All I Want for the Holidays is Headache Relief

It’s the most wonderful time of year! Holiday lights are strung, children are writing letters to Santa, and the mistletoe is hung where couples can stop for that magical kiss. But you’re rushing from store to store for those last minute gifts and shopping on your lunch break instead of eating. How is your dedication rewarded? You get a massive headache. Your increased stress and decreased sleep can be one of a number of contributing factors to those holiday headaches, but don’t let this “Scrooge” you over. Headache relief is near!

The National Headache Foundation recommends a few tips to avoid holiday headaches and headache relief.

• Maintain your regular sleep schedule. Holiday parties and late night shopping may interfere with you going to bed at a decent hour, but try to get about 8 hours of sleep a night.

• Don’t forget to eat! That sale may only be for a few hours but grab a nutritious snack and bring it along with you.

• Drink in moderation. If you do partake in some holiday cocktails, sip them slowly; try to go for the mixed drinks containing fruit or vegetable choices as they may have less negative side effects than straight alcohol. If you suffer from migraines try to avoid red wine as it could trigger a migraine.

• Watch what you eat. Foods such as ripened cheese, chocolate, and processed meats can trigger headaches. Monitor your caffeine intake and avoid or limit colas, coffee, and tea.

• Mind your nose. Perfume scents can trigger a headache and so can smoke. Try to avoid smoking areas and limit the scents you wear and spray around your house or workplace.

• Remember to set aside personal time. The holidays can certainly be stressful but try to schedule some “me” time. Go for a walk, take a break from the festivities, schedule a massage, or just kick your feet up and relax.

There are a few other things you can to do help get relief from those pesky headaches. Chiropractic treatment is one option, even if you suffer from migraines. Several clinical trials indicate that spinal manipulation therapy may help treat migraine headaches. In one study of people with migraines, 22% of those who received chiropractic manipulation reported more than a 90% reduction of attacks. Also, 49% reported a significant reduction of the intensity of each migraine.

Another study published in the British Medical Journal shows that acupuncture can help relieve and prevent headaches and migraines. The researchers discovered that out of those who participated in the study, 22% had fewer days with headaches, 15% used less medication, and 15% took fewer days off from work due to headaches. These results show a general improvement in the quality of life for those people who suffer from headaches.

Performance Rehabilitation and Integrated Medicine offers treatment options to help relieve your holiday headaches. Contact us at 908-756-2424 for an appointment.