8 headache + migraine remedies

Since I was in my early teens, I have suffered from chronic headaches. While a migraine and a headache are very different, recently I started to suffer from migraines, which I would typically get once a month or so, in addition to multiple tension headaches a week.

I’ve seen neurologists and had MRIs, and they say it’s chronic tension. I had a breast reduction, which helped significantly coupled with physical therapy, as well as lower back surgery for a herniated disc that was pinching my nerves (basically, I am 30, living in a 70 year old person’s body), both of which alleviated the number of headaches that I get. I’ve also tried many different prescriptions to relax muscles and inflammation. Let’s leave at this- if you know this life, you know this life.

While there isn’t much you can do once you have a migraine beyond laying silently in the dark, what I can say is that I have found a lot of things over the years that can aid in alleviating migraines or tension headaches. And I figured I could share the wealth of knowledge I have collected. Here are the tips and products I have for migraines or tension headaches.

• 01. This is my #1 recommendation for anyone who suffers from headaches- you need these cooling patches. Typically used for fevers, I find that the cooling sensation is really one of the only things that brings me relief when I am suffering head pain. I personally use the Mickey Mouse version because I have a small head, but both stick right onto your head, and stay put.
• 02. If you haven’t heard of Tiger Balm, you are seriously missing out, regardless of whether you have headaches. If you work out, or simply experience a lot of stress from sitting in a chair all day at work, I cannot recommend this product enough. Two different versions- red and white- but both have a cooling sensation that targets muscle aches and pains. I keep this at my desk, and rub it on my temples, shoulders and neck throughout the day to prevent tension.
• 03. Another great cooling relief that is great for a migraine is this gel eye mask that you can store in the freezer in case of emergencies. Not only does this really bring down the throbbing sensation, but it also blocks the light, which is so necessary when you’re in full suffering status.
• 04. This eye mask is another favorite that is so gentle and comfortable, but provides just the right amount of pressure when you want to try and fall asleep. It’s the night mask I use every night, and really is such a great purchase for both headaches and everyday use.
• 05. Another one of my major must-haves is this heating pad. You can ask Chris, but I use a heating pad every single day, and I travel with one, because I need it to fall asleep. This one is perfect for shoulder and neck pain, but can really be used to wrap around anywhere. I know there is a lot of conflicting science around whether to use heat or ice, but mostly, I just use what makes me feel better.
• 06. One of my almost daily habits is to take a bath. Because I have so many back issues, I find that baths are both preventative and alleviating care for my headaches. Want to take it up a notch? Use these epsom salts that have a lavender smell (great for headaches – they are made of magnesium sulfates- many who suffer from migraines have magnesium deficiencies) to target tense muscles and inflammation.
• 07. One of the biggest reasons I used to get headaches so often was because I wasn’t drinking enough water throughout the day. I know this is a weird thing, but I personally don’t love the taste of water, and I hate beverages that are lukewarm. So when Chris bought me this Hydroflask (it must have a straw for me) I was not convinced it would get my to drink more water. I stand corrected. It is such a lifesaver for cold and refreshing water- I drink about 3 of these a day, and add another if I work out. Do I pee all day? Yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely.
• 08. I haven’t fully jumped onto the CBD train (yet), but when I have a headache, I often don’t have an appetite. I often drink tea because it’s easy on my stomach. I have really liked this tea I picked up for it’s flavor, but I also find it relaxes me. It could totally be a placebo effect, but there’s a lot of science that says it can reduce pain and inflammation. Tumeric and ginger both have significant health benefits for digestion and inflammation, so I’ll take something over nothing.

I’m aware that when you have a real migraine, there is not a lot that you can do other than lay in a cool and dark place. But I hope that some of these tricks and products might be able to bring those of you that suffer some relief. I use many of these on days I don’t have headaches, too! Let me know what you use below, or your tried and trues for chronic pain.