Headaches - The Great Productivity Killer

Headaches - The Great Productivity Killer

Headaches are one of the greatest productivity killers around. When you're trying to get something done, and a headache comes on, it's game over. Even if you try to make it through, you're not going to be nearly as productive and you're likely going to be more miserable than ever. While it's no fun, there are some natural and simple methods to cure your headache!

The Hidden Causes

In today’s pill-popping culture, drugs are often considered the first line of defense against headache pain. The problem? These drugs have a proven history of ineffectiveness. In addition, they’re loaded with potentially life threatening side effects.  All-natural alternatives, however —such as the type of chiropractic care we offer is safe, and an effective way to end many different types of headache pain.

As a provider of holistic health, we believe it’s important for patients and doctors to work together as a team. Because of our belief, today’s topic is on hidden headache triggers, and what our practice members can do to stop head pain in its tracks... all on your own.

1. Vertebral Subluxation

When spinal bones (vertebrae) are misaligned, the result is a common condition known as vertebral subluxation. This causes a restriction in movement affecting irritation of nerves and muscles to overwork: an underlying cause of headache complaints.   With safe, gentle manual maneuvers known as chiropractic adjustments the spine becomes balanced normalizing alignment and movement.

2. Neck Tension

Migraine and tension-type headaches are often present in patients reporting neck pain, according to researchers in Australia (Cephalalgia 2007;27:793- 802).

When neck muscles stiffen and contract —a chain of events frequently sparks poor posture the result is a tug-of-war with spinal bones: a scenario that often leads to the development of vertebral subluxations in the neck, mid back, and lower back.  That’s why medications often fail to alleviate headaches; they focus on symptoms sometimes without addressing the underlying root cause.

Chiropractic care, on the other hand, gets to the mechanical source of the matter if there is one. Numerous studies illustrate that chiropractic care successfully relieves neck pain and related muscle tension.  For instance, in one study of 119 patients, neck pain was reduced by a 54 percent after four weeks of chiropractic care, (approximately 12 visits). All without drugs, (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2000;23:307).

 3. Jaw Problems 

Headache is commonly associated with temporomandibular disorder, (TMD).  This can be a possible trigger or perpetuating factor of headache complaints, (Dent Clin North Am 2007;51:129-44).  

TMD is an acute or chronic inflammation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that connects the lower jaw to the skull.  A study of 1,940 children illustrated the TMD/headache link when it revealed that “the most common symptom of TMD was headache.” (J Oral Rehabil 2003;30:1200.)

 4. Eye Strain

Another well-known culprit of headache is eyestrain. Glaring computer monitors and vision difficulties (due to lack of corrective glasses or lenses) are two of the most common causes of eyestrain. Flickering fluorescent lights can also be a catalyst causing eye strain and headaches.  In the case of uncorrected hyperopia, (far-sightedness) and astigmatism, (irregularly shaped corneas), the eye’s muscles are forced to work harder to keep an image in clear focus —leading to tired or aching eyes, poor concentration, headaches and blurring of vision —especially with close-up work.

 5. Dehydration 

Dehydration —is another common cause of mid-day headaches, and is also one of the most simple to remedy.  To demonstrate this, researchers in the Netherlands enrolled 18 patients in a pilot study. All of the individuals suffered from migraine headache. In addition, two also had tension-type headache. Patients received either placebo, (fake) medication or the advice to drink 1.5 times more water than they typically consumed every day for 12 weeks.  There was no reported change in the placebo group.

However, those who increased their water intake “reduced the total hours of headache in two weeks time by 21 hours.”  Headache intensity also plummeted (Eur JNeurol 2005;12:715-8).

 6. Stress 

Emotional anxiety is one of the most common headache troublemakers.  Fortunately, you can diffuse this time bomb before it explodes.  To ward off a headache, practice at least one stress-busting technique on a daily basis. Winning techniques include:

Yoga, T’ai Chi or Pilates, Breathing Exercises, Meditation, 
Prayer, Hiking and Nature Walks, Laughter
, and Dancing.

