Menopause Matters Forum

Menopause Discussion => Postmenopause => Topic started by: Gillydlf on August 22, 2024, 08:02:53 PM

Title: Tension headaches
Post by: Gillydlf on August 22, 2024, 08:02:53 PM
Does anyone constantly suffer with daily headaches?
I’ve been to the GP a few times since March this year but all I’ve been told is it sounds like my headaches are just tension.
I’m trying acupuncture & also trying to stop taking paracetamol on a daily basis as the GP did say overuse of tablets can cause rebound pain.
 I do have tension in my shoulders & have massages to try & ease them so headaches could be coming from there.
I feel so fed up & the headaches are getting me down, I don’t feel like doing anything anymore.
If anyone has the same problem & has anything I could try I would be grateful.
I am 62 & 8 years post menopausal
Thanks
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: CLKD on August 22, 2024, 08:40:06 PM
..... and breath.   Too many head ache pills can cause rebound headaches.  As can dehydration, if the body is dry it may result in headaches.

Do check your foot wear because if the body is tilted, the cervical spine can become stiff = headaches.  The body will compensate from top to bottom = pain and stiffness. 

Have U had an eye test in recent years? 

How R your pillows, sitting position at the computer etc.? 

Yoga.  Relaxation therapy.  Dancing.  Swimming.  Walking - can all help relax the body. 

Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: Gillydlf on August 22, 2024, 09:01:18 PM
Thanks CLKD you always reply  & it really do help🙏

I mostly wear sketcher trainers which I feel support my feet &
I had my eyes tested in January this year.
I have a pillow designed to help my neck which does help me sleep ok most nights.
Yoga could be something I could try thanks. I walk a lot with my dog but
I think I do need to relax & stop overthinking which I know  it’s easier said than done.
Thanks again
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: VioletAquarius on August 22, 2024, 10:33:45 PM
Good suggestions there by clkd.

There's something called kore therapy that you could look into.
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: Hippolyta on August 23, 2024, 08:52:10 AM
Could your headaches be migraines? Whereabouts do you feel the pain and what does it feel like?
I ask because migraines can involve shoulder/neck pain and often don't respond to OTC painkillers.
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: Gillydlf on August 23, 2024, 02:53:14 PM
Hi Flowerpot
The pain is in my forehead that’s why the dr thinks it’s a tension headache.
I am using a 4head stick which seems to be helping & cutting down to just 1 soluble paracetamol a day just to help with the neck pain. Thanks for your reply
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: CLKD on August 23, 2024, 03:17:26 PM
The heat affects my forehead.  So I try to up my fluid intake.
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: shrosphirelass on August 23, 2024, 07:44:39 PM
Do you get hay fever? I get headaches when the pollen level is high. I do take preventative measures that do help.

Posture can also be a contributor or cause. It helped me to have a one off physio appt and get advice. She said my posture was awful and doing the simple things she suggested did help me. (Lifting the computer monitor to eye line and putting a cushion behind my back on the desk chair) I also did neck exercises as advised.

Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: Gillydlf on August 23, 2024, 09:32:14 PM
No I don’t have hay fever but my posture isn’t brilliant. I am doing exercises for my neck & shoulders so hopefully they will help,
I’ve had a painkiller free day today so maybe not taking any will be beneficial.
Thanks
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: Sunriser on August 24, 2024, 09:30:51 AM
as a migraine sufferer I can identify! The only thing that has helped me was elimination diets, have a look at keto for migraine and also the Heal Your Headache 123 diet, you don't need to buy the book. Also what are your stress levels like and are you getting enough rest and relaxation? Hope you feel better soon
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: CLKD on August 24, 2024, 12:12:48 PM
Posture is certainly something that I need to look at, I am beginning to lean forwards when walking  :-\ [who is that old woman staring back from the shop window  :o].

Putting bum against the back of a hard chair can remind us where the contact point should be.  Also making sure that the bed is comfy, pillows etc..  Did I mention foot wear  ;D
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: Gillydlf on August 24, 2024, 01:37:08 PM
Hi Sunriser
My stress levels are quite high atm so probably not helping my headaches. Also tinnitus is a bit loud right now which maybe is also a stress thing.
I will check the Heal your headache thanks x
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: Lin on August 24, 2024, 11:30:59 PM
Yes tension headaches are horrible.  Try to get out in the fresh air and walk. Also look at your diet. Try to relax more, meditation, breathing work, learning to live in the present really helps too. Remember to drink plenty of fresh water. Make sure you get enough sleep, try a sleep app to check. This will pass.
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: Gillydlf on August 25, 2024, 08:03:53 AM
Thanks to all who replied it really  does help🙏
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: CLKD on August 25, 2024, 03:23:53 PM
There is a thread about tinnitus  ::)
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: VioletAquarius on August 25, 2024, 06:43:27 PM
Out shopping yesterday looking for congestion tablets and next to it was a tiny tub called "Tiger", which was for tension headaches.
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: CLKD on August 25, 2024, 06:45:08 PM
What's a tiger got in its tank ;-) ..........  :whist:   

Is it a preparation to rub in to the neck muscles for example?  Tension can come from all around the neck and shoulders, when tired or anxious my shoulders are up round my ears  :o  :-\
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: Gillydlf on August 26, 2024, 10:32:25 AM
Is it Tiger balm? I did check  ingredients🥴no real tiger bits in it thank goodness😳I use it on my neck & shoulders it’s so warming so I’ll rub a bit on my forehead & see if it helps😀
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: VioletAquarius on August 26, 2024, 05:26:45 PM
Yes it was Tiger Balm.

There were 2 different ones - white for tension headaches and red for muscle aches & pains.
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: CLKD on August 26, 2024, 07:26:47 PM
What might B the difference  :-\ and how often do they require application?
Title: Re: Tension headaches
Post by: Gillydlf on August 27, 2024, 11:03:57 AM
I’m going to try the white one as I only have the red one. I’ll check the ingredients to see what the difference  is🤔