Other Treatments for Headache
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA There are ways to treat each type of headache. Talk with your doctor before you try one. Other treatments are: BiofeedbackBiofeedback teaches you how to control things the body does on its own. It may help you get fewer headaches and make them less painful. A therapist will guide you to relax certain muscles or control breathing. At the same time, an electronic device shows your body’s response. RelaxationRelaxing the muscles can help you have fewer headaches from tension. Relaxation methods are deep breathing, imagining being in a safe place, or clearing the mind of thoughts. A therapist can teach you how to do these methods. AcupunctureA trained specialist places small needles into the skin in specific places to ease pain. MassageMassage has been used to ease headaches. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)TENS stimulates the nerves to put off migraines. OxygenBreathing 100% oxygen for 10 to 15 minutes often helps ease cluster headache pain. It appears to lower blood flow to the part of the brain that is having problems. CounselingCounseling can help you learn new coping skills, ease stress, and change your thought pattern. This often means fewer tension headaches. When to Call Your DoctorCall your doctor if:
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Headache—frequently asked questions. National Headache Foundation website. Available at:
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Last reviewed December 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board
Rimas Lukas, MD Last Updated: 1/16/2019 |
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