Headache remedies

REGISTERED nutritionist Dora Walsh explains the typical types of pain associated with headaches and migraines and how to soothe them...

TENSION HEADACHE

“The most common type of headache is called a tension headache,” says Dora. “It’s usually characterised by a dull, pressured pain on both sides of the head and forehead - and you may also feel it in the shoulders and neck.”

“It’s important to note that if you’re suffering with any type of headache, ensure you’re drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and maintain consistent blood sugar levels by eating regular meals.”

If you regularly get headaches at work, it might be time to assess both your workload and your computer set up, as Dora explains that muscle contractions can often be made worse by staring at a screen for too long, poor posture or emotional stress.

HEAD PAIN THAT’S SIMPLY THROBBING

A severe throbbing pain in your head is usually a probably a signal you have a migraine coming on.

“Scientists have discovered that the hormones serotonin and oestrogen may cause inflammation of blood vessels, leading to the pulsing pain,” says Dora.

Walsh explains that while the cause of headaches and migraines are still a bit of a mystery, it’s clear that certain foods may trigger them. Try and keep a food diary to record the food and how you feel afterwards.

HEADACHES THAT CAUSE VISION PROBLEMS

If you’re experiencing lines that cross your vision or patches are blurry, then you may be experiencing an aura - a symptom that often precedes the pain of a migraine.

“Magnesium deficiency has been linked to headaches and migraines. You can try by increasing magnesium-rich foods to your diet, like nuts and seeds, while eggs and milk are also good sources.”

HEADACHES AND NAUSEA

People who regularly experience gastrointestinal symptoms have a higher rate of headaches, and migraines may actually slow down the digestive system.

“Digestive delay caused by migraines is called ‘gastric stasis’ and may be a result of increased activity of the nervous system, which can occur when a migraine hits,” says Dora.

To help relieve the nausea, gently sipping water, ginger or peppermint tea, and try nibbling on neutral foods such as dry crackers or toast.

Migraine sufferers that experience severe physical effects should always speak to a pharmacist or their GP.