How to Relieve & Prevent Headaches & Migraines Fast

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The best natural and medically-approved treatments to soothe and stop headache pain
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Is there anything worse than a headache? Whether you have a minor throb or a debilitating migraine, they can be a mood buster. But what if we told you there were plenty of ways to help the pain fade away? In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about getting rid of a headache, from at-home care to over-the-counter medications. With our help, you’ll be able to soothe your head and prevent future headaches from coming on.

Best Ways to Stop a Headache Fast

  1. Hold an ice pack against your forehead to relieve pain.
  2. Apply a warm compress or take a warm shower.
  3. Drink a large glass of water or have a small caffeinated drink.
  4. Dim the lights and avoid bright screens.
  5. Get some rest and sleep the headache off.
  6. Take over-the-counter pain relievers
  7. Try diffusing lavender essential oil.
1

Know the type of headache you’re experiencing.

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  1. Not all headaches have the same symptoms or causes.
    Knowing what type of headache(s) you’re experiencing makes it easier to choose the best treatment and avoid triggers. Refer to the list below to help determine what type of headache you may have:[1]
    • Tension headaches: These are the most common, occurring less than 15 days a month. Often triggered by stress, eye strain, or insomnia, they can cause head pain that lasts around 30 minutes.[2]
    • Migraines: These can last from hours to days. They usually cause throbbing pain and sensitivity to light and sound. If you’re having a headache that lasts anywhere between 4 to 72 hours, that’s a migraine.
    • Sinus headaches: These are a common symptom of sinus infections, colds, and seasonal allergies and cause pressure and pain around the nose, eyes, and forehead.[3]
    • Rebound headaches: These are caused by the frequent use of pain relievers or anti-migraine drugs.
    • Cluster headaches: These are rare and tend to occur in cycles. They’re classifiable by intense pain around one eye or side of the head.
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2

Drink a large glass of water.

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  1. Not drinking enough water can cause headaches.
    [4] Studies have found that headache symptoms can be caused or exasperated by dehydration.[5] So, try to drink a large cup of water when you have a headache, and aim to drink at least 6 cups (1.4 liters) of water a day to prevent them from coming on.[6]
    • Carry a filled reusable water bottle with you wherever you go so you’re reminded to drink more water.
    • Try to drink room temperature water if you’re prone to migraines, as extremely cold or iced water could trigger symptoms.[7]
3

Place an ice pack on your eyes or head.

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  1. A cold compress...
    A cold compress can help ease headache and migraine discomfort. When you stub your toe or take a nasty fall, you hold an ice pack to your bruise, right? Well, you can treat a headache similarly. An ice pack or cold cloth can decrease inflammation and constrict your blood vessels, easing the constant throbbing of a headache.[8]
    • Use the cold compress for around 25 minutes, then take a break and see how you feel.[9]
    • Try using a cooling eye mask to block out light and soothe pressure.
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4

Take a warm bath or shower.

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  1. Warm water can help relax tense muscles and open your sinuses.
    Relaxing the muscles around your head and neck may help ease tension headache symptoms, while warm, moist air can reduce sinus pressure.[10] Draw a warm bubble bath or step into a hot shower when your head hurts to find fast relief.[11]
5

Dim the lights and turn off screens.

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  1. A dark, distraction-free room may help soothe your symptoms.
    When your head starts pounding, step away from any screens, shut the blinds, turn off the lights, and rest. Bright lights can trigger migraines and worsen headache symptoms, so sitting in the dark can bring a bit of relief.[12]
    • If turning off or dimming the lights isn’t an option, close your eyes or place your head under a blanket or pillow to make your own dark, quiet space.
    • Try using an eye mask to keep things nice and dark no matter what.
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6

Take a nap.

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  1. Getting enough sleep...
    Getting enough sleep can reduce headache symptoms.[13] Sleep truly is one of the best medicines out there, and it’s completely free! When you have a headache, try napping for an hour or so to help your brain rest and recharge.[14]
    • Make sure to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night, as sleep deprivation can trigger headaches.
    • Limit your screen time before bed so you can wind down before closing your eyes.
    • Try to stick to a regular sleep routine, going to bed and waking up at the same time each day (even on weekends).[15]
7

Relax with meditation or yoga.

