Headaches and Migraines - You can do Something About Them

Headaches and migraines are, well, a real headache. No one likes to have them, especially at work. Unfortunately, your work may be a major cause.

Headaches and migraines can be triggered by a variety of causes, but some are very common. And the first, of course, can be your boss. “My boss gives me a headache,” may be all too true a statement. And if he gives you a migraine, it’s even worse.

Your job itself can be a problem. Let’s face it, not everyone likes the job they do - stress is often the norm. If your headache or migraine is so intense it interferes with your life, it may be time to consider changing jobs. You may be taking a cut in salary but increasing the quality of your life.

There are now some studies that warm weather can trigger headaches, so if you live in Arizona and suffer from migraines, turn up that air conditioner. It may cost a bit more in electricity, but the anger, sleeplessness, fatigue and depression caused by headaches or migraines and the ensuing pain medications, could cost a lot more.

Strong scents can also cause headaches or migraines, and we’re not just talking ammonia. Some people are very sensitive to smells. (It’s called MCS, or Multiple Chemical Sensitivity.) The headache that a normal person can get from a strong whiff of ammonia can be caused by anything from someone else’s perfume to floor wax. And many people have a mild case of MCS. Actually, since humans evolved without the presence of strong chemicals, sensitivity to them really can’t be called abnormal. We are surrounded by paints, solvents, perfumes, bug sprays, and various petrochemicals all day long. The wonder is that not all of us have migraines and headaches.

Testing for such sensitivity can be arduous and difficult, but just being more aware of smells you find unpleasant can be an indicator. New carpet, with its strong smell of glue and chemicals, can often set off a headache or migraine.

Here are some other causes of migraines and headaches. Tight hairdos that strain the scalp may cause a headache. Exercise or overexertion that increases blood pressure to the head can also cause headaches. Poor posture, especially if it bends or compresses the neck may result in migraines. Smoking, which constricts the blood vessels leading to the brain, may also cause headaches to both the smoker and those around them.