Wellness

7 Things To Do If You’re Suffering From Headaches

woman in blue dress touching her head

Headaches are something most of us have to endure from time to time, and for the most part, they’re no big deal, but if you keep getting struck down by that tell-tale ache in your head, then it could be that there is something else going on, or that you need to do one of the seven things below to shift them faster because no one needs a headache, right? Certainly not today. 

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

You’d be surprised how many headaches are simply your body’s way of saying, “Oi! I need water.” Before you reach for the painkillers, down a big glass of water, sipping slowly. Carry a refillable bottle around and sip regularly, you might just find the ache starts to fade away before you know it, and you’re back to feeling fine again.

a woman squeezing a lemon
Photo by Thirdman

2. Check Your Posture

Slumping over your laptop or scrolling on your phone like a pretzel can strain your neck and shoulders, leading to tension headaches that are totally avoidable. Try sitting with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and your screen at eye level. Your spine (and your head) will thank you.

3. Book an Appointment with Your Optician

Eye strain is a sneaky culprit. If you’re squinting at your screen or rubbing your eyes a lot, your vision could be the root cause. Pop in to see your local opticians for an eye test. Even a small prescription tweak or a pair of glasses designed for screen use can work wonders.

young woman adjusting glasses in optical store
Photo by Ksenia Chernaya

4. Manage Your Stress Levels

Easier said than done, right? But stress is one of the biggest triggers for headaches. Try meditation apps, yoga, or just a proper walk outside without your phone buzzing away in your pocket. Sometimes, ten quiet minutes with a cuppa does the trick.

5. Watch Your Diet

Skipping meals, guzzling too much caffeine, or going overboard on sugar can all bring on headaches. Regular, balanced meals keep your blood sugar steady and your brain happy. And yes, that means don’t live on coffee and biscuits alone.

6. Take Breaks From Screens

Staring at your computer all day is basically an invitation to Headache City. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. It gives your eyes, and your head, a mini holiday.

7. Rest and Sleep Properly

Lack of sleep is practically a golden ticket to a throbbing head. Aim for 7–9 hours, keep a consistent routine, and make your bedroom a tech-free zone. Scrolling TikTok under the covers at midnight? Probably not helping.

photo of woman laying on ground
Photo by Natalie Bond

The Bottom Line

Headaches might be common, but that doesn’t mean you have to just put up with them. Simple changes such as drinking more water, checking in with your optician, getting better sleep, or just managing stress, can make a huge difference. Of course, if headaches are severe or keep coming back, don’t ignore them. Give your GP a call. Because life’s too short to be sidelined by a sore head.

Discover more from

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading