What Causes Postpartum Headaches? The type and remedy

After childbirth, mom's body is more tired than expected and is prone to problems in various places. There are various problems after childbirth such as back pain and constipation, but the one that afflicts moms is the headache after childbirth. Postpartum headaches can be nauseous for some people, and even slight headaches can be tiring for long periods of time. This time, we will introduce the causes and remedies for postpartum headaches.

Types of postpartum headaches

There are two main types of headaches that plague moms after childbirth. There are "migraine" caused by the contraction of blood vessels in the brain and "tension headache" caused by distortion of the pelvis. Each has different symptoms and cures, so check which one applies to your headache.

Migraine

Migraine is a headache caused by the dilation of blood vessels in the brain. A few times a month, your temples and the area around your eyes may become dull and painful, with nausea and chills. It can be sensitive to light and sound, and even light exercise such as walking can make it worse. Migraine headaches are caused by stress, lack of sleep due to baby crying at night, and changes in air pressure. Migraine headaches tend to be protracted once they occur and may last all day or for more than 3 days.

Tension-type headache

Another headache that occurs after childbirth is tension-type headache. The feature is that it hurts so that the entire head, such as the back of the head and around the nape of the neck, is tightened. Tension-type headaches are rarely accompanied by nausea, even when the symptoms are severe. It also tends to subside in a relatively short period of time, sometimes in as little as an hour. However, people who are chronic may have a prolonged period of time, and for some people, tension-type headaches may be prolonged for weeks.

What to do if you have a migraine

Migraine is a type of headache caused by the dilation of blood vessels and can be relieved by restoring the dilated blood vessels.

Cool and constrict blood vessels

Cooling is an easy way to constrict dilated blood vessels. Applying ice or a chilled towel to the painful area can immediately constrict blood vessels, which may help relieve migraine headaches.

Take caffeine

If you want to easily constrict the dilated blood vessels, try drinking coffee, green tea, or black tea that contains caffeine. Caffeine has the effect of constricting blood vessels, which helps relieve postpartum migraine headaches. However, if you are breastfeeding your baby, taking too much caffeine can affect your baby's health, so keep it low when you have a migraine.

Rest and wait

If you have a migraine, turn off the lights in the room, darken it with curtains, close your eyes and stay calm. Resting in a dark room will gradually subside the dilated blood vessels.

Watch out for food

People who are prone to chronic migraine headaches should review their diet and refrain from foods that are prone to migraine headaches. Foods that tend to dilate blood vessels include cheese, wine, chocolate, processed meats (ham, sausages, salami, etc.), ready-to-eat foods, and snack foods. To reduce migraine headaches, be careful not to overeat on a regular basis.

What to do if you have a tension-type headache

Tension-type headaches are a type of headache caused by the constriction of blood vessels, which can be relieved by relieving the tension in the constricted blood vessels and improving blood flow.

Warm and relax

Warming is the best way to relieve tense blood vessels. You can relieve tension-type headaches by applying a hot towel to the painful areas such as your shoulders and head. When you have time, it's a good idea to soak in the bathtub to warm your whole body.

Massage

It is recommended to use massage oil because it soothes your fingers and allows you to massage your muscles with a light force. Apply the oil to your palms, warm it well, and then apply it to your temples. Press with your middle finger or gently massage in a circular motion.

Relieve stress

It is important to rest your body without accumulating stress. It's difficult to make time for yourself with unfamiliar childcare, but if you feel tired, be aware of taking a break. Close your eyes and lie down in a quiet place, eat your favorite sweets, listen to your favorite music, and try the method that suits you best.

Can I take a headache medicine while breastfeeding?

If possible, I don't want to rely on medicine, but if you have a painful headache while breastfeeding, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking it. Be aware that some over-the-counter medications contain ingredients that can affect your baby.How was it. Headaches while raising children are really painful, aren't they? If you have a headache, first identify the type of headache and try the remedies I've introduced today.