 7. Obesity

Obesity is linked to an increased risk of severe headaches, according to research presented at the 57th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology. The study indicated that “chronic daily headaches were more prevalent in obese and morbidly obese people than in those with normal body weight.” (Nutr Today 2005:40:118.)

Obese people also reported severe pain more often than the other groups. Those with morbid obesity reported that the pain was usually severe 40.2 percent of the time.  If you’re overweight, shedding a few pounds may do wonders to alleviate headaches. Healthy weight-reduction strategies, such as daily exercise and a nutritious diet, are also independent headache-prevention factors.

 8. Medication Overuse

The continual use of headache and pain medications, 
prescriptive or over-the-counter (OTC) —particularly those containing barbiturates and caffeine, amplifies the odds of developing what’s known as medication overuse headache (MOH).  According to scientists, “Medication overuse headache is a clinically important entity and it is now well documented.” (JHeadache Pain 2005;6:199.)

 Pain relieving medications also tend to lower blood levels of serotonin: the “feel good” chemical affecting emotion, behavior and cognitive processing. “The principal approach to management of MOH is built around cessation of overused medication,” note researchers. “Without discontinuation of the offending medication, improvement is almost impossible to attain.” (JHeadache Pain 2005;6:199.)

This is particularly true in the case of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs because of their ease of accessibility.  It’s estimated that six out of every 10 patients with migraine treat their headaches exclusively with OTC products: ranging from acetaminophen and aspirin to ibuprofen and aspirin-acetaminophen-caffeine combinations.  This excessive reliance “contributes to preventable morbidity [ill health] and drug-induced headaches.” (Pharmacotherapy 2003;23:494-505.)

When it comes to OTC options, non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may pose the greatest threat. In addition to contributing to MOH, these drugs increase the risk and likelihood of stomach ulcers, and double the risk of developing heart failure (Arch Intern Med 2000;160:777-84).

 9. Hormones

According to a study published earlier this year, migraine headache is three times more common in women than men, “occurring in 18.2 percent of women and 6.5 percent of men. The prevalence significantly increases during the peak reproductive years of women (aged 20-50 years), which represents a period of cyclic fluctuations in ovarian hormones as a result of the menstrual cycle.” (J Fam Pract 2007;56:13.)

 The researchers noted how pregnancy and menopause can also alter the frequency and disability of preexisting migraine attacks “or may lead to the new onset of migraine in some women.” Instead of resorting to drugs —many of which have potentially serious side effects —talk about adding a good magnesium supplement to your diet.  In a study of 20 patients with menstrual migraine, sufferers received magnesium (360 mg daily) or placebo beginning on the 15th day of their menstrual cycle and continuing until the next menses for two months. “The patients who received magnesium had a significant reduction in pain scores, number of days with headache, and other menstrual complaints.” (J Fam Pract 2007;56:13.)

 10. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning  

Although rare, one of the most preventable, and deadly causes of headache is carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.  According to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, “Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced by all internal combustion engines including diesel and propane-powered engines.  It’s also produced by burning wood, paper or plastic products and from welding when carbon dioxide shielding gas is used.”  Fortunately, specially designed detectors can monitor your home’s air for the presence of this deadly gas.  If you don’t already own a CO detector make sure to pick one up today.  Other common fumes and odorless gasses may also cause headaches.

 Rely on All-Natural Relief

Periodic chiropractic care is the key to preventing pain and illness. The focus of the chiropractic approach is warding off health complaints before they occur.  However, if headache does strike, don’t just reach for drugs… because the 5- most dangerous words are: Maybe. It. Will. Go. Away.  Instead, consider the all-natural relief options that we offer below. 

The Quick and Natural Way to Cure Headaches

The idea behind relieving a headache is to do it naturally and quickly. There are plenty of over-the-counter medications, but they have their own side effects that just create a new problem. If taken too frequently, headache medicines may even lose their effectiveness. Here are some natural headache remedies that you can use to quickly eliminate your headache:

If you're at home, take a warm bath. Many headaches are caused by contracted muscles and a hot bath will relax those muscles. This is especially great for tension headaches.

