't be tense!