Essential oils

Description

Causes of headaches
Inflammation or irritation of structures that surround the brain
Infection or dehydration
Changes in circulation and blood flow
Medication reactions, drug abuse and drug withdrawal
Certain foods
Stress
Symptoms of headaches
Tension headaches appear as pain that begins in the back of the head and upper neck, often described as a band-like tightness or pressure. It is not associated with nausea and vomiting.
Migraine headaches manifest as throbbing pain, usually on one side of the head. They can be intense enough to prevent you from completing simple tasks. Migraine attacks can cause vision problems, oversensitivity to light and nausea.
Cluster headaches occur periodically with pain-free periods of months or years in between. The pain is usually excruciating and located around or behind one eye. This type of headache affects men more often.
How to treat headaches or migraines
For headaches and migraines
Headaches occur in the forehead, temples and back of the head, causing painful pressure or aching. Migraines are typically more intense and severe, and can cause pain behind one of your eyes or ears, sensitivity to light or sound, and nausea.

Home remedies for headaches or migraines
Rest and hydration
Getting enough rest and staying hydrated is one of the first steps to treating a headache. Most patients with migraine headaches get much relief after resting in a dark room and falling asleep.

Sooth pain with a cold compress
Wrap an ice pack in a cloth and apply it to the neck or head area. This helps decrease inflammation, slows nerve conduction, and constricts blood vessels, all of which contribute to relieving the headache.

Massage
A gentle massage may also help to relieve some of the tension in your temples or neck. Maintain pressure for 7 – 15 seconds, then repeat.

Essential oils
If you have a migraine, inhaling lavender essential oil for 15 minutes may help to ease the pain. Apply it to the temples or breathe directly over the bottle.

Magnesium
Magnesium deficiency has been found to be common in people who get frequent migraine headaches. Taking oral magnesium citrate supplements may help in reducing both the frequency and severity of migraine headaches.

Coffee or tea
Beverages containing caffeine, such as coffee or tea, may provide headache relief. Caffeine improves mood, increases alertness and constricts blood vessels. These actions help relieve headache symptoms.

When to see a doctor?
Generally, a headache is not an indicator of a severe medical disorder. However, you should consult a doctor if you experience sudden, severe pain, or if your headache is accompanied by:

Weakness, dizziness or loss of balance
Difficulty speaking
Seizures
Blurry vision
Fever, shortness of breath, a stiff neck or rash
Nausea or vomiting