If it is a stress headache, exercising can relieve it. Taking a walk to increase blood circulation can help dramatically.

If the headache is caused by dehydration, drinking water can help, but it may take several glasses until the problem is solved.

To relieve a tension headache, massage the shoulders and neck can.  This is because the tightened muscles causing the headache are loosened.

For a caffeine, sinus, or allergy headache, a cold or hot compress can make the headache go away.

Too little or too much sleep can cause headaches. Try to sleep the same hours every night. You also want to try to keep a consistent bedtime.

Try not to sit, stand, or work in the same position for long periods of time. This can put strain on your back, shoulders, and neck. This strain can lead to a tension headache, so change position frequently to keep this from occurring.

If bright lights make your head hurt, avoid them. If you already have a headache, try to sit in a room with minimal light. People with migraines tend to benefit from this technique.

Reduce your intake of caffeine in order to avoid caffeine headaches. This can be one of the worst types of headaches. Unfortunately, there are many people who attempt to solve this headache by taking in more caffeine. The problem is that this type of headache tends to be caused by caffeine withdrawal, so it's a catch 22.

Avoid foods that trigger headaches. If you notice a pattern that your head hurts after eating a certain food, that is your sign to avoid it. Try eating organic fruits and vegetables because of their nutritional value and health benefits. 
Since everyone is different, different remedies will work for different people. You may need to experiment to find out which one is going to work best for you. Once you find your remedy, stick to it. 


So there you have it.  Ten things that cause headaches, and tens ways to get rid of them.  
You can prevent headaches by controlling your stress levels, exercising, eating balanced meals and getting adjusted periodically. All of these go hand-in-hand because stress can be relieved by more than exercising and eating healthy foods. It may require a lifestyle change as well, but you'll not only feel better but you'll relieve the majority of your headaches in the process! 
By implementing these changes and eliminating your headaches, you'll boost your quality of life and get more done more productively.

 Bless and Be Blessed... ALWAYS

 

Lewis Meltz

What Triggers Asthma... and Other Household Hazards

Home Care Solution for Chronic Asthma

It’s important to know about asthma triggers, and startling new research shows how using common spray cleaners, and air fresheners, as little as just once per week, may be all it takes to spark asthma. The landmark study, published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, is the first to focus exclusively on asthma triggered by everyday products consumers use in their homes and offices on a regular basis. “The relative risk rates of developing adult asthma in relation to exposure to cleaning products could account for as much as 15%, or about one in seven of all adult asthma cases,” noted the researchers (Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2007;176:735-41).

In this study, researchers enrolled more than 3,500 patients from 10 European countries ⅔rds of whom were women —in the study. Spray cleaners investigated included products for furniture and glass. Whether the spray cleaners featured aerosol or a pump action wasn’t noted.  Dr. Meltz, however, points out that both methods propel content droplets into the air. Consumers, in turn, inhale these droplets into their lungs. Dr. Meltz is concerned about the increasing number of household irritants that can spark asthma episodes. Fortunately, there’s something you can do about it!  Discovering how to identify common irritants by reading label contents, you can help ward off respiratory distress, and possible intoxication for you and your family.

Keep track of how often allergies trigger asthma attacks. If you experience two or more asthma attacks a week after taking over-the-counter allergy medicine, switch to a different retail allergy medication. Most medical professionals concur that it may be harmful to endure two or more attacks on a weekly basis, and that it is completely preventable with the right prescriptive medications.

TIP! If you or one of your family members is an asthmatic, it is key to keep your home clean and dust free, in order to help prevent asthma attacks. Frequent vacuuming is an important part of controlling the allergens that occupy a home.

