Link Between Headaches & Insomnia

Do you take a nap to relieve tension headaches?

If so, do you also experience insomnia when trying to fall asleep at night?

Researchers at Rush University Medical Center recently completed a study about the behavioral link between insomnia and tension-type headaches. It was published in the February 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.

The study, which included 65 women, concluded that napping to cope with tension-type headaches could lead to chronic insomnia.

According to principal investigator and lead study author, Jason C. Ong, PhD,

“Insomnia is a common complaint among headache sufferers. While napping may relieve pain, it may also decrease the brain’s need for sleep at night, leading to reduced ability to initiate and maintain sleep at night.”

So, if you answered “yes” to the first two questions in this post, it’s time to look into other ways to relieve tension headache pain.

Lavendar-scented eye pillows are soothing while also blocking out the light.

If you’re looking for a different aromatherapy solution, Aura Cacia offers aromatherapy sticks in lavendar and peppermint (with jojoba oil). You can apply to the temples. I picked up a couple at Whole Foods and they’ve helped me tame some headaches.

How do you cope with tension headaches?

(Girl image via stock.xchng. Lavendar stick image Aura Cacia.)