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Recognizing and dealing with headache triggers

Headache triggers

A headache is the worst thing that can happen to you on a pleasant day. Though a mere pain it can be very discomforting. Headaches occur when a nerve at the base of the brain, known as the trigeminal nerve, gets activated. The trigeminal nerve is the major nerve on the face responsible for the sensations.

For most of you headache is a little discomfort which you have to face once in a blue moon. However, there are ones with frequent headaches which get physically debilitating. If you belong to the second category, it is better to meet your doctor right away. For the ones in the first category, getting to know what causes headache might help you to get rid of it or better, prevent it. There are many factors that might trigger a headache for you. The cure is to identify the cause and go for the treatment accordingly.

1. Stress

Stress, whether at work or at home, is the cause of over 80 percent of the headaches. While for some, stress is the part and parcel of life it is important to ensure that it is not affecting you health. Increased stress can cause variations in the levels of cortisol and adrenaline which leads to headache and nausea. Stress, as it causes simple headaches with less pain and discomfort, can lead to serious migraines too. The only way to avoid this type of headache is to de-stress your body and mind regularly. The de-stressing method is completely your choice. It can be yoga, meditation, muscular relaxation, sex, some time in a spa or prayer. Check what works best for you.

2. Food induced headaches

It is common to have headache after having a certain kind of food. This might be due to chemicals that are added to the food during its preparation or naturally occurring chemicals present in the food. For example, monosodium glutamate, a common additive in oriental and packaged food can cause headaches in some. Similar is the case with tyramine, a natural chemical component of many types of cheese. Aspartame in artificial sweeteners and phenyl ethylamine found in chocolate and alcohol are also known to cause headaches. Dehydration and lack of nutrition can also cause headaches. Have food in time and at regular intervals. Identify the type of food that induces headache and avoid it. That is the only cure for this type of headache.

3. Sleep disorders and lack of sleep

As a living being everyone needs sleep. But sleep disorders like sleep apnea and insomnia are increasing. Even changes in sleep patterns can trigger headaches. The only cure for such headaches is a peaceful sleep. However, it is always better you stick to a particular sleep pattern where you sleep and arise in the morning at same time, regularly. Ensure that you get adequate, sleep of 7 to 8 hours. Remember too much of sleep also might induce headache.

4. Smell

A strong smell can also induce headache in many people. The trigeminal nerve is connected to the nose too. When you smell a strong perfume or a foul smell, the nerve gets activated and causes headache. If you suffer from this kind of headache steering clear of the strong smell is the only way.

5. Light

Intensive bright lights from computer screen and fluorescent lamps can also cause headache. If possible switch to anti-glare computer screens and less intensive incandescent lamps. However, if you happen to spend most of your time in a room with fluorescent lamps and light painted walls, hang some pictures or objects to absorb the excessive light. That would definitely help.

6. Hormonal changes

Women are the major sufferers from headaches due to hormonal changes. The changes in levels of estrogen, the female sex-hormone, during the menstrual period can induce head aches. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that are readily available can help in such cases. Hormonal changes due to pregnancy are also known to induce headache in some women. In case of headache during pregnancy it is always better to get advice from your doctor administering self treatment medicines. Eat a well balanced diet have plenty of fluids and avoid headache triggers. You have found a cure for headache forever.

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