Few nuisances can bring your day to a grinding halt quite like a nasty headache. Tension headaches are so common that they’re often confused with migraines, cluster headaches, and even sinus pain. This type of head pain usually appears during times of high stress and fatigue.
Fortunately, simple lifestyle changes that reduce stress and improve overall health can often lead to reduced frequency and relief from this painful condition. Below we explore four key habits that can help you ward off tension headaches and stay focused.
4 Tips To Avoid Tension Headaches
“My severe headaches and neck pain were limiting the activities I could do with my son. Now I can run and play with him anytime!”- Keondra Gordon
1) Make Dental Health A Priority
Dental issues like teeth grinding, jaw clenching, and Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ) are common culprits of tension headaches. These dental conditions affect your jaw and facial muscles, often causing headaches and jaw pain. Go to the dentist at least once a year to make sure your jaw and teeth are healthy and aren’t contributing to your headaches.
2) Ease Off The Caffeine
For some people, taking caffeine can ease the pain of a headache. For others, caffeine can have the opposite effect. Taking too much caffeine, or trying to quit cold turkey, can produce unintended side-effects like tension headaches.
Try to drink caffeinated beverages in moderation so your body will be less likely to react with pain. If you’re struggling to get through the day without that extra cup of afternoon coffee, try these healthy ways to stay energized at work instead.
3) Adjust Your Sleep Habits
Lack of sleep can also trigger a headache, especially if the sleep you are getting isn’t restful. It’s important to get as much sleep as you need to feel well-rested and ready for the day. A few ways you can adjust your sleeping habits to get better sleep is by turning off your phone, setting up a consistent sleep routine, and by fitting in a moderate amount of exercise.
4) Exercise And Stretch
Regular exercise is one of the easiest ways to relieve stress and improve your health. When you exercise, your body releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins. These hormones can boost your mood, improve brain function, and help you stay focused.
Taking some time out of your day to stretch and move around can significantly improve your mood and ease tension. For specific exercises and stretches that target tension headaches, check out the video below.
Find Fast Headache Relief With Airrosti
Chronic and painful headaches can impede daily life and leave you feeling miserable. If your headaches are getting the better of you and the above tips aren’t keeping the pain at bay, schedule an appointment with Airrosti today. Our expert providers can diagnose and treat your pain at the source while giving you the resources you need to keep your head clear and pain free.
We offer in-office and telehealth appointments to best suit your needs. Call us at (800) 404-6050 to schedule your appointment today!
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