Headaches and the Workplace
Almost everyone has had a headache, and some people suffer headaches frequently. A minor headache is little more than an irritation that can be relieved by an over-the-counter pain medication, some food or coffee, or a short rest. But, in very rare cases, a severe or unusual headache may be a cause of concern as it may be a stroke, a tumour, or a blood clot.
What causes headaches?
Doctors know that the brain tissue and the skull are never responsible for headaches as they don’t have nerves that register pain. But the blood vessels in the head and neck can signal pain, as can the tissues that surround the brain and some major nerves that originate in the brain. The scalp, sinuses, teeth, and muscles and joints of the neck can also cause headaches.
What can cause headaches in the workplace:
- Smells
- Computer screens
- Fluorescent lights
- Stress
- Dehydration
- Sleep
- Caffeine and certain foods
- Beware the chair
- Skipping breakfast
- Fast food
- Motivational meetings
- Air conditioning
- Printer and copier odours
- Deadlines
- Uncomfortable shoes
How to get rid of a headache:
- Cold packs
- Heating pad or hot compress
- Ease pressure on your scalp
- Dim the lights
- Try not to chew
- Get some caffeine
- Practice relaxation
- Try massage
- Take medication in moderation
To get the most benefit with the least risk, follow the directions on the label and follow the instructions from your Doctor or Pharmacist
When to worry about a headache:
You can take care of many types of headaches by yourself, and your doctor can give you medication to control most of the tougher headaches. But some headaches call for prompt medical care. Here are some warning signs for when you should worry about headaches:
- Headaches that first develop after age 50.
- A major change in the pattern of your headaches.
- An unusually severe headache.
- Head pain that increases with coughing or movement.
- Headaches that get steadily worse.
- Changes in personality or mental function.
- Headaches that are accompanied by fever, stiff neck, confusion, decreased alertness or memory, or neurological symptoms such as visual disturbances, slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or seizures.
- Headaches that are accompanied by a painful red eye.
- Headaches that are accompanied by pain and tenderness near the temples.
- Headaches after a blow to the head.
- Headaches that prevent normal daily activities.
- Headaches that come on abruptly, especially if they wake you up.
- Headaches in patients with cancer or impaired immune systems.