Most of us reach for painkillers at the first sign of a headache. While they provide quick relief, AIIMS doctor Priyanka Sehrawat warns that these medicines only mask the pain temporarily. The root causes often lie in our daily habits and lifestyle choices. With small, mindful changes, up to half of all headaches could be prevented naturally.
Headache and migraines are not random. They are frequently triggered by factors in our everyday routine—skipping meals, irregular sleep, dehydration, stress and exposure to screens or harsh sunlight. By paying attention to these triggers, you can reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches significantly.
How Painkillers Work – And Why They’re Not Enough
Painkillers may seem like a simple solution, but they do not address the underlying causes of headache. Dr Sehrawat explains, “I have said this many times that these painkillers give relief from headache only for a short time.” Frequent reliance on medication can even mask patterns that help identify triggers, making it harder to manage headaches in the long run.
Instead of depending solely on medicines, it’s essential to focus on preventive measures. Managing your lifestyle effectively can cut down headache occurrences by up to 50 percent. Simple daily habits make a significant difference and reduce the need for painkillers.
Simple Lifestyle Habits To Prevent Headache
Dr Sehrawat highlights several practical habits everyone can follow:
Regular Meals and Breakfast: Never skip breakfast, and maintain consistent meal timings to avoid sudden drops in blood sugar, which can trigger headaches.
Sleep Routine: Stick to fixed sleeping hours to help your body and mind reset properly.
Hydration: Drink enough water throughout the day to prevent dehydration-related headaches.
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen or protective clothing when stepping out in the sun.
Exercise: Incorporate light exercise daily to improve circulation and reduce stress.
Limit Empty-Stomach Caffeine: Avoid tea or coffee on an empty stomach, as it can cause acidity and worsen headache symptoms.
Screen Time: Reduce TV and mobile usage after 8 pm to prevent eye strain and tension headaches.
By following these simple steps consistently, many people notice a visible reduction in headache frequency and intensity. Over time, your reliance on painkillers can decrease, allowing your body to manage pain more naturally.
