Headaches can be debilitating, and up to 75% of adults worldwide experience headaches annually. There are 150 different types of headaches and their presentation can differ immensely. Headaches will fall under two different categories, either primary or secondary. Primary headaches result from neurochemical stress and are not associated with any underlying disease and secondary headaches are symptoms of a disease.
Primary headaches are the most common. Headaches and migraines are caused when disorganization develops in the nervous system. Disorganization in the nervous system alters the signaling patterns to blood vessels and muscles. When blood vessels that innervate the brain are affected, pain signals are relayed to the brain, which stimulates headache symptoms.
Causes of Disorganization in the Nervous System
- Misalignment of the spine
- Alcohol
- Depression
- Emotional Stress
- Medication Use
- Toxins
Steps to Avoid Headaches
- Regular corrective chiropractic care: Research has shown that chiropractic is very effective at decreasing headaches. Receiving regular corrective chiropractic care prevents the return of headaches after being treated by placing the spine in a position that allows for optimal nervous system functioning.
- Limit alcohol use.
- Manage stress with meditation. Mindfulness meditation is very effective in treating headaches.
- Remove toxic cleaners and hygiene products from homes. Many ingredients in common cleaners and hygiene products are neurotoxins. The environmental working group is a great resource to find safe alternatives.
- Print out a list of your medications and research any side effects. Then schedule time with your doctor to create a safe plan to come off your medications.