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  1. Stress is one of the leading causes of tension headaches.
    [16] If you’re feeling overwhelmed and notice a headache coming on, take a moment to step back and breathe. Yoga and meditation are great ways to do this, as they allow you to go inward and ease any building tension in your body.
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8

Try over-the-counter medications.

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  1. Tylenol...
    Tylenol, ibuprofen, and aspirin are designed to counteract pain. These pain-relieving medications can help you before, during, and after a headache. Some of these even have a headache or migraine-specific variations that can target symptoms faster. Simply follow the instructions on the package or talk to your doctor about the right dosage for you.[20]
    • Try to take these medications at the first sign of a headache for faster relief.[21]
    • Limit your medication use to 2 days a week, as too much could cause more headaches.

    Warning: Taking medication should never be your first choice or your automatic go-to. Do not rely on medicine all the time, instead maybe lean towards other relieving methods first.

9

Use a lavender essential oil.

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  1. The calming smell...
    The calming smell of lavender has been proven to ease headaches.[22] Believe it or not, diffusing a lavender essential oil into the air or rubbing a diluted mixture under your nose may be enough to reduce your symptoms. Just make sure to use an oil that says “100% pure” or “100% organic” on the label to avoid harsh chemicals and additives.[23]
    • Always purchase essential oils from well-known and reputable companies to ensure you get the best quality item.
    • Dilute lavender oil by mixing it with a carrier oil, like coconut or almond oil, in a 1:1 ratio. This will help prevent burns and rashes, especially if you have sensitive skin.
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10

Drink some caffeine.

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  1. Taking a small amount of caffeine when your headache starts may help.
    Believe it or not, drinking caffeine can help ease your symptoms before they worsen. Combine a serving of caffeinated tea or coffee with some over-the-counter pain medication, and your tension headache may ease itself.[24]
    • Try drinking a tea with ginger in it to ease the nausea and vomiting that may come with more severe headaches.[25]
    • Be careful when it comes to drinking caffeine, as having too much can cause migraines and possibly a caffeine addiction (which has its own type of headache withdrawals).
    • Doctors recommend having within 150 to 200 mg of caffeine a day, so avoid this method if you’ve already hit your daily allowance.[26]
11

Stay hydrated when drinking alcohol.

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  1. Drinking too much alcohol can make you dehydrated.
    Alcohol can cause your body to lose fluid through frequent urination. Hanging out with friends and having a good time is no crime; just make sure you balance your booze with plenty of water, so you don't wake up the next day with a pounding headache. Or, better yet, limit how many alcoholic drinks you have in one night if you know you’re prone to headaches.[27]
    • Opt for food with a high water content while and after you drink, like watermelon, celery, and cucumber, to help you stay hydrated.
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12

Try a magnesium supplement.

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  1. Magnesium deficiencies can cause migraines in adults.
    [28] If you’re experiencing severe headaches, loss of appetite, fatigue, and/or muscle spasms, you may not have enough magnesium in your body. Thankfully, this can easily be fixed with a magnesium supplement or magnesium-rich foods like leafy green vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.[29]
    • Magnesium deficiency is the most common amongst those who have Type 2 Diabetes, Crohn’s Disease, or are taking medications.
    • Talk to your doctor before adding a magnesium supplement to your daily routine, as they’ll be able to tell you the exact dosage you and your body need.
13

Watch what you eat.

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  1. Chocolate, cheese, and processed foods can trigger headaches.
    Now, every body and every person is different, but some foods can induce headache-like symptoms. If you have chronic headaches, try eliminating these foods from your diet one by one to see if and when your headaches lessen or worsen. Here’s what you should consider avoiding:[30]
    • Aged cheese (blue cheese, brie, cheddar, mozzarella)
    • Peanuts
    • Pizza or other tomato-based products
    • Chocolate
    • Potato chips
    • Smoked or dried fish
    • Pickled foods
    • Canned soups
    • Cultured dairy products (sour cream, yogurt)
    • Artificial sweeteners
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14

Exercise regularly.

