Headaches turn the simplest tasks into a major problem, making it impossible to concentrate at work, and communicating with others is stressful.
Headaches have many forms. Cluster headaches cause burning or stabbing pain behind one eye or on one side of the head. They often occur in attacks, and they are one of the most severe types of headaches.
A tension headache causes a feeling that the head is under intense pressure, while a migraine, which is a severe headache, causes symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound.
Many may resort to headache treatments that the sufferer takes without a prescription, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin.
Pharmacist Deborah Grayson warns that excessive use of painkillers may lead to adverse results. She told the British newspaper the Daily Mail: “Headache is a common problem that affects many people every day, and its underlying causes can vary. Relying on painkillers regularly is not a long-term solution, because it may cause rebound headaches, meaning that the pain eases temporarily before it returns worse than before.”
Prevention is better than cure
Headaches are often linked to lifestyle factors, and Deborah pointed out that identifying their causes is the key to lasting relief. She added that factors such as lack of sleep, dehydration, low blood sugar, prolonged screen time, and muscle tension all play a role in triggering headaches.
A good night’s sleep ensures that the day goes smoothly, and reducing screen time can help you get good sleep, because the blue light that screens emit can interfere with serotonin and keep you awake.
Blood sugar levels can be linked to headaches, as low blood sugar levels lead to the release of stress hormones, such as adrenaline, which may cause blood vessels to constrict and worsen pain. Likewise, high blood sugar can also lead to headaches, so maintaining a constant level is the ideal solution.
Eating a balanced, healthy breakfast helps reduce the risk of blood sugar damage, and foods that provide complex carbohydrates, healthy fats and protein are essential for sustained energy and brain function.
Ms. Deborah warned that fluid loss, even if it is a small loss, can change blood volume, which affects brain functions and blood vessel constriction, and may cause headaches.
She said: “Start your day by drinking 250 to 500 ml of water, as it helps rehydrate your body after sleep, and supports optimal cell function and blood circulation.”
Continuing to drink water regularly throughout the day ensures that your brain and muscles get the fluids needed to function properly, and reduces the risk of headaches.
Take a break from your phone for a while
Poor posture while sitting can lead to tension in the neck and shoulder muscles, which is a common cause of tension headaches.
“Bad posture, especially while using screens for long periods, leads to tight muscles and pressure on nerves or blood vessels, which worsens headache symptoms,” Ms Deborah said.
These gentle stretching exercises target tight muscles, improving blood flow and reducing physical stress.
Stress can also release hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which may increase your sensitivity to pain.
Screens are an integral part of our modern lives, and because a complete break from screens is not realistic, Ms Grayson suggested taking short breaks every 15 minutes to help reduce stress.
Headaches are not usually a sign of serious diseases, but the presence of certain symptoms requires seeking urgent medical care.
Deborah explained: “Headaches are common and can often be controlled with simple lifestyle changes. But if you suffer from them more than two or three times a week, it is important to consult a doctor.”
She added: “Recurring headaches may indicate an underlying problem that requires treatment. If you experience a sudden, severe headache or symptoms such as vision problems, weakness, confusion, or neck stiffness, seek urgent medical help.”