About 30 to 80 percent of the adult population in the United States suffers from occasional tension-type headaches. Chronic daily tension-type headaches affect approximately 3% of the population; women are twice as likely to suffer from them as men. An over-the-counter pain reliever may be enough to calm the occasional morning headache. If morning pain becomes a frequent event, your doctor or a headache specialist can pinpoint the problem and help you find a solution.

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Occasional Headaches
Different Headaches And Their Causes
Occasional Headache On Right Side Of Head
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Headache In Back Of Head

Nearly all women have occasional headaches, but having a headache in pregnancy is not fun. And, managing headaches is especially tricky in the first trimester when you should avoid many medicines. Whether your headache is from tension or is a full-blown migraine, there are some things you should know.

What causes headaches in pregnancy?

The exact cause of a headache isn’t always clear. In the first trimester, changing hormone levels and blood volume may play a role. A dull, overall headache can come with stress, fatigue, and eyestrain. Sinus headaches may be more likely because of the nasal congestion and runny nose that are common in early pregnancy. Hunger and low levels of blood sugar can trigger headaches, too. Women who suddenly stop their morning coffee and sodas may experience caffeine withdrawal headaches. Those who also suffer with nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy can become dehydrated. This can also bring on a headache.

Migraine headaches are a common type of headache in pregnancy. These painful, throbbing headaches are usually felt on one side of the head and result from expansion of the blood vessels in the brain. The misery is sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light. A small percentage of women with migraines also have an aura with the migraine. They see flashes of light or feel tingling in their arms and legs.

When should I be concerned?

When a headache is severe, or just doesn’t go away, or when you have dizziness, blurred vision, or changes in your field of vision, you should contact your healthcare provider. Headaches can sometimes be related to blood pressure problems in pregnancy. If they are persistent or severe and happen after 20 weeks of pregnancy, let your healthcare provider know. Although strokes during pregnancy are rare, migraines can increase a pregnant woman’s risk for them. If you have migraines, report them to your healthcare provider.

What can I do about headaches?

Steps to manage headaches include the following:

Avoid any known headache triggers, including allergens and certain foods, like monosodium glutamate, cured meats, and strong cheeses.
Smoking is never a good idea in pregnancy. You should also avoid secondhand smoke.
Try to eat well and drink plenty of fluids, especially if you are prone to morning sickness.
Reduce your stress level. Try a massage or cold pack to help with tension headaches.
If your headache is a migraine, rest in a cool, dark room with no noise, and try using warm or cold compresses or an ice pack.

There is good news, however. Most women have fewer headaches during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester. And those with a history of migraines often find there is improvement during pregnancy.

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10 Most Common Headache Triggers

It’s not just loud music or a tight deadline or even an impending visit from your mother-in-law. With so much going on, it can be hard to avoid headaches, but there are a few common (and unexpected) things you can learn to avoid to prevent pain in the future.

10 / Anxiety

Stress can take a toll on you. Breathe, relax and take a stroll.

9 / Glare

Brightness from your computer screen, sunlight or overhead lights can make things painful. Turn it down and try adding a desk lamp.

8 / Noise

It’s not just loud, repetitive sounds. Even lower level on continuous noise can hurt. Calming music and headphones may help.

7 / Eating + Sleeping Patterns

Eat when you’re hungry. Sleep enough (not too much or too little), and don’t sleep in an odd position in a cold room – it can make your muscles spasm.

6 / Medication

Some prescription medications may have the potential to trigger a headache. If you notice an increase, talk to your doctor.

5 / Physical Activity

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Take it easy in the gym. Pushing too hard can result in an exertional headache from the swelling of blood vessels in your head, neck and scalp.

4 / Lack of Physical Activity

Even though over-exertion can increase your risk for headaches, staying sedentary doesn't help either. As with most things in life, moderation is key. Talk to your doctor before beginning or revising any exercise regimen.

3 / Posture

Your mom was right! Sit up straight to keep blood flowing (and move around when you can if you spend extended periods of time bent over a desk).

Occasional Headaches

2 / Hormones

Different Headaches And Their Causes

When estrogen levels drop (especially right before your period), you may be more likely to get a headache. Keep track of your cycle and plan when you can.

1 / Food Sensitivities

Occasional Headache On Right Side Of Head

Food and drink release neurotransmitters, which can cause headaches in some people. Triggers include aspartame, caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, cheese and more.

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“So what should I do?”

Headache In Back Of Head

Well, every body is different. But knowing what works for you (and what doesn’t) can help you avoid headaches in the future. Listen to your body. It’s smarter than you think! Experiment and see what works for you.