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LIFESTYLE FACTORS THAT CAUSE HEADACHES

Headaches can be an unwelcome event no matter what stage or season of life you’re in. Your daily lifestyle could be one of the major reasons you are suffering from frequent headaches. This type of headache is known as primary headache.

Primary headache is caused by overactivity of your pain sensitivity or problems with pain-sensitive structures in your head. A primary headache isn't a symptom of an underlying disease.

Chemical activity in your brain, nerves or blood vessels surrounding your skull, or the muscles of your head and neck (or some combination of these factors) can play a role in primary headaches. Some people may also carry genes that make them more likely to develop such headaches.

Our lifestyle choices and even our diet all factor into what type of headache may occur, and when. High stress, erratic sleep patterns, snoring, sleep apnea, caffeine overuse and certain foods can all trigger headaches, ranging from moderate to severe.

Primary headaches that is triggered by daily lifestyles are :

•Alcohol, particularly red wine

•Certain foods, such as processed meats that contain nitrates

•Changes in sleep or lack of sleep

•Poor posture

•Skipped meals

•Stress

•Dehydration

It’s easier to make lifestyle modifications to avoid certain triggers if you know what they are. Always encourage yourself to set regular sleep time,even on the weekends. Avoid taking processed foods on a regular basis. Practise eating healthy meals on time.

Manage your stress by participating in activities like meditation, yoga and exercise will help alleviate most headaches woes. Ensure to consume plenty of water.

Always try to go for lifestyle modifications first before trying other methods like medications. It is always easy to get a painkiller over the counter for quick relief from pain,which is only helpful for a short period of time. It is the best to improve your lifestyle to treat the headaches effectively.

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