11 Common Causes of Headaches in Daily Life
11 Common Causes of Headaches in Daily Life: Beer, Cheese, and Other Headache Triggers
Do you often get headaches but don't know why? Take a look at the following situations to see if any of them apply to you.
Being Slightly Overweight
A recent study found that women who are slightly overweight have a 35% higher risk of developing headaches than women with a lower body mass index. The risk for those who are severely overweight is nearly 80%.
A "Wooden Fish" Personality
Being particularly unique, rigid, conservative, or overly obsessed with certain things can increase your likelihood of developing headaches. If you have these personality traits, you need to adjust your mindset and relax quickly.
Sexual Activity
In a survey, about 46% of headache sufferers reported that sexual activity triggered their headaches. Typically, this is an exertion headache (a common occurrence for joggers and weightlifters). Some may feel a dull headache during foreplay, and a sudden headache at orgasm (more common in men). However, for most people, headaches triggered by sexual activity are harmless.
Sudden Relaxation
Dr. Alexander, a medical doctor who is the founder and director of the New York Headache Center and a co-author of the book "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Migraines," says that weekend headaches or relaxation headaches can occur during short breaks when you escape from a hectic work schedule.
Paint Fumes
The fumes from traditional paint can cause headaches. Many companies, realizing this, have started using odorless, low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paint formulas.
Dehydration
Dr. John, a medical doctor and author of "The Doctor Chef's Cookbook for You," says you don't need to drink several gallons of water a day to stay hydrated. If you can get more water from vegetables and fruits, you will also receive many other beneficial nutrients from them.
Skipping Meals
We know everyone is busy now, but it's important to understand that hunger is a common trigger for headaches.
Too Much Coffee
Dr. Hypon, a neurologist from New York, says that a small amount of coffee can help relieve headaches, but drinking too much can cause them. If caffeine has already triggered your headaches, limit your coffee intake to no more than two days a week.
Lack of Exercise
A recent study from Switzerland showed that people who are not physically active are more prone to headaches than those who exercise regularly. Exercising for 20-30 minutes a day, five days a week, can help you relieve stress, improve blood supply to the brain, and promote the flow of endorphins, which can boost your mood. However, it's worth noting that for some individuals, exercise may trigger other conditions, so it's advisable to consult a doctor before starting an exercise regimen.
Lack of Sleep
A study found that people who sleep an average of 6 hours are more likely to suffer from headaches, and their headaches are more severe and occur more frequently than those who get adequate sleep.
Food-Induced Headaches
Some foods can trigger headaches, such as red wine, beer, MSG, chocolate, cheese, and processed meats; while other foods (especially those rich in magnesium) can help prevent headaches, such as tofu, oat bran, barley, fish oil, olive oil, sunflower seeds, and pumpkin seeds.