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Ask Dr. Hollmann
Dear Dr. Hollmann,
I get headaches occasionally, but can't take any over-the-counter headache medications. Is there anything I can do without medication to try and relieve the pain?

You describe your headaches as occasional, which implies that you do not have a pattern of new or worrisome headaches that require a medical evaluation. As you might expect, most of the treatments for occasional, short-term headaches (as compared to chronic or recurrent headaches) focus on pain relief medications. However, to prevent headaches, try avoiding common triggers such as lack of sleep, caffeine, chocolate, red wine, and other alcohol. Nondrug treatments of chronic headaches include physical therapy, behavioral therapy (psychological stress reduction and muscle relaxation training), and lifestyle changes such as making sure you get proper sleep, eliminating tobacco, reducing alcohol and caffeine, and exercising regularly. No herbal or homeopathic treatments are proven or recommended. It seems to me the best nondrug treatment for a headache is to rest and do what helps you relax your muscles (massage, warm shower, nice music). Distractions can also be very effective for mild headaches. Sometimes, tasks that require intense concentration may just have to be postponed for a day.

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