5 Ways to Stop Headaches: Follow These Simple Practices for Relief Without Medication

Closer shares five methods to help stop headaches without using medication.

Try Exercise: “Good things come to those who exercise, including headache sufferers,” say the folks from Ohio’s Premier Health. “Exercise can release tension in the body and have a positive impact on body chemistry (like boosting oxygen levels), which in turn can decrease the risk of tension headaches.” Exercise can also release feel-good endorphins, which block pain signals.

Eat Right: Per experts at UnityPoint Health: “Some studies suggest certain foods prevent and reduce headache pain. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish, act as an anti-inflammatory and can reduce headache pain. Potassium, found in potatoes and bananas, also has properties that can relieve headaches.” Moreover, keeping well-hydrated is important to stave off pain as well.

Get Sleep: “Lack of sleep and disordered sleep are common headache triggers,” explains Dr. Vernon Williams, a neurologist and director of L.A.’s Center for Sports Neurology and Pain Medicine at Cedars Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute. “Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and getting enough have been shown to help lessen headache occurrences and severity for many sufferers.”

Regulate Caffeine: According to the Mayo Clinic, “caffeine may help curb headaches. But heavy daily caffeine use can lead to headaches. Generally, more than about four cups of coffee can cause headaches. Regular caffeine use also increases the risk of headaches. Even quitting caffeine can cause headaches. This may happen whether you quit suddenly or cut back gradually.”

Relieve Stress: “Physical and psychological relaxation therapies can help stave off tension headaches, so long as you practice these techniques regularly,” says Harvard Medical School. Physical approaches include massage or applying a heating pad to your neck and shoulders to relax the muscles, while psychological tactics include meditation, yoga and repetitive prayer.