Is heat or cold better for tension headaches?

Ice and heat can be used to lessen the pain of headaches. In general, most sufferers with migraine headache prefer cold packs. Sufferers with tension-type or muscle contraction headaches may prefer warm packs.

Does heat make tension headaches worse?

A Baylor College of Medicine expert says headaches that seem to be caused by the heat may really be due to dehydration. When the body becomes dehydrated it is believed to trigger a headache due to narrowing blood vessels as the body loses water and electrolytes.

Does heat relieve tension headaches?

Ease muscle tension Tense muscles can trigger tension-type headaches. Apply heat or ice to relieve tense neck and shoulder muscles. Use a heating pad set on low, a hot water bottle, a hot shower or bath, a warm compress, or a hot towel. Or apply an ice pack (wrapped in a cloth) or a cool washcloth across the forehead.

Do ice packs help tension headaches?

Use a Compress Both ice and heat can help with pain. Many people with tension headaches prefer warmth. People who have migraines often choose cold.

Does ice Help tension headache?

One strategy that’s often recommended for headache and migraine pain is ice packs. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to your head or neck is believed to have a numbing effect, which may dull the sensation of pain.

Where do you massage for a tension headache?

Massage Therapy to Ease Headaches and Tension Start by placing your thumbs on your cheekbones close to your ears, and use your fingertips to gently apply pressure and rub the temples (the soft spot between the corner of your eye and your ear).

How long does it take for a tension headache to go away?

A tension-type headache may last for 30 minutes or (less commonly) months. In general, episodic tension headache symptoms tend to come on slowly and end sooner. They often happen in the middle of the day. Episodic headaches usually don’t last longer than a week.

How long do tension headaches last?

Tension headaches last at least 30 minutes but they can last much longer, sometimes for several days.

What is the best muscle relaxer for tension headache?

Muscle relaxants – These help relax muscle irritability. Tizanidine has been the main medication studied for daily use in tension headache.