Many people in Tucker, GA deal with headaches on a daily basis. Some experience headache symptoms, such as mild discomfort, while others have symptoms that are flat out unbearable. Headaches vary as there are several types, including cluster headaches that happen in groups or “clusters”; tension headaches, which are the most common; and migraines, which are often moderate-to severe in pain. Although there are many traditional medications that are targeted to treat the symptoms of headaches, there are several natural treatments in existence as well, such as chiropractic care. Here are some home remedies that have been proven to be effective at naturally treating headaches. There are treatments for headaches offered by chiropractors in Tucker, GA that you can access.
Get Plenty of Water
Dehydration can cause headaches to develop in just about anybody. Studies have proven that chronic dehydration is a common culprit of tension headaches as well as migraines.
If your headaches are bothering you because of inadequate hydration, you may be able to experience relief by drinking water. Drinking a few glasses can bring relief naturally in anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours.
If you are prone to dehydration, try to get enough water throughout the day (at least 6 to 8 8-ounce glasses) to keep those headaches from coming back.
Limit Alcohol
Although an occasional alcoholic drink may not cause headaches in many people, some individuals who are susceptible to frequent headaches can actually be triggered by drinking alcohol. In fact, alcohol has been proven to be linked with both cluster and tension headaches in people.
Alcohol is a vasodilator, which means it widens the blood vessels while allowing blood to flow more freely. Some people in Tucker experience headaches from vasodilation. Plus, alcohol also acts as a diuretic, which causes fluid and electrolyte loss by way of frequent urination. This loss of fluid can also cause dehydration which can cause or intensify symptoms of headaches.
Take Magnesium
Magnesium is a vital mineral that is important for numerous functions within the human body, including nerve transmission and blood sugar control. Magnesium is also a safe remedy for headaches.
Interestingly, research has shown that magnesium deficiency is common in individuals who experience migraine headaches, in comparison to those who don’t have them.
Try taking 600 mg of oral magnesium citrate daily to reduce the severity and frequency of migraine headaches. Of course, we always recommend talking with your doctor before taking any form of medication or supplement.
Avoid High-Histamine Foods
Histamine is a chemical that is found naturally in our bodies that plays a key role our digestive, nervous and immune systems. Some studies have suggested that consuming foods containing histamine may contribute to migraines in individuals who are sensitive to the chemical. Some people cannot properly excrete histamine due to an impaired function of the necessary enzymes that are responsible for breaking the chemical down.
Foods high in histamines to avoid include wine, beer, aged cheeses, smoked fish, fermented foods and cured meats. If you cut these foods from your diet, you may be able to find relief from frequent headaches while living in Tucker.
Use a Cold Compress for Pain
A cold or frozen compress might be able to reduce headache symptoms. Simply apply the compress to the neck or head region to decrease inflammation and slow nerve conduction. This process can also help to constrict blood vessels. Each of these processes can help to reduce the pain caused by headaches.
One study examined the effect of cold gel packs applied to the head in 28 women who suffered from migraine pain. The results showed that symptoms were significantly reduced.
Avoid Nitrates and Nitrites
Nitrates and nitrites are food additives or preservatives that are added to foods such as sausages, hot dogs, lunch meat and bacon to keep them free from bacterial growth and to retain their freshness. Foods that contain these ingredients have been proven to trigger headaches in some people who are sensitive to them. Nitrites may lead to headaches because it can cause the blood vessels in the body to expand. Limit the amount of processed meats that you eat to minimize the amount of nitrites your body is exposed to. You can also look for nitrite-free product alternatives whenever possible.
