Don't you fret the horror that comes with a headache pain that just keeps bugging you? It seems that it doesn't want to go away no matter what you do or how many pain relief pills you take? I know I do!
Chronic headaches are something most of us have gone through at some point or another. Most of the time, stress is the culprit behind this headache pain. What's worse, this tension headache can make us feel drained and unable to focus on anything else.But hey, let me tell you this: there's hope beyond headache pain!
Let's dig deep on some simple and effective ways to kick those stress headaches away! So, whether it's caused by work, personal life, or just everyday stress, stick around for some helpful tips to help you feel better in no time.
Article Highlight:
- Just so you know, stress headaches can be pretty common. It can be caused by different things like emotional stress, poor posture, lack of sleep, and even skipping meals (usually breakfast).
- Here are some quick relief strategies that I find helpful for easing stress headaches: deep breathing exercises, neck and shoulder stretches, applying heat or cold, hydration, and massage or acupuncture.
- Changing your lifestyle can also help prevent that painful stress headaches. When you reduce stress, get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, do regular exercise, and practice relaxation techniques you can reduce that tension headache from happening.
- Other supplements, like CBDA found in cannabis plants that have recently emerged in the wellness market help prevent stress headaches.
What Are Stress Headaches and What Are the Symptoms?
Stress headache or tension headache is not fun at all. Many people actually suffer this very uncomfortable pain. When you have a tension headache you might feel a dull ache or muscle tightness on both sides of the head. But just remember, the symptoms can be different for everyone.
Stress and tension-type headaches can be caused by things like stress, anxiety, and tension in the neck and shoulders. The headache pain can come mild to moderate, and it can last from 30 minutes to several days.
Stress induced headaches often associate when it becomes chronic, such as stressed parents balancing kids and work.
What Causes Stress Headaches
Now, what really causes stress headaches? More interesting question is how are they different from other types of headaches? Well, stress headaches, from the name itself, are generally caused by stress and other contributing factors. When you are stressed, your body will release hormones that may cause muscle tension. Unfortunately, this may lead to a tension type headache where you might feel a tightness or pressure sensation around the head.
Many stress and tension headache patients exhibit myofascial soreness, meaning there chronic muscle tension in the body. This is why engaging in certain physical therapy routines or stretching exercises can be beneficial.
However, the connection between soreness and headaches is not clear, and may not be causal. Here are a list of conditions that are thought to trigger tension headaches in some patients:
- Drugs or alcohol
- Stress
- Clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth (bruxism)
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Holding your head in one position for a long time (like using a computer)
- Medications, including some headache medications (leading to rebound headaches)
- Eye strain
- Arthritis
- Fatigue
- Overexertion
- Skipping meals
- Head or neck injury, even years after the injury
- Sleeping in an awkward position or in a cold room
- Hormonal changes (primarily among women)
A cluster headache, on the other hand, are characterized by severe, stabbing pain on one side of the head and it is not usually caused by stress or tension
Quick Relief Techniques for Stress Headaches
Oh, stress headaches, what a discomfort! You, me, we've all been there, right? When you're dealing with one, it can be very tough to focus on anything else that needs your attention. But don't worry, here are some quick relief home remedies that you can try to combat chronic headaches.
1. Deep Breathing Exercises
First up, do some deep breathing exercises. Hey, they work like magic for reducing stress and ultimately, lessening that tension. What you need to do is find a quiet spot that you are comfortable with. Then, the next step is to start taking slow, deep breaths. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Take note, just focus on your breath and try to let go of any tension you might be holding with each exhale.
2. Neck and Shoulder Stretches
The muscle tightness in your neck and shoulders most of the time causes stress headaches. Doing some simple stretches might help. To do this, gently tilt your head to the left and hold for 10 seconds. Repeat the process on the right side. And oh, don't forget to roll your shoulders forward and backward, this will help release tension or any pain in your upper back and shoulders too!
3. Apply Heat or Cold
Next, try a relaxing hot or cold compress to the area where you can feel pain. A warm compress using a heating pad, a hot towel, or even placing a hot water bottle can help relax those tense muscles. Meanwhile, when you do a cold compress or ice pack, it can help numb the pain and reduce inflammation. Give both a try and see which works best for you!
4. Drinking Water
Did you know that dehydration can be a particular trigger for a tension type headache? Make sure you drink a lot of water throughout your day, especially when it's hot outside. If you feel a headache coming, sip on some water or a sports drink to rehydrate your body.
