for Veterans and the Public
Headaches
The most common cause of headaches is tension or stress, something we all have from time to time. Medications, including anti-HIV drugs, can cause them, too.
Headaches usually can be taken care of with drugs you can buy without a prescription, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. You can also help to prevent future headaches by reducing stress.
Quick Tips: Headaches
For on-the-spot headache relief, try some of these suggestions:
- Lie down and rest in a quiet, dark room.
- Take a hot, relaxing bath.
- Give yourself a "scalp massage"--massage the base of your skull with your thumbs and massage both temples gently.
- Check with your doctor about taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as aspirin.
To prevent headaches from happening again, try the following:
- Avoid things that can cause headaches, like chocolate, red wine, onions, hard cheese, and caffeine.
- Reduce your stress level.
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