Tips for relieving tension headaches

Massage, herbal baths, getting enough sleep, walking, and appropriate swimming can help prevent and reduce tension headaches.

Tension headaches, also known as muscle tension headaches, are common and occur in people who are frequently stressed.

According to Dr. Pham Ngoc Danh Khoa, MD, MSc, Department of Neurology , Center for Neuroscience, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, the disease is not dangerous and can resolve on its own; however, the frequent or severe pain affects the patient's quality of life.

People suffering from tension headaches can reduce stress and alleviate pain with some of the tips below.

Relax by resting in the dark, quiet, meditating, practicing yoga, and deep breathing; these practices help reduce stress and prevent headaches.

Massage helps relax muscles and relieve headaches. When massaging, focus on areas that feel tense or sore, such as the neck, shoulders, and back.

Rest and get enough sleep: Patients should take advantage of opportunities to rest, get 7-8 hours of sleep each day, and avoid staying up too late, which can lead to sleep deprivation, stress, and headaches.

Regular physical activity such as walking, cycling, and swimming not only benefits overall health but also reduces stress and alleviates tension headaches.

Bathing or soaking your feet in hot water with herbs helps relax muscles and reduce headaches. This therapy helps refresh the body and mind, improve blood circulation, and prevent many other diseases.

Avoid stress-inducing factors and headaches such as stimulants, alcohol, coffee, and irritating foods like those high in salt, fat, oil, and processed foods.

A healthy diet contributes to reduced inflammation and improved overall health, thereby avoiding the risk of tension headaches. Everyone should eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals, which are good for your health. Photo: Anh Chi — Fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals, which are good for your health. Photo: *Anh Chi*

Certain natural extracts, such as those from blueberries and ginkgo biloba, help increase blood flow to the brain, improve nerve connections, and reduce headaches and insomnia.

According to Doctor Danh Khoa, reducing stress is the most important thing for patients because it is the main cause. Patients need to adjust and resolve the problems in their lives and work that are causing them stress.

Unusual headaches can be a sign of serious conditions such as cerebral ischemia, hypertension, brain tumors, meningitis, etc. Patients should go to a hospital with a neurology department for examination, screening, and early treatment.

Peaceful

Readers can ask questions about neurological disorders here for doctors to answer.

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