Keep holidays healthy and headache free

As the holidays approach, people across the nation are looking forward to twinkling lights, festive music, sweet treats and an extra dose of family visits.

But for many, these favorite holiday traditions can also bring on an unwelcome threat of headaches and for some, even a debilitating migraine headache.

Most people suffer from the occasional headache and an estimated 25 million Americans––75 percent of whom are women––experience much more severe migraine headaches. No matter what the type, however, experts now know that headaches can be triggered by foods, beverages or other lifestyle factors.

According to Donnica Moore, M.D., each headache sufferer has his or her own combination of personal headache triggers, which can be increasingly difficult to avoid during the holiday season.

To avoid turning into a grinch this holiday season, Moore suggests the following solutions to prevent some of the most common holiday headaches:

The "Last Minute Shopping" Headache (stress)

Solution: Reduce stress by planning ahead as much as possible by making lists and shopping early before the stores are crowded.

The "Are We There Yet?" Headache (travel)

Solution: Consider the easiest routes to travel to friends or relatives. Avoid noisy and crowded forms of transportation.

The "Decoration Overload" Migraine (twinkling lights)

Solution: Avoid bright or flashing lights from holiday decorations. Instead hand mistletoe or create beautiful centerpieces for your home with winter fruits and festive foliage.

The "Be Everywhere" Headache (lack of sleep)

Solution: Prioritize during this busy holiday season. Pick and choose a few fun activities and get plenty of rest.

The "Overactive Perfume Counter Spritzer" Headache (smell)

Solution: Rather than using colognes or perfumes, fill your home with lightly scented candles for a fragrant and festive aura.

The "Eggroll Hors d’Oeuvres" Migraine (M.S.G.)

Solution: Instead of snaking on M.S.G.-laden appetizers, fill your plate with alternative goodies.

Besides avoiding personal triggers, there is more good news for headache sufferers, especially for those who suffer from migraines. "New research shows that many people can help stave off migraines by taking something for their pain as soon as they feel one coming on," said Moore.

"I advise my patients to carry medication with them and keep it in their car or office. For people who require prescription medications, there are several new ones they can learn about from their doctors.’’