In the commotion of daily life, stress has become a common feeling for many. Whether you are a college student facing midterms, or a parent trying to prepare for the holiday season, stress is not a stranger. It’s not uncommon to experience headaches when stress levels soar. In this blog, we’ll explain the connection between stress and headaches, as well as explain when it might be important to seek medical attention for lingering headache pain.
For same-day care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Back Bay. Our board-certified medical providers are dedicated to treating each patient on a walk-in basis. We provide personalized care for college students, families, children, adults, business travelers, and more. Simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance by scheduling an appointment below!
Understanding Stress-Related Headaches
Stress is known to various different forms of headaches. Tension headaches, characterized by a dull, squeezing sensation, are commonly associated with stress. When stress builds up, it can often lead to muscle tension– especially in the neck and scalp– while contributes to this type of headache. Additionally, stress can execerable other types of headaches, including migraines. While migraines have various triggers, stress is a significant contributor. It can intensify the frequence and severity of migraines, which makes them more challenging to manage.
While under stress, the body releases hormones which can lead to muscle tension. This tension often moves upward which causes headaches. Additionally, stress can affect sleep patterns and dietary changes which can also provoke headaches.
How To Manage Stress-Related Headaches
Managing stress is crucial to prevent stress-induced headaches. Here are a few strategies to help alleviate stress and potentially reduce headaches:
1. Relaxation Techniques: Practice relaxation methods like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to calm your mind and reduce muscle tension.
2. Regular Exercise: Engage in physical activity on a regular basis to release endorphins, which can help combat stress and reduce the frequency of headaches.
3. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, get quality sleep, limit caffeine and alcohol intake, and stay hydrated. These factors influence headaches
4. Stress Management: Identify stress triggers and find healthy ways to cope. This could include journaling, making to-do lists, talking to a friend, or seeking professional health.
5. Seek Medical Care: If your headaches persist or worsen, despite your efforts to manage stress, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional for a full evaluation as there could be another underlying cause for your headaches.
Get Same-Day Relief at AFC Urgent Care Back Bay
Stress can undeniably cause headaches, impacting the quality of life for many people. Understanding the relationship between stress and headaches is the first step to managing them effectively. While stress management techniques can be helpful, it’s important to seek medical care when headaches become severe, frequent, or interfere with daily activities. Urgent care centers offer valuable diangostic testing and treatment plans for those suffering from headaches. At AFC Urgent Care Back Bay, your health and well-being is our top priority.
The center is open seven days a week and is conveniently located at 575 Boylston St. in Boston, MA. Just walk-in and we’ll provide further guidance on how to manage symptoms. For more information about services we provide, please walk-in or call us directly at (617) 869-0500.
