Suffering from headaches isn’t just a hassle, but a painful experience that affects everyday life. If you suffer from persistent migraines, you know how it feels to spend the day in bed, hoping that over-the-counter pain medication will provide some relief. Luckily, there’s more than just one way to cope. The experts at Kalispell, MT’s Glacier Headache & Sleep Medicine share solutions that might surprise you. 

The first step is to have a complete evaluation by a headache specialist to determine the type and potential cause(s) of your headaches.  Dr. Patrick Burns at Glacier Headache & Sleep Medicine has outstanding success in treating and managing all types of headaches.

There are several types of headaches including tension, post-traumatic, rebound (drug-induced), thunderclap, cluster, and migraine headaches. 

These can be infrequent to chronic, varying in intensity.  It is essential to determine the type and then discuss potential causes and treatment options.

Although there are non-medicinal ways to help with your headaches, such as acupuncture and massage therapy, there are several preventive and abortive medications which are more effective in both managing headaches and out-of-pocket costs for the patient.

In preparation for your evaluation appointment, keep a headache diary of frequency, intensity and the effect on your body and activities.  Also note things that may contribute to or trigger your headaches such as allergens, foods, activities, and environmental causes.

While waiting for your appointment, there are things to try to help prevent or alleviate headache pain.  Use relaxation techniques to help reduce stress and muscle tightness.  Sleep is necessary for your body to function as it should, so be sure to get a good night’s sleep.  Exercise helps with sleep and it lessens stress as well.  Exercise also releases endorphins which can lessen frequency and intensity of headaches. 

Stretch muscles to ease tension and use either hot or cold compress to alleviate pain.

If you’re suffering from regular headaches or sleep problems that are affecting everyday life, it’s time to get some relief. The professionals at Glacier Headache & Sleep Medicine can help find the causes and provide solutions to ease your pain for good. Visit the experts online for more information, or call (406) 752-1729 to schedule your appointment today.