Lesser-Known Headache Triggers and How to Avoid Them

Headaches are one of the most common ailments people across the world face. Research shows that about one in six Americans report having severe headaches or migraines. 

When you develop a headache, it could be caused by several factors. Some of the most common are stress, insufficient sleep, dehydration, or hunger. 

However, many people may not be aware of some lesser-known triggers of headaches, such as temperature changes or heavy scents.

Whatever triggers your headaches, Sathya Bhandari, MD, will get to the bottom of it at Liberty Pain Associates in Flower Mound, Alliance/Keller, and Fort Worth, Texas. 

Dr. Bhandari is a triple board-certified physician whose specialty is in pain management. For more than 20 years, she has helped people living with headaches and other forms of pain find long-lasting treatment.  

Learn more about the more uncommon triggers for a headache and how you can avoid them. 

Uncommon causes of headaches 

Some of the more uncommon causes of headaches include:

Changes in weather and temperature

Severe and sudden changes in weather and temperature could cause some people to develop a headache. If you've just moved to a place with a vastly different climate than you are used to, it's crucial to dress appropriately to prevent headaches.  

Bright lights 

If you have severe headaches or migraines, you might have noticed you become sensitive to bright lights when you have a headache. In the same vein, being exposed to bright lights like fluorescents could trigger a headache. Avoid this by reducing your exposure to artificial light sources and wearing sunglasses. 

Certain perfumes and scents 

Certain perfumes and scents could trigger headaches in some people, especially those sensitive to strong smells. If your nose becomes irritated or you develop a headache when exposed to heavy fragrances, you should opt for fragrance-free products. 

Drinking coffee regularly 

Caffeine is an uncommon trigger for headaches in certain people. If you drink coffee regularly and have unexplainable headaches, try reducing your intake or completely cutting coffee out of your diet. 

Consuming artificial sweeteners and food additives

Many foods contain artificial sweeteners and additives like monosodium glutamate (MSG). These additives can cause headaches in some people. Avoid this by switching to natural and unprocessed foods whenever possible. 

If you have frequent headaches, pay attention to your environment and lifestyle habits. This will help you identify and avoid the patterns that trigger your headaches. Doing so can reduce the frequency and severity of your headaches and improve your overall quality of life.

Not knowing the trigger for your recurring headaches can be frustrating. At Liberty Pain Associates, we can not only help you figure it out, but also help you find long-lasting treatment. Book an appointment with us online today or call 972-355-9038.