A headache is defined as "a pain or ache in the head...It accompanies many diseases and conditions, including emotional distress."1
Headaches are one of the most common symptoms that can be experienced. Most people will experience a headache at some point of their lives.2 They can affect anyone regardless of age and gender.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that around 47% of the world's adult population will have experienced a headache within the last year. As well as being symptoms of other conditions, headache disorders can lead to the development of other illnesses. Depression is three times more common in individuals with severe headaches than healthy people.
Prevent headaches with self care
There are a number of things that can be done within the daily routine that can ease the pain of headaches:
- Apply a heat pack or ice pack to your head or neck
- Avoid things that are stressful
- Eat regular meals
- Drink plenty of water
- Exercise regularly
- Get enough rest and regular sleep
- Have a hot shower