Chlorine Bleach Fumes

After reviewing the medical records of 160 domestic cleaning women, researchers in Spain concluded that the women’s asthma symptoms were directly linked to their exposure to bleach and similarly irritating cleaning agents. “The public health impact of the use of irritant cleaning products could be widespread since the use of these products is common both in the workplace and at home.” (Occup Environ Med 2005;62:598-606.)  Own a dishwasher? Then you may be exposing yourself and your family to chlorine fumes as well. That’s because many automatic dishwasher detergents contain dry chlorine that is activated when it’s exposed to water in the dishwasher. Clouds of invisible chlorine gas are then released in the steam vented out of the dishwasher, and into your home during each cleaning cycle.

Cleaning With Liquid Ammonia

In a study of 332 nurses and other health-care professionals, researchers observed that those who used ammonia and/or bleach experienced increased risks of new-onset asthma (Occup Environ Med 2007;64:474-9).

If you have received a diagnosis of asthma, you are not to smoke or be near vapors or other types of fumes. This means avoiding tobacco products, and making sure that you do not choose any kind of job that could expose you to harmful vapors or smoke, such as factory work, or working with volatile petroleum products, as found in nail and hair salons, wood finishing, lumber or grain mills.

TIP! Rescue inhalers will become your most dependable ally when you suffer from the effects of asthma. This medication provides temporary and quick relief.

Try Avoiding These Also

Look for organic or less-toxic formulations of the following: Toilet bowl cleaners —Contain chlorine and other lung irritating chemicals. Carpet cleaners —Particularly toxic to children. Dryer sheets —Chemical ingredients include chloroform. Laundry detergents —Contain ammonia.

TIP! Do you know what type of asthma you have? If you identify your specific causes, you can be prepared to treat the symptoms when they appear during your daily routines. A perfect example is that if you have asthma caused by exercise you should put a inhaler in your locker or gym bag.

Prenatal Warnings and Concerns

Did you know that the frequent use of chemically based products prior to conception, or during a pregnancy is associated with persistent wheezing in young children? That’s the conclusion researchers made based on a survey of women who recorded how frequently they used 11 chemical-based domestic products during their pregnancies (Thorax 2005;60:45-9).

Children born to women who eat apples during pregnancy, however, have a significantly decreased risk of asthma and wheezing. These findings are from a study that tracked the dietary intake of 1,253 mother-child pairs over a five-year period. The only other positive association between prenatal diet and the risk reduction of asthma in children? Mom’s consumption of omega-3 essential fatty acids found abundantly in cold water fish (Thorax 2007;62:772-8).

TIP! Consider supplementing your diet with Vitamins E and C when you suffer from asthma. It is widely believed that these vitamins can help control asthma symptoms by improving lung function.

Off-Gassing Triggers

Household chemicals aren’t restricted to just cleaning products. They can also be found in everyday items, even as innocent looking as the new lamp or curtains in the baby’s bedroom.

Imagine, for the last few weeks, your little one has had a slight cough. In fact, the longer the baby is in their room, the worse the cough gets. Ironically, the cough and the arrival of the lamp or curtains were at the same time. Coincidence? Maybe. But it’s just as likely that the culprit is the fumes off-gassing from the synthetic materials used.

It's important to become as knowledgeable as possible about asthma. When you're knowledgeable about your condition, you'll be able to advocate for yourself and seek out the best possible treatment. Keep up to date on the different treatments and always be sure to have the best possible care for yourself. You can easily know this information by further developing your knowledge about your condition, as well as, discovering treatment options.

TIP! Schedule regular visits with your doctor to check up on your asthma. Ideally these should occur every few months.

In Taiwan, a study of 2,290 fifth graders found that exposure to chemical fumes from off-gassing was clearly associated with all seven respiratory symptoms considered in the study —including exercise-induced coughing (J Asthma 2006;43:355-61). Even new furniture and painted walls can trigger an asthma crisis.  Among 96 homes in Quebec City, Canada, researchers identified high concentrations of formaldehyde in homes with new wooden or melamine furniture purchased in the previous 12 months, “and in those homes where painting or varnishing had been done in the sampled room in the previous twelve months.” (Environ Res 2006;102:1-8.) The good news? The same researchers say that “increasing air change rates in homes could reduce exposure to this compound.” What that means, is open a window and improve the ventilation.

