Cold Headache Freezing can promote tension headaches

"Freezing can cause tension headaches," reports the professional association of German Nervous Physicians (BVDN) in Krefeld. Some people would increasingly suffer from headaches in autumn and winter. One possible cause of the discomfort is tension headaches, which are caused by muscle tension in the neck and head area.
Some people suffer from headaches in autumn and winter. One possible cause of the discomfort is tension headaches, which are caused by muscle tension in the neck and head area. "Especially in the transitional season, people do not always manage to adapt to the current outside temperatures with clothes. Already short-term cold feeling and freezing can then lead to affected persons pulling up their shoulders and tensing their muscles in this area. Over time, the tension then expands over the neck and head and can cause headaches, "Dr. Frank Bergmann from the Professional Association of German Nervous Physicians (BVDN) in Krefeld. "Even cold wind on the head can cause tension headaches, because the thin muscles under the scalp contract convulsively." Tension headache is characterized by a dull, squeezing or pulling pain in the whole head or a pain that runs from the neck to the forehead. The head seems to be heavy and the eyes can get tired.

Tension headache by freezing. Image: Doris Heinrichs - fotolia

Self-treatment only for occasional complaints
If there are occasional tension-type headaches, controlled self-treatment with over-the-counter analgesics is fine. "In acute conditions, medications such as acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen or paracetamol help. However, medicines should be taken less than 10 times a month. Because painkillers are taken over a longer period of time, the headache can worsen or become chronic and it can cause a number of unwanted side effects, "warns the neurologist. Peppermint oil or tiger balm, which are painted on the temples, can also relieve acute tension-type headaches, as does the use of relaxation techniques. If it often comes to a monthly headache over a longer period of time, the complaints should be clarified professionally and there should be a medically accompanied therapy.

Avoid headaches by keeping warm, relaxing and exercising
In order to prevent tension headaches, it is important that sensitive persons do not approach the cold as unprotected as possible. "Pain enhancers also include working in poorly ventilated rooms, permanent body malposition or stress and psychosocial stress," adds Dr. med. Bergmann. "Regular physical exercise can help relieve inner states of tension while allowing the muscles to breathe, to strengthen and relax." Tension headaches are common; around 30 million Germans suffer at least in phases in their lives. About 2% of the population is affected by the chronic form. (Pm)