Sometimes doing simple things such as taking a shower or drinking a tall glass of water will get rid of a tension headache. However, there are plenty of other ways to decrease the number of tension headaches a person gets or reduce their intensity. Some or all of these remedies may work to relieve headache pain.
Relaxation Techniques
Meditation, yoga and biofeedback help relieve pain and reduce the frequency of tension headaches, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Relaxation techniques take the strain off muscles in the neck. Good posture also keeps the muscles from tensing up. Biofeedback helps people control muscle tension by using a monitoring device that enables them to see and improve their heart and blood pressure rates, thereby reducing tension.
Massage
Massage techniques help to relieve muscle tension to provide relief from headache pain. Massage can be done by a massage therapist or by self-massaging the muscles of the head, neck and shoulders using the fingertips. Massage oils also provide relief through aromatherapy, according to LoveToKnow.com. Relaxing oil scents include lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary, jasmine and peppermint.
Medication
Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually effective at treating tension headaches, but people should not use them more than two days a week, warns the UMMC. Too much medication can cause a rebound effect of more headaches. Prescription medicine may work if over-the-counter medication does not help reduce the headache.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods may trigger tension headaches, according to the UMMC. People who do not know what foods cause their headaches may have to eliminate certain foods to see if their headaches are relieved. Foods that may cause headaches include chocolate, products containing caffeine, peanut butter, dairy products, pickled foods, nuts, avocados, bananas, citrus fruits, cheese and foods containing monosodium glutamate.
Herbs
Some herbs hold promise in relieving tension headaches. Peppermint oil can be applied to the forehead for headache relief, the UMMC says. Tiger balm, an ointment used for muscle pain, may also be applied to the forehead for relief from headache pain. Feverfew has been used for headache relief, but it can increase the risk of bleeding. Feverfew should not be used by pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding, notes the UMMC.
Hot and Cold
Placing a heating pad, hot-water bottle or a warm towel on the sore muscles in the back of the neck and upper back can relieve headaches. Ice packs wrapped in a towel or cloth and placed on the forehead also work.
