What's to blame?
By Laurie HerrCould it be something you ate? Not enough sleep? Want to know what could be causing your headache? Our comprehensive list just might help you out.
Your weight
In a recent study, researchers found that women with mild obesity (a body mass index of 30) had a 35% greater risk of headaches than those with a lower BMI. Severe obesity (BMI of 40) upped the chances to 80%.
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Headache Triggers
By Winnie Yu SchererSometimes you know exactly what's causing that pounding in your skull. Other times, you're blindsided. Headaches—whether debilitating migraines or less-painful-but-still-annoying tension headaches—are often set off or made worse by a key trigger, says Brian Grosberg, MD, director of the Inpatient Headache Program at Montefiore Headache Center in New York City.
Here, the seven most common pain provokers, and how to head off the hurt. (See your doctor if these DIY fixes don't do the trick; for those plagued by headaches, prescription meds may help
What kind of headache is it?
It's important to figure out what type of headache is causing your pain. If you know your headache type, you can treat it correctly.In one 2004 study, 80% of people who had a recent history of self-described or doctor-diagnosed sinus headache, but no signs of sinus infection, actually met the criteria for migraine.
Here are some tips that will put a name to your pain.
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Don't get your hopes up
By Anne HardingThe only way to avoid a pounding head and queasiness the morning after is to drink in moderation, or to stay away from alcohol entirely. But with all sorts of seasonal celebrations going on, it’s easy to overindulge.
Alternating your drinks with water or another nonalcoholic beverage can help you slow down and stay hydrated. If you still wind up with a hangover, you may be inclined to try one of the many supposedly tried-and-true remedies.
However, traditional hangover remedies are often ineffective, and some of them may actually make you feel worse.