Headaches During Pregnancy: What Mothers-To-Be Need to Know
During pregnancy, women may experience a wide range of symptoms that they never faced before, including headaches. Headaches are very common for pregnant women for a number of reasons, including fluctuating hormones, emotional stress, and physical changes. While some mothers may overlook their headaches, it’s essential to distinguish between normal and concerning symptoms.
At Cheyenne OBGYN, we want mothers to feel empowered to understand their bodies and take action when something doesn’t feel right during pregnancy. Here are some tips and important information for mothers-to-be when it comes to headaches and their pregnancy journey.
Commons Causes of Headaches During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the body undergoes major changes and hormonal fluctuations that can lead to an increase of headaches for women. For some women, the increased blood circulation is a contributing factor. Other common triggers include weight gain, stress levels, lack of sleep, and dehydration that can worsen headache symptoms. While occasional headaches are normal during pregnancy, certain symptoms may point to more serious conditions, including migraines and preeclampsia.
When to be Concerned During Pregnancy
Pregnant women may experience headache-related conditions, such as migraines. Migraines are a neurological disease that is characterized by painful, frequent headaches that can disrupt daily life. Some common symptoms include throbbing pain, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances (auras), and sensory sensitivities. Persistent migraines can be debilitating for anyone, making it essential to recognize these symptoms early and seek appropriate treatments.
Headaches are also related to preeclampsia, a serious medical condition that is characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage. Common symptoms of preeclampsia include headaches, high blood pressure, swelling in the feet and hands, and abdominal pain. Preeclampsia can lead to extreme medical emergencies, including seizures, strokes, organ failure, and even death. If pregnant mothers are experiencing these symptoms, it is vital to get checked out and diagnosed so proper treatment can be administered.
Safe Ways to Cure Headaches While Pregnant
There are several natural remedies and safe practices for pregnant women that can help relieve headache symptoms. For quick relief, acetaminophen is generally considered safe when used as directed. Drinking plenty of water, exercising gently, applying cold and warm compresses, and practicing light stretching can also be effective. In addition, eating the right foods and maintaining adequate sleep is crucial to supporting a healthy pregnancy overall.
Next Steps to Preventing Headaches
At Cheyenne OBGYN, we want every mother to feel supported and healthy during their pregnancy journey. If you’re experiencing headaches or have concerns about any symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor. Regular check ups and prenatal appointments play a vital role in protecting you and your baby. Alongside medical care, following the tips above and listening to your body can help make sure your pregnancy is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.