Though headaches are a part of life, pregnancy headaches
cannot be solved by popping painkillers. Pregnancy
is a time when you have to look for alternatives to
deal with this ache. If you used to have tension headaches
it is probable that it will persist during pregnancy.
But if you had migraine attacks before, you might
actually have fewer episodes and in some cases it
disappears totally during pregnancy. The reverse can
also be true, whereby now that you are pregnant you
become more susceptible to headaches. Factors that
cause you headaches during pregnancy:
• hormones
• tension
• fatigue
• diet
• sinus congestion
• eyestrain
• depression
• allergies
• hunger and dehydration
If it has to be headache medicines
then paracetamol is preferred over aspirin and ibuprofen;
in fact the latter two should be avoided when you
are pregnant. But you should also try other strategies:
• Take breaks, especially if you are still
working. Occasionally get away from your computer
screen and get some fresh air
• Make it a point to take cat naps or proper
naps
• Try cold compress for tension headaches;
hold a damp cool cloth to your forehead or nape
• Get your partner to massage your neck and
shoulders and back
• Apply warm compress around your eyes and
nose for sinus headaches
• Have a warm shower and wash your hair
•
Food. Eat something in
small portions frequently, preferably a carbohydrate-based
snack; sometimes headaches are caused when blood
sugar drops
•
Water. Headaches can result
because of dehydration
•
Exercise. Lack of physical
activity increases the tendency for head pains.
Nothing strenuous but some form of light exercise
like walking or swimming helps
• Incorporate some relaxation time into your
schedule by practicing yoga, meditation to ease
tension away
• Finally get your vision checked, it could
just be an eyesight thing; during pregnancy the
change in eyeball shape causes lens to no longer
be a proper fit or what you need is a pair of new
glasses. You may probably have to discontinue using
your contact lens for a while.
• If your headache is accompanied by blurry
vision or flashing lights, it could be migraine or
the more severe preeclampsia
• If headaches interfere with sleep
• If the pain is unbearable
• If the headaches are happening too frequently
i.e. more than once a week
