Triggers differ between men and women - headache research - Brief Article - Statistical Data Included

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Oct, 2002

Although more women suffer from headaches than men, neither group can escape what can be life-altering discomfort. In a research survey conducted by Bruskin Research for Percogesic Aspirin-Free Pain Relievers, 50% of women and 31% of men reported experiencing headaches that require treatment. Almost 40% of sufferers turn to an over-the-counter (OTC) medication for relief. The reasons people get headaches--"triggers," as they are called--vary between the sexes.

The survey found that females who rely upon OTC medications for headaches are significantly more likely than males to indicate they experience headaches as a result of stress (42% of females vs. 33% of males); sinus allergy problems (40% vs. 23%); strong smells or odors (24% vs. 14%); spouse or children (18% vs. 11%); and certain foods/medications (10% vs. six percent). The sole trigger that men report more frequently than women results from ice cream or cold beverages--"brain freeze" (12% men vs. eight percent women). Meanwhile, six percent of men report that hormone changes or the monthly menstrual cycle experienced by their significant other causes the women very frequent headaches.

The American Headache Society reports that headaches are among the most common pain complaints seen by primary care physicians, with as many as 45,000,000 Americans experiencing them. Primary headaches, which are an actual clinical condition and not a symptom of or caused by another disorder, include migraines and tension and cluster headaches. Secondary headaches stem from other medical conditions, including sinus or dental ailments, allergies, head injuries, or brain tumors.

Over 40% of the survey respondents report regularly suffering from general headaches, chronic headaches, or migraines. While stress, allergy/sinus problems, and strong odors are significant triggers, other causes include sunlight or bright light, hormonal changes or monthly menstrual cycles, computer eye strain, work-related issues, cigarette smoke, pollution, noise, altitude, and weather conditions. Dietary triggers--such as alcohol (specifically red wine and champagne), aspartame, nitrates and MSG, caffeine, chocolate, hard cheese, nuts, and even some medications--were also responsible, particularly in the case of women.

Eighty percent of those surveyed who take OTC headache medications report at least one headache in a typical week; 16% get two; and another 16% experience three to four per week. Those between the ages of 35 and 49 are significantly more likely than the overall sample to indicate they get headaches (49% vs. 41%). Respondents in this age group make up 35% of all headache sufferers.

The important aspect of headache prevention is to recognize your particular triggers so they can be avoided. Headache sufferers may find patterns if they track their headaches each day and try to relate them to certain situations, foods, or activities. Individuals who suffer from frequent headaches should maintain a diary to help do so and thus eliminate the triggers.