5. Over-the-Counter Medication
Sometimes, over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; e.g. ibuprofen) or acetaminophen may be helpful in easing a tension type headache. But you need to make sure to follow the instructions on the label and don't ever take more than the recommended dose.
6. Massage or Acupuncture
If you have access to a professional masseuse or acupuncturist, consider booking a session. Massage or acupuncture are great physical therapy methods to help relieve tension in your body and promote relaxation. Ultimately, many people find it will help reduce your stress headache.
Preventing Stress Headaches: Lifestyle Changes You Can Make
What annoying and painful stress headaches are, and they seem to pop up at the worst of all times. But with lifestyle changes you can make to help prevent them from even happening in the first place.
Reducing Stress
As I have mentioned, stress is a major headache trigger. So, it is important to find your own ways to chill out and relax. I've found that practicing mindfulness and meditation, taking breaks throughout the day, or even delegating tasks can absolutely help reduce stress.
And don't ever be afraid to say no to commitments that may cause you that unnecessary stress! You don't want it to trigger a headache pain!
Getting Enough Sleep
Have you noticed that when you are not getting enough sleep you frequently experience stress headaches? Lack of sleep actually triggers headaches, too! So, try aiming for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. To help you get those much needed Zzz's, I suggest establishing a regular sleep schedule. You should also avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime. Lastly, try to create a relaxing bedtime routine, it should help you wind down after a long day.
Eating a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet can work wonders to our overall health, particularly it can help prevent stress headaches. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains in your meals. These foods will provide all the micronutrients your body needs to handle whatever life throws at you.
And don't skip meals or go too long without eating. Take note that this can trigger headaches.
Regular Exercise
Exercise is great for combating stress and boosting your mood. Try to move at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Some fun options you can try include brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
Practicing Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation techniques like deep breathing and yoga can help you de-stress and prevent stress headaches. Try making these techniques a part of your daily routine to keep tension at bay.
CBDA and Stress Headaches
Have you ever heard of this new amazing compound called CBDA? Experts have found that it has many potential benefits for stress headaches. CBDA, or cannabidiolic acid, is essentially a non-psychoactive substance found in cannabis sativa plants. It is one among the many acidic cannabinoids present in the plant, but is the most abundant.CBDA chemical composition contains a carboxyl group in its end. This gives it super absorptive properties, making it over 500% better absorbed than CBD. So, it has been getting a lot of attention lately.
Some of the unique properties of CBDA that have recently been discovered:
- Anti-inflammatory: CBDA was found to inhibit the COX2 enzyme, a critical component that drives inflammation. This is also the target for many NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen. CBDA may reduce inflammation which is important for stress and tension headaches.
- Anxiety and stress: CBDA can activate the 5HT1A serotonin receptor, which is a classical target of SSRI drugs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) used for depression.
- Mood and sleep: The endocannabinoid system is involved in many of the regulatory processes that control mood and sleep. CBDA and other cannabinoid compounds help promote a healthy endocannabinoid system through CB2 receptors among others.
Researchers found that it possesses anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties in many preclinical studies. That's why CBDA is a promising remedy if you are looking for natural relief from stress headaches.
How Can We Use CBDA for Stress Headache Relief?
There are a few ways you can incorporate CBDA into your daily routine to relieve stress headaches.
One option is CBDA oil. You can use this by placing a few drops under your tongue and holding it there for about 30 seconds before swallowing. This allows the CBDA to be absorbed directly into your bloodstream. It can provide you with a fast headache pain relief. You can also add CBDA oil to your favorite beverage or food if you prefer.
Another convenient way is through CBDA capsules or CBDA gummies. These products typically contain a pre-measured dose of CBDA. This makes it easy for you to monitor your intake and keep track of how much you're using.
Lastly, there are topical CBDA products, like creams or balms. You can apply them directly to the areas where you're experiencing tension or chronic pain. This will provide you a targeted relief. It may also be particularly helpful for those of us with neck and shoulder tension contributing to stress headaches.
For stress and tension headaches, the best approach is ingestion, since more CBDA is absorbed into the blood stream than a topical application.
Conclusion
So, stress headaches are a common issue that many of us face in our daily lives. However, with the right strategies and lifestyle changes, we can effectively manage and prevent these pesky headaches from taking over.Additionally, exploring alternative and natural compounds like CBDA may provide further relief. Remember, it's always good to consult first with your healthcare provider before trying new treatments.
Let's say goodbye to those stress headaches and hello to a happier, healthier life!