Your Guide to Conquering Headaches Naturally

We’ve all been there—that moment when a headache strikes, and suddenly your day comes to a screeching halt.

For seniors, headaches can be more than just a nuisance; they can significantly impact quality of life.

But before you reach for that pill bottle, let’s explore some of the most common types of headaches and natural ways to find relief.

Tension headaches are the most frequent culprit, affecting up to 78% of adults. These present as a dull, constant pain on both sides of the head, often accompanied by tenderness in the neck and shoulders. For seniors, these can be triggered by stress, poor posture, or even eye strain.

Migraine headaches, while often associated with younger people, can persist into older age. They typically involve intense throbbing pain on one side of the head, along with sensitivity to light and sound. For some seniors, migraines may become less severe but more frequent.

Hypnic headaches, sometimes called “alarm clock” headaches, are particularly relevant for older adults. These rare headaches wake you up at night with mild to moderate throbbing pain, usually on both sides of the head.

And sinus headaches, characterized by pain around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead, can be more problematic for seniors due to age-related changes in the immune system.

Fortunately there are ways to combat each of these, without relying on pharmaceutical solutions. Here are some of our favorites…

Magnesium: This mineral has been found to help prevent and treat migraines. Foods rich in magnesium include dark leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains. A supplement of 400-600mg daily may also help.

Feverfew: This herb has long been used for headache relief. It’s available as a supplement, but always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new herbal remedy.

Peppermint oil: Applied to the temples, this essential oil can provide cooling relief for tension headaches.

Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can help with headache pain. Try sipping ginger tea or taking a supplement.

Lifestyle habits can also play a crucial role in preventing and managing headaches:

• Stay hydrated: Dehydration is a common headache trigger, especially in older adults.
• Practice good sleep hygiene: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Manage stress: Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga.
• Maintain good posture: Poor posture can lead to tension headaches. Consider ergonomic adjustments to your living space.
• Get your eyes checked: Vision changes can contribute to headaches, so regular eye exams are important.

Remember, while these natural approaches can be effective, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider if you’re experiencing frequent or severe headaches. They could be a sign of an underlying condition that needs attention.

To naturally relieving headaches,

Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team

P.S. Soothing light STOPS pounding headaches? Get the details here.

Source:

Gill, S. (2020, January 30). What are the different types of headaches? Medicalnewstoday.com; Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320767#hangover