Headache a memory or a problem?

 

While the New Year weekend may be just a blur, the annual headache that often accompanies such celebrations could be fresh on your mind, according to the National Headache Foundation.

In a recent survey the foundation noted that while more than 81 percent of respondents said that they have experienced a hangover headache in the past, more than 79 percent planned to consume alcohol beverages while bringing in the New Year.

Even though most hangover headaches leave within a day or so with the proper care, some individuals have lingering effects, the foundation reported. Founded in 1970 as a non-profit organization to help persons with a tendency to experience headaches, the group provides educational and informational resources and support for headache research, recognizing the condition as a legitimate neurobiological disease.

 

The recent survey, published earlier in December, 2007, showed that alcohol is the principal cause of headaches, even if consumed in moderation. More than 30 percent of individuals surveyed reported that red wine was the most frequent cause of headaches for them.

Other factors contributing to debilitating headaches were stress, time restrictions, travel, migraines, financial problems and changes in the weather.

The foundation also listed ways to avoid headaches, no matter what the season. Dr. Lisa Mannix advised people who celebrate at any occasion to drink alcohol in moderation to avoid a hangover and to alternate alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages, such as water and carbonated drinks, which allow hydration and provide needed time to process the alcohol.

 

“Another way to avoid a headache hangover is to eat before and during the consumption of alcohol,” she insisted. If a headache occurs, she recommended ibuprofen over aspirin because the former is gentler on the digestive system.

Some individuals are very sensitive to alcohol and should avoid it entirely, added Suzanne Simons, executive director of the foundation. “It is essential to recognize what triggers your headaches and then avoid these triggers,” she explained. She added that it also is important to discuss ongoing headaches with a healthcare provider as they might suggest alternative options for care and prevention.