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Headache Headache Basics

Some Simple Remedies to Ease Chronic Headaches


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Summary & Participants

Severe headaches strike one in five Americans. Learn simple remedies that can be put to use in easing your headaches.

Medically Reviewed On: July 21, 2009

Webcast Transcript


DR. NANCY SNYDERMAN: Hi, I’m Dr. Nancy Snyderman with this week’s Healthful Hint.

One in five Americans suffers from severe headaches. If you’re one of them and painkillers don’t always do the trick, here are a few things that may bring you some relief.

One simple remedy is to apply ice or a cold compress to your forehead when the pain starts. On the other hand, heat might soothe the headache if it’s caused by a stiff neck. Try putting a heating pad to the back of your head or taking a hot shower to relax tightened muscles.

For a less intense headache, try massaging the spot on the back of your head where your spine meets your skull. Squeezing the web of skin between your thumb and index finger sometimes chases away the pain.

If headaches strike when you’re doing something strenuous like lifting weights or jogging, you may want to consult a doctor. Headaches brought on by exercise can be a symptom of a more serious condition.

With Healthful Hints, I’m Dr. Nancy Snyderman.

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