Cure a headache in 3 mins

Ditch that painkiller dose and try these easy fixes for fast relief instead

Do you rely on over-the-counter meds to soothe your headache? You're not alone - millions of women in the UK suffer regularly, but you don't always need to reach for the medicine cabinet when pain strikes. 'Your headache could be down to stress, eye strain, dehydration or your hormones,' says headache specialist Professor Anne MacGregor*. Instead of popping pills, these simple, natural cures could help...

Control your breath

Take a moment to focus on your breathing. Breathe in slowly through your nose to the count of four and exhale to the count of six or eight. 'Deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, changing your body's response to adrenaline and other hormones that can trigger stress headaches,' says Dr Steven Allder, a consultant neurologist at recognitionhealth.com

Dim the lights

Bright light can trigger a headache or make one worse if it has already started, explains Dr Allder. 'This is particularly true of migraines, when the brain can become much more sensitive to light and also to noise. Consider switching to soft, yellow-toned light bulbs in your home.

Nibble chocolate