Persistent headaches can be prevalent during pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. If you are experiencing them, you will be looking for possible solutions to help prevent or ease the pain. Below, our headache doctors highlight what causes pregnancy headaches and how you can find relief quickly and safely.
What causes pregnancy headaches?
Most headaches during pregnancy will take the form of tension headaches, which are predominantly brought about as a result of hormonal changes and fluctuations. Other possible headache pain triggers include sudden changes in your weight as you move through your pregnancy, as well as an increased blood volume, and altering sleep position irritating muscles and nerves.
Your pregnancy headaches can also be caused by dehydration in relation to throwing up regularly due to morning sickness – so be sure to drink plenty of water or sip on chamomile or ginger tea throughout the day to help ease nausea.
Low blood sugar levels can also trigger the onset of a headache, which is why headache specialists recommend eating smaller meals more frequently as opposed to three larger meals every day.
Finally, stress and lack of sleep can also cause pregnancy headaches. Preparing for a new baby can be a stressful time, after all. You likely have a lot on your to-do list, and you will probably be astounded at how quickly those nine months fly by! As for lack of sleep, pregnant women may find that their little ones are most active at night, making it difficult to drift off or stay asleep without waking frequently. In addition, falling asleep in uncommon positions can increase stress and tension on the neck and back.
How to treat pregnancy headaches
Aside from staying hydrated, eating more regularly, and getting as much rest as you can, the best pregnancy headache treatment is to visit a headache doctor like ours at The Head and Neck Centers of Excellence. They can help to figure out what is triggering your headaches and how to remedy them going forward.
The headache doctors at The Head and Neck Centers of Excellence specialize in AS remodeling protocol, which focuses on naturally relieving neck and body tension, specialize muscle work, and more. We are here to assist you in finding relief for your persistent headaches during pregnancy – and beyond. Get in touch today to make an appointment.
