Have you ever been jolted awake by a headache in the middle of the night? If so, you're not alone. A lot of people seeking NUCCA Chiropractic in Vancouver experience nighttime headaches. And, like you, they’re not sure why they experience such a symptom. Let’s help you get to the bottom of nighttime headaches by looking into some common culprits behind these nocturnal nuisances and discussing how to find relief.
Ever heard of the "alarm clock headache"? It's a rare kind, known as hypnic headache, often waking folks up between 1 and 3 a.m. Though more common in people over 50, it doesn't discriminate against age and tends to affect women more. Imagine a throbbing pain, sensitivity to light and sound, perhaps watery eyes or a blocked nose, and even nausea. And you might experience this more than once a night! Don't worry; there are treatments like bedtime caffeine or specific meds, but always check with your doctor first.
Cluster headaches are like uninvited guests that show up with intense, stabbing pain, usually targeting one side of your head, often around the eye or temple. They come in groups (hence the name), and you might get them several times a day, each lasting a few hours. They often kick in after you've dozed off. Triggers can be anything from alcohol to strong smells. While there's no cure, remedies like oxygen therapy and certain nasal sprays or preventive meds can help.
Stress, muscle tightness, or just plain fatigue can bring on tension headaches. Picture a dull ache or a sensation like a tight band around your head. They can last a couple of hours, and you might feel muscle aches in your neck, shoulders, or back. Before hitting the hay, try some over-the-counter pain relief, a warm compress, or a relaxing bath.
Migraines can rudely wake you up and hang around painfully long. These headaches come with severe pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes even visual disturbances. Managing stress and maintaining a regular exercise regime, along with medication, can help keep migraines at bay.
Diagnosing the exact type of headache you're dealing with is key. Your doctor might suggest some tests like blood work or scans, especially if they suspect an underlying issue.
Frequent or severe nighttime headaches warrant a visit to the doctor. And if you're experiencing new headaches after 50 or have headaches accompanied by changes in personality or following an injury, don't hesitate to seek professional advice.
If nighttime headaches are keeping you up, it's time to take control. Consider booking an appointment with a doctor of NUCCA Chiropractic in Vancouver, Dr. Joseph Perin, who can help you understand and manage your headaches more effectively - especially if it’s connected to atlas subluxation. Dr. Perin's expertise in this area is unparalleled, and he's committed to helping you find the relief you deserve.
Don't let another sleepless night pass by. Visit our website to book your appointment with Dr. Perin today so you can have your atlas and axis bones evaluated and realigned. Let's work together towards restful nights and headache-free days!
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Joe Perin, call our Vancouver office at 360-569-1740. You can also click the button below.
If you are outside of the local area, you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.
