Three tips to help prevent tension headaches

Ignoring the pain from tension headaches only increases the risk that such headaches occur more frequently, experts say. — dpa

Everyone has headaches sometimes, but for some people, they are a regular occurrence.

If you suffer from frequent tension headaches, then try and avoid these three things.

Mistake 1: Just ignoring the pain

Doing nothing and hoping your headache will just go away on its own is not the answer.

That only increases the risk that tension headaches becoming more frequent, and even chronic, says the German Brain Foundation.

Over time, the pain centres in the brain can become permanently irritated and the pain takes on a life of its own.

Another disadvantage to ignoring the pain is that it can spread and cause tension in your neck and shoulders too.

Mistake 2: Not dealing with the trigger

Sure, you can take painkillers and your headache will go away, but if you want to get a lasting grip on them, you need to figure out the triggers and tackle them as far as possible.

Maybe you don’t drink enough water.

Or your daily life may be too demanding and you don’t take enough breaks, so your body responds regularly with pressing headaches.

If you want to prevent headaches, try incorporating relaxation exercises into your daily routine, the foundation says.

And regular endurance sports can also help – preferably for at least 30 to 45 minutes three days a week.

Mistake 3: Taking painkillers too often

Painkillers like aspirin, ibuprofen or paracetamol are great when it comes to getting rid of a headache, but do track how often you are taking them.

Headache medication should be taken no more than 10 days a month, say the German specialists.

If you take them more often, you risk getting a headache as a side effect, creating a spiral of pain that is hard to escape.

As an alternative to tablets, apply some peppermint oil to your temples or a cold compress to the back of your neck. – dpa