Help for Holiday Headaches

with Anne Mattson, M.D., Family Practice, Advanced Healthcare

Last Updated: Dec. 1, 2003

Two of the most common headaches are tension headaches and migraines. According to Dr. Anne Mattson with Advanced Healthcare, “Both can be aggravated by bad habits around the holidays. During the holidays, many people don’t get enough sleep, they don’t eat as well and they may skip exercise.”

Anne Mattson, M.D., Family Practice, Advanced Healthcare "If you don't normally get headaches but are suffering from excruciating pain or vision changes, or if headaches are controlling your life, don't hesitate to see your doctor."

Migraine headaches
While the exact cause of migraines is unclear, holiday indulgences may be a factor. Some migraine triggers include alcohol, especially beer and red wine; aged cheeses; chocolate; caffeine and monosodium glutamate (MSG). Other triggers are hormonal changes in women, stress, and too much sleep or a lack of sleep.

Migraine treatments range from over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs to prescription medications and may also include resting in a darkened, quiet room with a cold compress. As Dr. Mattson pointed out, “The sooner you try to treat a migraine, the better chance you have of alleviating it.”

Tension headaches
Tension headaches can also be aggravated by holiday stress such as working longer hours, shopping, and planning parties. Unlike migraine pain, which is usually concentrated in one area, tension headaches tend to cause tightness over the forehead and scalp. Tension headaches often move into the neck and shoulders.

Pain medications, heat or ice, exercise, stretching, massage and acupuncture can help alleviate tension headaches.

Physical therapy, chiropractic care and self-relaxation – especially to help keep holiday stress in check – may help prevent them.

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