Headaches are a common condition that almost everyone experiences at some point, whether occasionally or frequently. The severity of headache pain can vary from person to person and depends on the underlying cause.

There are nearly 150 types of headaches, including tension headaches, migraines, hunger headaches, and stress-related headaches. Additionally, some headaches are linked to specific health conditions, such as dehydration, sinus infections, and high blood pressure. (1)

In this article, we’ll explore the best medical and natural remedies for headaches, with a focus on the most common types: tension headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches.

Quick and Effective Steps to Relieve Headaches 

To properly manage headaches, here are some recommended steps to help ease and relieve the pain when a headache strikes:

1. Pain Relievers

For mild to moderate headaches, common over-the-counter painkillers can be an effective solution. These include: (2)

• Paracetamol (Panadol, Adol, Fevadol): A widely used, one of the safest, and effective pain relievers.
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):
  
  • Ibuprofen (Brufen, Doloraz, Taskin)
  • Naproxen (Proxen)
  • Diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam)

Important: Always follow the dosage instructions on the medication packaging and avoid excessive use. Overusing pain relievers can lead to rebound headaches (caused by frequent painkiller intake). If you find yourself needing pain relievers more than twice a week, it’s best to consult a doctor.

2. Natural Remedies

In addition to medication, several natural methods can help alleviate headaches: (2)(3)

• Drink Water: Dehydration is a common cause of headaches, staying well-hydrated can help relieve headache pain and prevent it from occurring.
• Have a Light Snack: Low blood sugar or a lack of energy may trigger headaches. Eating a small, nutritious snack can help ease the pain.
• Caffeine: A small amount of coffee or tea may help relieve headaches. However, be cautious with excessive caffeine intake, as sudden withdrawal can lead to headaches.
• Use Compresses: Cold compresses on the head can reduce inflammation and numb the pain, while warm compresses on the neck and shoulders can help relax tense muscles.

• Take a Warm Shower: Helps relax muscles and reduce headache discomfort.
• Try Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, head and neck massages, meditation, stretching, yoga, and aromatherapy may help alleviate tension and ease headache pain.
• Reduce Light Exposure: Bright or harsh lighting can worsen headaches, especially migraines. Dimming the lights, closing curtains, or limiting screen time can help reduce headache intensity.

Treatment for Severe Headaches

If a headache is severe and  persistent it is important to consult a doctor. In such cases, stronger pain medications may be prescribed, and in some instances, muscle relaxants may be recommended for intense tension headaches. (2)

For more severe headache types, such as migraines and cluster headaches, additional specialized treatments may be required: 

Migraine Treatment

Migraines are one of the most complex types of headaches, often accompanied by intense pain and additional symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition:  (4)

Taking OTC pain relievers at the onset of an attack can help prevent the pain from worsening.

Prescription migraine medications, such as triptans (e.g., Imigran), work by blocking pain pathways in the brain and reducing inflammation in nerve pathways. These medications act quickly—most patients experience relief within 20–30 minutes, with symptoms disappearing completely within two hours.

Cluster Headache Treatment

Cluster headaches are among the most severe types of headaches and require rapid treatment, Options include: Triptan medications, similar to those used for migraines, but often administered as injections for faster and more effective relief.

100% oxygen therapy, which can quickly reduce symptoms by providing immediate relief. (5)

When Should You See a Doctor?

It is important to consult a doctor if you experience: (1)

• A sudden and severe headache
• A headache that does not improve with pain relievers
• Frequent or persistent headaches that worsen over time
• A headache that occurred immediately after an accident or head injury.
• A headache that is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as: shortness of breath, stiff neck, confusion, difficulty speaking ,blurred vision. These could indicate a more serious underlying condition.

Do you have frequent or severe headaches? Consult our neurologists for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

References

1. Clevelandclinic - Headaches
2. Harvard Health - Headache
3. Webmd - How to Get Rid of a Headache
4. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke - Migraine 
5. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia - Cluster headache