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Tension Headache - Need to Know
That dull ache in the back of your head may be a nagging sign of too much stress. How can you tame the tension and find relief? According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
- Apply soothing oils
Rub peppermint oil or an ointment containing aromatic oils on your forehead
- Kick back and relax
Try relaxation techniques such as meditation and biofeedback to control the effects of stress and reduce headache frequency and severity
- Take 5-HTP
300 mg a day of the nutritional supplement 5-hydroxytryptophan may lessen headache frequency and limit the need for pain-relieving medications (use 100 mg a day for children)
- Manage your muscles
Find a practitioner trained in massage or physical therapy to help unwind tight neck and shoulder muscles
- Have your spine “inspected”
Visit a chiropractor or other licensed practitioner trained in spinal manipulation to correct joint problems that may contribute to your headache
Also indexed as:
- tension headache,
- tension headaches,
- tension type headache
About this treatment
That dull ache in the back of your head may be a nagging sign of too much stress. How can you tame the tension and find relief? According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
- Apply soothing oils
Rub peppermint oil or an ointment containing aromatic oils on your forehead
- Kick back and relax
Try relaxation techniques such as meditation and biofeedback to control the effects of stress and reduce headache frequency and severity
- Take 5-HTP
300 mg a day of the nutritional supplement 5-hydroxytryptophan may lessen headache frequency and limit the need for pain-relieving medications (use 100 mg a day for children)
- Manage your muscles
Find a practitioner trained in massage or physical therapy to help unwind tight neck and shoulder muscles
- Have your spine “inspected”
Visit a chiropractor or other licensed practitioner trained in spinal manipulation to correct joint problems that may contribute to your headache
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
Learn more about Aisle7, the company.
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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