Headaches are typical in the prenatal period. They usually become better as your fetus grows. They are not dangerous to your baby, but they may cause discomfort for you. A headache can signify preeclampsia, which can progress to significant consequences if not monitored and addressed. Pre-eclampsia typically manifests itself after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Migraine headaches are a prevalent type of pregnant headache. These intense, throbbing headaches are frequently felt on one side of the head and are caused by blood vessel expansion in the brain. The agony is sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and light sensitivity. A tiny minority of migraine sufferers also experience an aura. They experience flashes of light or tingling in their arms and legs.
Headaches During the Early Stages of Pregnancy
Many women endure headaches during pregnancy, especially in the first and third trimesters. If you're pregnant, you may notice an increase in the frequency of your headaches around week 9 of your pregnancy.
Headaches in the early stages of pregnancy can be caused by an increase in the volume of blood your body produces and hormonal changes.
Other suspected causes of pregnancy headaches include:
- sleeping insufficiently
- Caffeine withdrawal syndrome (e.g., in coffee, tea, or cola drinks)
- Dehydration due to low blood sugar
- feeling tense
- improper posture, especially as your child grows
- suffering from sadness or anxiety
The precise reason for a headache is not always apparent. Altered testosterone levels and tissue perfusion may contribute in the first trimester. A dull, generalized migraine can be accompanied by anxiety, extreme exhaustion (fatigue), and sore eyes. Nasal headaches may be more common during early pregnancy due to hay fever and runny nose. Appetite and low blood glucose levels can also cause headaches. Caffeine withdrawal headaches may occur in women who abruptly discontinue their morning coffee and drinks. Those who have morning sickness during early pregnancy may become exhausted. This can also cause a headache.
Treatment of Headaches During Pregnancy
If you're pregnant, the best pain reliever is paracetamol. If you must take paracetamol during pregnancy, take it for the shortest duration feasible. Your pharmacist, midwife, or GP can advise you on how much paracetamol you can take and for how long. Other medicines for treating headaches during pregnancy include pain relievers, such as those containing codeine and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, which should be avoided during pregnancy unless approved by your doctor. You can also make adjustments to help prevent and treat migraines.
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Pregnant women with migraine should avoid taking migraine medication. It is also recommended that you try to treat your headache without using the medicine for other types of headaches.
You could attempt:
- obtaining more sleep, rest, and relaxation
- Pregnancy yoga classes or other forms of exercise that promote healthy posture, especially later in your pregnancy
- eating regular, nutritious meals
- rubbing a warm facecloth over your eyes and nose, if you have a sinus headache
- If you have a lot of stress, apply an ice pack to the nape of the neck, take a bath, or use a hot pack.
- Massage of the neck and shoulders
Conclusion
If you get an intense headache that won't go away, or if you experience dizziness, blurred vision, or changes in your field of vision, you should see your doctor. Headaches in pregnancy might occasionally be linked to blood pressure issues. Inform your healthcare physician if they are persistent or severe and occur beyond 20 weeks of pregnancy. Although strokes during pregnancy are uncommon, headaches can raise a pregnant woman's risk. If you experience migraines, notify your healthcare provider.
Try the following to avoid or alleviate moderate headaches during pregnancy without using medication; Stay away from headache triggers. Avoid foods or fragrances that have previously given you a headache. A headache diary may assist you in identifying triggers. Make physical activity a part of your everyday routine. Try going for a daily stroll or another form of mild aerobic exercise. Control your tension. Find appropriate coping mechanisms for stressors. Use relaxing techniques. Experiment with deep breathing, yoga, massage, and visualization. Eat frequently. Eating regularly and eating a balanced diet may help reduce headaches. Drink plenty of fluids as well. Maintain a consistent sleep routine. A lack of sleep may exacerbate headaches during pregnancy. Think about biofeedback. You can learn to regulate specific biological functions with this mind-body approach.
Please book an appointment with the best Gynecologist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03100002273 to find the verified doctor for your disease.
