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5 Ways to Get Rid of Your Headache

July 24, 2025

A pounding head can throw off your whole day.

Whether its dull, sharp or somewhere in between, headaches make it tough to focus. But there are ways to get rid of a headache and feel better, fast.

We asked Andrew Wong, MD, a primary care provider with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group, to share what helps.

Headaches are more complicated than you might think.

With more than 300 possible types and causes, headaches aren’t always straightforward.

“Genetic, biological, hormonal and environmental factors can all cause headaches,” says Dr. Wong. “But most can be managed with simple, at-home strategies.”

> Related: 9 Reasons You Might Have Headaches in the Summer

1. Drink lots of water.

When you’re dehydrated, your brain can temporarily shrink away from the skull.

“This can activate pain-sensitive areas and lead to a headache,” explains Dr. Wong. “If a headache starts, reach for a glass of water.”

But ideally, don’t wait until symptoms hit. “The key is prevention,” he adds. “Stay hydrated throughout the day – especially if you’re sweating, out in the heat or flying.”

Keeping a water bottle nearby is one of the easiest ways to get rid of headache pain before it starts.

2. Try a few simple ways to relax.

It’s not easy to relax through the pain – but it can help.

“Stress is a well-known trigger for tension headaches, often causing muscle tightness in the neck, shoulders, jaw and scalp,” says Dr. Wong.

Take a few minutes and give one of these a try:

• Deep belly breathing.
• Gentle yoga or stretching.
• Meditation.

“These techniques help us deliver more oxygen to our muscles and brain, while also calming us by slowing our respiratory rate,” adds Dr. Wong.

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3. Grab a cold or warm compress.

When your head’s aching, temperature can help – if you know which one to use.

“Cold packs help reduce inflammation and numb the area, which is great for migraines,” says Dr. Wong. “And warm compresses are helpful for tension headaches since they relax the muscles and promote blood circulation.”

Wrap your compress in a cloth and stick to a 15-minute limit to protect your skin.

4. Give your eyes a break.

We’re all guilty of too much screen time – and your head can pay the price.

Staring at a monitor or phone for hours strains your eyes, which can lead to headaches.

“One simple way to help is the 20-20-20 rule,” says Dr. Wong. “Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It gives your eyes a much-needed reset.”

> Related: 3 Common Types of Headaches You Might Have

5. Reach for over-the-counter relief.

If your headache won’t quit, the right medication can help take the edge off.

“Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be effective for mild to moderate headaches,” says Dr. Wong. “Just follow dosing instructions and avoid using them too often.”

Do you need to see your doctor?

If over-the-counter meds aren’t helping – or you need them more than twice a week – check in with your provider.

And seek care right away if you have:

• Sudden, severe headaches.
• Vision changes.
• A headache following a head injury.

“If headaches are getting in the way of your life, come see us,” says Dr. Wong. “You don’t have to push through the pain – we can help you find relief.”