For many, headaches are more than just a nuisance. Whether the pain is a moderate ache or a severe throbbing, all over or localized to one area, headaches and the other symptoms they may cause (sensitivity to light, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, to name a few) can severely impair a person’s quality of life.There are several techniques that headache sufferers can use to help manage their symptoms:
- Reduce emotional stress by learning relaxation skills like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation.
- Reduce physical stress by stretching periodically, especially after sitting for a long period of time. Also make sure you get enough sleep – 7 or 8 hours per night is best for most adults.
- Exercise regularly. It’s important to get at least 20 minutes of exercise three times a week.
- Keep a routine. Try to eat meals and snacks at approximately the same times every day.
- Quit smoking. Not only can smoking trigger a headache, but it can also make one worse. Need help quitting? GBMC offers American Lung Association Freedom from Smoking Classes.
- Learn what triggers your headaches by keeping a diary. When you know what causes your headaches, you can take avoidance measures in the future.
If you have persistent headache pain that isn’t relieved by over-the-counter medications, or if it prevents you from taking part in normal daily activities, consider talking to a doctor. The physicians at the new GBMC Center for Neurology may be able to help! Dr. Michael Sellman, Dr. James Bernheimer and Dr. Arash Taavoni opened the 4,000-square-foot center on July 1, 2013 and are currently accepting new patients. The center is well equipped to care for patients with neurologic conditions such as headaches, stroke, epilepsy, carpal tunnel syndrome and pinched nerves in the neck or back. Many tests and some treatments can be performed within the office.
Please call 443-849-4145 for more information or to schedule an appointment.