Friday 16 November 2012

The December headache!


Only 2% of the population never get headaches and 1 in 7 of us suffer from migraines so headaches are a problem for many people, particularly when under pressure at this time of year.

Trying to fit in too much can result in the most common simple tension headache, which can start in the forehead or back of the head and can develop into a band-like pressure and fortunately this is the easiest to resolve. Relaxing the shoulders, which is a contributing factor, is important - a simple ‘rolling action to ease is an effective habit to get into. Massage is excellent and allows shoulders and neck to release which allows us to feel more relaxed in ourselves. Ofcourse, intelligent  time management is a preventative factor; everyone benefits from avoiding over-booking ourselves -  simply write the word ‘Nothing’ in the diary for a regular slot to get off the treadmill and allow time to breathe!

Other headaches can arise from a ‘crick in the neck’ which is probably a result of muscle tension and fatigue combines with a posture which allows the neck to ‘lock up’. This includes sleeping postures and ensuring your pillows are the correct height is important as many people wake with a ‘crick’ (see wwwaboutbacksandbones.com for more info). Cervicogenic headaches also arise from joints in the neck causing head pain and as with tension headaches or a ‘crick’ which doesn’t resolve in a few days, osteopathy, physiotherapy or chiropractic can all give relief without the ‘rebound headache’ from taking too many painkillers!

Migraines are more complex and anyone with regular pounding headaches or gastic ‘upset’ on a regular basis may benefit from investigations. There doesn’t need to be the classic ‘aura’ and the onset can be associated with stress, hormones, diet or tiredness.

Fortunately, less common are cluster headaches behind the eye which are also very intense, can cause the eye to water and occur in clusters. It is also good to be aware that headaches are a feature of meningitis (with photophobia), encephalitis and also the symptoms of a stroke (followed by being unable to raise arms or smile equally and speech can be affected).  However, look at the obvious before panicking… and slow down and relax!

Merry Christmas!

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