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Although headaches and migraines are separate illnesses we are discussing them together as they both come with similar symptoms and just in case you are unsure which you suffer with, we are talking about changes that you can help to ease both Headaches and Migraines.

If you are a sufferer of headaches and migraines one simple thing to start with, to help ease the attacks you get, is do not skip breakfast; this can cause glucose to fluctuate because this alters the food supply to the brain which means it can bring on a bout.

Headaches/Migraines may also bring about other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and even diarrhoea.

Stress is also known to cause headaches as well as tension and anxiety so try to keep relaxed.

Something else to consider could be you are sensitive to certain foods, so it could be useful to monitor what you eat; keep a diary and try to match it to when you have a headache or migraine.  

Good Foods/Drinks:

• Water
• Flaxseed - can also be taken as a supplement.  

Bad Foods/Drinks:

• Caffeine
• Chocolate
• Dairy
• Alcohol
• Citrus Fruits
• Wheat Products 

Supplements:

• Magnesium
• Evening Primrose Oil
• Omega 3
• Valerian - helps relieve anxiety 
• Feverfew - inflammatory, can reduce the severity and frequency.
• White willow
• Lemon Balm Tea - soothes nervous system 

Alternative Remedies:

Acupuncture - one of the team tried it for a completely different reason, but as he lay on the bed and needles were inserted throughout his body he felt relaxed, as soon as the needle went into his head he felt all the pressure release from his body, and the headache he was suffering with completely vanished. Although the headache did return, and this was only a one off visit, it may be worth trying a few treatments out. 

Sports Physiotherapist - It can be difficult to find a good physio, but we cam across a lady who is very hands on, she tackled the back and did inflict pain, she explained that she removed lactic acid which had been causing the headaches and unbelievably this has been the best treatment to date. It only took one visit for the headaches to go, they did come back about 5 weeks later so returned and have had nothing for about two months. Please be aware not every therapist is the same and not all are hands on, so it would be worth having a chat with to see how they treat their patients.     

How to help yourself:

1. Eat regularly and choose foods which release sugar into the system slowly. 

2. Try putting a cold damp cloth at the back of you neck - this may help ease pain.

3. Reduce stress or anything that causes tension and sparks a migraine.

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We would definitely advise you speak to your health practitioner before you do anything else, and remember, make a note of when you are getting headaches to understand what is triggering them, keep a diary, so if you visit the doctor you have evidence. You never know you may need a scan to find the cause.

Bibliography:

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Last Updated: 6th December 2011.