4 Ways to Get Relief the Next Time a Headache Hits

When it comes to headaches, there are different kinds — and different causes. There are tension headaches, cluster headaches, migraines and more. (Not-so-fun fact: There are actually 150 different types of headaches.) Headaches can be brought about by a variety of triggers, including stress, dehydration and lack of sleep. They can be merely uncomfortable, or they can be downright debilitating. 

But for all of the differences, there’s one thing pretty much everyone can agree on, and that’s the fact that when you’re suffering from a headache — no matter which type, no matter how how little or how much it hurts — you want relief, and you want it fast. The good news is there are plenty of over-the-counter options available to help relieve the pain caused by common headaches.

In many cases, anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen can help. Relief may also come from essential oils and cold or hot compresses. Sleeping, fresh air and breathing exercises also help some people. 

Of course, it’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider if you’re experiencing headaches (or any other health problem) — especially frequent or reoccurring ones — or thinking about taking a new medication. But for occasional headaches, consider trying one of these treatments you can use at home. 

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