A headache is a pain in any part of the head. It may be a sharp pain or a dull, throbbing one. Nerves inside the skull are responsible for most types of headaches. The first step to curing a headache is to identify the type of headache that you are experiencing. There are 4 main types: tension headache, migraine headache, cluster headache, and sinus headaches. Tension headaches typically do not have any other symptoms besides head pain and usually occur around the temples and forehead area. Migraine headaches affect individuals with intense head pain and an intense sensitivity to light and sound. Cluster headaches only affect the eyes and typically occur over a very short period of time. Sinus headaches can be identified by intense pressure around your sinuses and often do not go away until they are relieved by medication.

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After you have identified your headache type, the next step would be to try and identify if there are any environmental factors that may trigger your headaches. For example, do you eat certain foods before having a headache? Do you experience them while at work or school? Is it happening when certain people are present? Are they occurring in response to stress/anxiety? If you can identify a specific trigger, the best course of treatment would be to avoid it as much as possible. For example, if you eat chocolate and experience a headache within an hour after having some, then the next time you have a headache eat something else to see if there is any correlation. If you can identify a specific environmental factor, it may be best to avoid being exposed to that thing. For example, if you get cluster headaches in response to bright lights and sunlight, then during an attack best not go outside or wear sunglasses.

During a headache, it can be very difficult to take care of yourself but try your best. Do you have a specific activity that makes you feel better? Drinking a hot beverage or a cold one? Doing deep breathing exercises? Exercise is great for headaches because it stimulates neurotransmitters which can relieve pain and relax the body. The most important thing to remember is to take it easy and not push yourself too hard. Next, if none of these steps work, try over-the-counter medication. Usually, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce pain and inflammation around your head and neck area. Do not take acetaminophen as this may cause your liver more harm than good. With tension headaches, the cause is usually anxiety or stress. Meditation and deep breathing exercises can also help reduce stress and anxiety and give you a chance to step back from your day.