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  1. At least 30 minutes of exercise a day can prevent headaches.
    When you exercise, your body releases endorphins or happy hormones that block pain signals to the brain. Just a small amount of movement every day can keep your mind and body happy, all while reducing tension or stress-related headaches.[31]
    • Who says you have to go to the gym and lift weights to exercise? Move your body in whatever way that feels good! Maybe that’s dancing, walking, running, or swimming.
15

Try acupressure.

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  1. Pressing specific points on your body can help reduce muscular tension.
    [32] Acupressure has been used for thousands of years to treat ailments, including headaches. The next time your head starts pounding, try silencing the drum using one or more of these trigger points:[33]
    • On your hand: Massage the soft part of your hand in between your index finger and thumb. Apply firm, circular pressure for 4 to 5 seconds.
    • Behind your ear: Locate the mastoid bone just behind your ear, and follow the natural groove in your neck to where the muscles attach to the skull. Apply firm pressure for 4 to 5 seconds while breathing deeply.
    • On your shoulder: Locate the point on your shoulder between your neck and the edge of your shoulder. Using your opposite hand (right hand on the left shoulder, left hand on the right shoulder), pinch the shoulder muscle between your fingers and thumb. Use your index finger to apply firm downward pressure for 4 to 5 seconds.
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16

Try acupuncture.

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  1. Acupuncture can relax triggered nerves that cause headaches.
    Now, this isn’t a cure or quick relief method but a treatment method. Think of it like taking a regular dose of medicine, but you’re going to see an acupuncturist at least once a week instead.[34] Studies have shown that those who undergo regular acupuncture therapy has fewer headaches, so it’s worth giving a try![35]
17

Do weekly massage sessions.

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  1. Regular massages may help reduce the frequency of headaches.
    Some studies have found that weekly massage sessions decreased the frequency of migraines and induced better sleep.[36] With lack of sleep being one of the leading causes of a headache, pampering yourself with a regular massage may be worth a try!
    • Massages alone won’t cure a headache—it’s simply a preventative step—so make sure you try other methods as well.
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18

Visit a chiropractor.

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  1. Spinal manipulation could reduce the pain that triggers chronic headaches.
    Your spine does more than you may think, and if one tiny thing is out of place, it can set everything off! Some people find that a regular visit with a chiropractor helps lessen the severity and consistency of their headaches.[37]
    • Talk to your chiropractor about your headaches and symptoms, as they can pinpoint if and where the problem is in your back or neck.
    • As an alternative, try osteopathic manipulative treatment, which is similar to chiropractic therapy but focuses on improving the body’s overall system.[38]

Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    What's a natural remedy for hormonal headaches?
    Sari Eitches, MBE, MD
    Sari Eitches, MBE, MD
    Integrative Internist
    Dr. Sari Eitches is an Integrative Internist who runs Tower Integrative Health and Wellness, based in Los Angeles, California. She specializes in plant-based nutrition, weight management, women's health, preventative medicine, and depression. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Integrative and Holistic Medicine. She received a BS from the University of California, Berkeley, an MD from SUNY Upstate Medical University, and an MBE from the University of Pennsylvania. She completed her residency at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, NY and served as an attending internist at the University of Pennsylvania.
    Sari Eitches, MBE, MD
    Sari Eitches, MBE, MD
    Integrative Internist
    Expert Answer
    You can try doing deep breathing exercises and meditation to help destress and soothe your headache. Another thing you can try is self-massage or acupressure.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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Tips

  • Not all headaches are the same. If one fix doesn't get rid of your headache, keep trying other solutions until you find one that works.
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Tips from our Readers

  • Wear soft ear plugs that aren't connected by a thin cord to aid in noise cancellation. If you share a room with someone, ask them to please be quiet and to keep the lights dim while you're recovering.
  • Stay away from too much light. If you want to get rid of a headache fast, stay away from electronics and screens. Even the sun can make your headache worse, so try to stay inside and rest.
  • Take a wash cloth and put it under hot water, wring it out so it doesn't drip then lay down and wrap it around your eyes and temples. Heat relaxes muscles and can help reduce pain.
  • If you are just at the start of getting a headache, avoid sitting up too fast when you're lying down. This can make your headache even worse. Take it nice and slow instead.
  • Massage the back of the neck to get the blood flowing. This helps me when I get migraines before they get really bad.
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Warnings

  • Avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen if you have an ulcer or gastrointestinal problems, as they can worsen your symptoms.
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  • Get emergency medical treatment if you have sudden numbness or weakness in your face, arm, or leg, become confused, and/or have trouble speaking or understanding people.
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  • If you experience a fast yet incredibly painful headache that lasts about 5 minutes, this is could be a thunderclap headache, which often signal a serious issue. Contact your doctor immediately.[39]
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References

  1. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9639-headaches#management-and-treatment
  2. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9641-sinus-headaches#management-and-treatment
  3. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9641-sinus-headaches#management-and-treatment
  4. ↑ Sari Eitches, MBE, MD. Sleep Specialist. Expert Interview. 3 April 2020.
  5. ↑ https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/headaches#prevented
  6. ↑ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2908954/
  7. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11442559/
  8. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003024.htm
  9. ↑ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1697736/
  1. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9641-sinus-headaches#management-and-treatment
  2. ↑ https://headaches.org/hot-and-cold-packs-showers/
  3. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003024.htm
  4. ↑ Sari Eitches, MBE, MD. Sleep Specialist. Expert Interview. 3 April 2020.
  5. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15985108/
  6. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about/
  7. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16897622/
  8. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31667736/
  9. ↑ https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/understanding-migraine-cattreatmentmindfulness-meditation-migraine/
  10. ↑ https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/meditation-and-mindfulness-effectiveness-and-safety
  11. ↑ https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2019/november/migraines-vs-headaches
  12. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/9652-headache-medicine
  13. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22517298/
  14. ↑ https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/aromatherapy-do-essential-oils-really-work
  15. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5655397/
  16. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4818021/
  17. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/study-reveals-that-caffeine-can-actually-prevent-migraines/
  18. ↑ https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/headaches#prevented
  19. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7551876/
  20. ↑ https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/magnesium-deficiency
  21. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-can-i-do-to-avoid-headache-and-migraine-triggers
  22. ↑ https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2019/november/migraines-vs-headaches
  23. ↑ Sari Eitches, MBE, MD. Sleep Specialist. Expert Interview. 3 April 2020.
  24. ↑ https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/acupressure-pain-and-headaches
  25. ↑ https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/understanding-migraineacupuncture-and-migraine-finding-a-combination-that-sticks/
  26. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3099267/
  27. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16827629/
  28. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21640251
  29. ↑ https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/spinal-manipulation-what-you-need-to-know
  30. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17876-thunderclap-headaches

About This Article

Sari Eitches, MBE, MD
Medically reviewed by:
Sari Eitches, MBE, MD
Integrative Internist
This article was medically reviewed by Sari Eitches, MBE, MD and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano. Dr. Sari Eitches is an Integrative Internist who runs Tower Integrative Health and Wellness, based in Los Angeles, California. She specializes in plant-based nutrition, weight management, women's health, preventative medicine, and depression. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Integrative and Holistic Medicine. She received a BS from the University of California, Berkeley, an MD from SUNY Upstate Medical University, and an MBE from the University of Pennsylvania. She completed her residency at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, NY and served as an attending internist at the University of Pennsylvania. This article has been viewed 11,742,238 times.
115 votes - 74%
Co-authors: 569
Updated: November 28, 2024
Views: 11,742,238
Categories: Featured Articles | Headaches

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

Article SummaryX

If you’re suffering from a headache, there are some tricks you can try for fast-acting relief. Close your eyes and inhale for a count of 5, then exhale for a count of 5. Keep breathing like this until your headache subsides. Massage your temples or the back of your neck at the same time for extra relief. Placing a cold compress over your eyes or forehead can also help, especially if you have a migraine. For a tension headache, hold a heating pack against your head or neck, or take a warm bath or shower. Caffeine can also get rid of a headache, so try drinking some caffeinated tea or coffee. Even just drinking water can ease a headache if you’re feeling dehydrated. If your headache persists, take a break from what you’re doing and do something relaxing, like yoga or meditation. Dim the lights and shut off any screens since bright light can make headaches worse. Applying peppermint oil to your temples and inhaling lavender oil can provide quick headache relief and help you relax. Finally, consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like Tylenol or Advil if natural methods aren’t helping. To learn how to get rid of a headache with natural remedies like ginger and tea, read the article!

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