Headaches in Pregnancy

Headaches are very distressing but the fact that they may occur more frequently in pregnancy and the treatment options in pregnancy are limited, makes it even more disturbing and scary for a pregnant woman.

First of all, a pregnant mom who is suffering from headaches, please be assured you are not alone. Many moms are afflicted by it and more so in the first trimester and again in the third trimester.

 

What causes these headaches in pregnancy in first trimester?

  1. Pregnancy itself increases the incidence due to the hormonal surges and increased blood volume.
  2. Vomiting and less intake of water and food leads to dehydration, low blood sugar and intense fatigue leading to headaches.
  3. Lack of sleep and stress too can be a cause
  4. If you are a coffee person, withdrawal of coffee during pregnancy may be responsible.
  5. If you were suffering from migraine before pregnancy , the headaches persisting in frst trimester may be migraine.

 

Also Read: GAS PROBLEM DURING PREGNANCY

Should I be worried about these headaches?

You need to tell your obstetrician if these headaches are persistent and not relieved by simple measures. She may ask for few investigations, check your blood pressure and may refer to a neurologist for further evaluation.

Headaches in third trimester may be a sign of you developing high blood pressure or PET. So, please keep a tab on your blood pressure and consult your obstetrician if you are concerned.

 

 

How can I treat and get rid of these headaches?

  1. You can take a tablet of 500 mg of paracetamol safely in pregnancy
  2. Avoid taking any other pain relief medication
  3. Rest in a dark and quiet room
  4. Take enough of fluids if you have been having vomiting
  5. Your sugars may be low if you have not eaten anything. So, take a carbohydrate rich diet.
  6. You can get a head massage, apply oil or compresses
  7. Take a warm shower bath
  8. You can get your eye power checked as you may be needing spects.

What foods should I avoid to prevent headaches?

Though there is not enough evidence, it following food products can be a trigger for headaches and should be avoided.

  • Chocolate
  • Alcohol
  • Yogurt
  • Aged cheese
  • Peanuts
  • Bread with fresh yeast
  • Preserved meats
  • Sour cream

 

 

When should I urgently contact my doctor?

  • If you do not experience any relief from the above remedies and medication
  • Your headaches get worse or more persistent
  • You experience headaches that are different than normal
  • Your headaches are accompanied by blurry vision, sudden weight gain, pain in the upper right abdomen, and swelling in the hands and face
  • Your blood pressure is high.

 

 

 

 

Posted in Pregnancy