Copy Machine Toner and Computer Printer Ink

Avoid anything that could trigger your asthma. This can vary from person to person, as small particles like dust can cause asthma attacks. For other people it may physical activities that will set them off. Try to see what cause your asthma so that you can avoid it.

TIP! Using more than 4 different kinds of cleaning products for your house has been known to increase risks associated to asthma attacks. To limit the chemicals in the air, look for organic cleaning alternatives.

Whether you work from home, or simply have a room set aside for paying bills and surfing the Internet, chances are you own at least one computer and printer, maybe even a copy machine. And, if you're like countless other families, your children have their own computers and printers: most likely in their bedrooms.

But did you know that your printer —just like the chemically based cleaning supplies —may also trigger asthma and other respiratory problems?

According to the results of a recently published study, Australian researchers found that 40 percent of the 62 office printers they tested released high levels of ultra-fine particles into the air. These particles, like those found in cigarette smoke, are subsequently inhaled into the lungs (Environ Sci Technol 2007;41:6039).

Obesity and Asthma 

In a more recent study, it was found that obesity was associated with poor asthma control.  Furthermore, it's influenced most by airway inflammation stemming from oxidative stress. Often times those affected most seriously resort to using steroid inhalers causing other complications (Biochim Biophys Acta. 2011 Nov;1810(11):1120-6. Epub 2011 Sep 14).  If you are prescribed asthma medication, and you find yourself without your inhaler or medication when you have an asthma attack, find some caffeine. Many people have found that consuming black tea, coffee or chocolate may lessen the effects of an attack. The caffeine constricts your blood vessels and leads to the opening of your airways while other compounds in chocolate have similar effects.

TIP! Your home can be full of the major triggers leading to an asthma attack. These include mold, dust and spores.

Toner coverage —in this case, more is not better —and cartridge age influenced the amount of particles released into the air. Using printers in well ventilated areas, however, can reduce the amount of free-floating particles and leave you breathing easier.

Respiratory Function Improved With Chiropractic Care

In addition to reducing household chemicals, you can also boost lung function with regularly scheduled chiropractic care. I typically recommend every 90- days, or at the change of every season… just about twice as often as most would choose to get their teeth cleaned.

If you tend to suffer from any allergies or asthmatic conditions, always clean vaporizers very thoroughly, as well as humidifiers and any associated apparatus. Bacteria could breed in this moist environment and get into the air once you turn the humidifier on.

TIP! When you have asthma, it is vital that you avoid cleaning products. Cleaning products may contain chemicals which can trigger an asthmatic episode, such as ammonia.

A recent Australian study explored the effect of combining chiropractic manual therapy with exercise on respiratory function in 20 healthy, nonsmoking individuals. The results showed that “manual therapy appears to increase the respiratory function of normal individuals.” What’s more, this type of treatment —received before exercise —may allow patients to exercise longer because of their boosted respiratory function (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2007;30:509-13). The connection? Misaligned vertebrae and ribs may restrict lung function and impede breathing. Doctors of chiropractic use safe and gentle maneuvers known as chiropractic adjustments to restore the restricted movement of spinal bones (vertebrae): a common condition known as vertebral subluxation, or fixation.

Talk to Dr. Meltz

If you or someone in your family is having occasional episodes of wheezing, this could be a sign of mild environmental asthma, and you should schedule an appointment with your doctor today for a complete chiropractic checkup.

The development of asthma symptoms can occur over time and they can be difficult to pinpoint and diagnose. There are actually many people that have passed away from an asthma attack without ever knowing they were even at risk. If you have any trouble catching your breath, or a cough that won't go away, consider talking to your doctor to make sure that you aren't afflicted with asthma. Other more serious signs of respiratory distress include frequent chest pain, sudden difficulty breathing, or regular shortness of breath. These are much more serious concerns, and should be considered a medical emergency equally as serious as bleeding, poisoning, or shock. 

Don’t wait until a full-fledged asthma attack or worse, leaves you, or a loved one, breathless. 

Bless, and be blessed... Always

 

Lewis Meltz