There are several types of headaches and all of these are caused by different reasons. The more common types of headaches are tension headaches, migraine headaches, cluster headaches, and sinus headaches. Tension headaches are more commonly caused by stress, clenching/tightening of the jaw and face muscles; they typically resolve themselves after the stressor is over. Migraine headaches is a vascular (blood) abnormality; they are typically more debilitating and can cause sensitivity to light and sound. Cluster headaches are repeated headaches that last a shorter amount of time. Sinus headaches are more commonly felt in the cheek bones or forehead; this is caused due to your sinus cavities getting inflamed.
The following are some commom causes of headaches that are seen in our office and what we can do to help you feel better.
Dehydration
Water is a big part of being healthy and taking care of yourself
In general, you should be drinking ½ your body weight in ounces on a normal day. If you are sweating or exerting yourself more, more water should be consumed.
Water = water. No, your coffee, tea, or ice does NOT count towards your water intake.
Tip: always keep a water bottle with you, you are more likely to drink the water if it is convenient.
Tension/Stress
Many people in today’s world are always worried about something; just make sure it isn’t causing you more than just a little more thought.
People if under too much pressure, often clench their jaw or are tense throughout your upper back and shoulders. This causes unwanted and unnatural stress which can cause headaches.
Tip: Come up with something that helps you relieve your stress. Mine is taking the dog for a walk or working out.
Squinting/Eye issues
We always check with patients if they have had an eye exam recently.
We have seen people whose prescription has changed or now need glasses whom do not know it.
Excessive screen time also puts additional stress on your eyes…so make sure you finish this article and then take a break from your screen 😊
Tip: Pay attention to your posture (see details below).
Diet
If other things have been ruled out and headaches or migraines are still present, you should look at what you are eating.
Gluten and dairy are two key factors that can cause headaches.
Your body reacts to food differently than anyone else. Elimination diets are very helpful in giving feedback for intolerances to food.
Tip: Elimination diets can seem daunting but think of how much better you could feel if you take care of your body.
Posture
Anyone who has poor posture could suffer from headaches (this could fall under tension/stress headaches).
In a sitting job, people tend to sit slumped and have their shoulders rolled forward; this puts extra tension and stress on your neck.
Poor workout posture and technique can also lead to headaches.
Tip: Ask us at your next appointment the best posture for your job. Or better yet, contact us and we’d be more than happy to come to your company and talk about this more!
These are just a few things that can cause headaches or migraines. This is something you should not have to deal with on a consistent basis. Our office has had excellent results with helping reduce or eliminate headaches/migraines. We use a combination of chiropractic care, acupuncture, and active rehabilitation in our treatments to get the best result for you.
Move Better, Feel Better.
**As always, if you think there is something more serious going on make an appointment with your MD or go to a walk-in clinic.
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