A bad headache can ruin your whole day. You can put an end to most headaches if you can determine what is causing them and how to make the appropriate environmental changes.

When you have a headache, basically you’re responding to the swelling of vains and muscles in your scalp. Those sensitive nerves shout an alarm to the brain, telling you in no uncertain terms that they do not like this swelling. The end result is a terrible headache.

Most headaches are related to tension. A tension headache feels as if someone wrapped a rubber band around your head. It can occur anywhere, but usually is localized to the back of the head and upper neck or across the forehead. Menstruation, dehydration, noise, exhaustion, sugary foods, and stress are all triggers for this kind of headache. Tension headaches can usually be relieved by a nap, massage, a cool compress, or time alone in a quiet area.

The second most commonly reported headache is related to sinus pressure. You may feel this headache radiating down from the crown to spots on your face, as pressure from the sinus cavities causes this condition. Try drinking fluids, clearing your sinuses, massaging your temples and sinuses, and taking hot showers.

Migraines are one of the most debilitating types of headaches. Migraine headaches are severe in nature, causing nausea and vomiting, visualization of stars or bursts of light, sharp stabbing pains, dizziness, and painful sensitivity to light, sounds, and smells. You can beat a migraine by lying down in a dark, quiet place and sleeping it off.

If you experience a severe headache that is chracterized by seizures, involuntary muscles movements, high fever, or the loss of your ability to communicate, you will need to see a doctor to make sure you are not suffering from a stroke, meningitis, or encephalitis.

In most cases, you can find headache relief if you change up your diet or environment. You may find that a good rest and a couple of analgesics (such as ibuprofen) will do the trick. However, if your headaches persist or are intense in nature, you will want to see a doctor for an evaluation.