Manage the headache of tough financial times

(NC)—It's no secret that the global economic recession is causing financial troubles for many Canadian families. From high interest debt to frozen wages or even lost jobs, worrying about cash flow creates stress, which can cause more than just headaches for some.

While a tension headache is the most common form of head pain, nearly 10 per cent of the North Americans population suffers from the potentially debilitating migraine headache. Not surprisingly, the most frequent trigger for headache is stress.

“While stress can be exhilarating, it can also have detrimental effects on your health and life including high blood pressure, migraines, headaches and irritability,” explains Marla Warner, stress management therapist. “As a society we tend to be stressed, add to that the recent economic downturn, and many Canadians may be experiencing these symptoms. It's important to find ways to alleviate and manage stress for mental and physical health.”

Migraines are a recurrent headache disorder that are three times more likely to affect women than men and are most prevalent in adults between 20 and 50. Often accompanied by nausea, migraines may be triggered by stress, certain foods, hormone levels and lack of sleep. Common symptoms include:

• Throbbing or pulsating pain on one side of the head

• Moderate to severe pain intensity

• Nausea and/or vomiting

• Sensitivity to light, noise and smells

• Worsening of headache with routine physical activity

“Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, can be used to reduce mild to moderate pain associated with headaches and migraines,” continues Warner. “When used as directed, acetaminophen is an effective treatment for most people because it doesn't cause stomach upset and is least likely to interact with other medications. Products such as Tylenol Migraine Pain Ultra Relief may be especially effective for moderate migraine pain because it combines Extra Strength Tylenol with caffeine, which acts as a pain relief enhancer.”

Consider making lifestyle changes or trying some stress management exercises to help reduce the frequency or severity of migraines and headaches. If headaches occur regularly or are increasing in frequency or severity, speak with a doctor to determine your best course of action.

For more information about stress and headaches, visit www.livingwell.ca.

Source: www.newscanada.com
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