If you're wondering why you get headaches all the time, keep reading to find out what could be causing your pain and how you can stop it.
Possible causes of regular headaches
Researchers haven’t definitively established what causes chronic headaches. However, certain factors have been identified as triggers: hormonal changes (such as those linked to the menstrual cycle), strong odours, bad posture, certain foods, and bright lights. The following are among the main factors that can contribute to the problem.
- Psychological stress. Fatigue, anxiety, and stress can trigger a headache. For example, when you feel stressed, you tend to contract your neck and scalp muscles; this eventually causes the onset of pain. A change in your sleep routine could also cause a headache.
- Work environment. Headaches may be caused by insufficient lighting at your workplace; poor light can cause eye fatigue. In addition, an improperly-adjusted computer screen can result in prolonged neck tension.
- Diet. If you get headaches all the time, you should avoid aged cheeses, chocolate, coffee, and wine. Skipping meals or eating at odd hours could also trigger a headache.
Not all headaches are the same
Not all people who wonder “Why do I get headaches all the time?” are experiencing the same kind of problem. There are two different types of headaches: tension headaches and migraines. Being able to tell the two apart will help you understand why you get them and what you can do about them.
Tension headaches
If you experience neck pain or a sensation of tightness around the forehead or the temples, you suffer from tension headaches. The pain, whether light or moderate, can last between 30 minutes and 7 days. Psychological factors and one’s work environment are the main triggers. Over-the-counter analgesics should be enough to get rid of the pain.
Migraines
A migraine attack can last between 4 and 72 hours and often includes nausea and sensitivity to light or noise. Sufferers usually feel throbbing pain or a pulsating sensation on one side of the head, and it increases with physical exertion. Hormones, fatigue, odours, and diet are all common causes. Over-the-counter medicine may not be sufficient to treat your migraines. A doctor can prescribe stronger medication, if necessary.
When should you see a doctor?
If you think they may be migraines, don’t hesitate to see a doctor or other healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Even if they’re only tension headaches, a doctor can help you find ways to deal with the stress that is causing them.
