Headache-Proof Your Home by Andrea Bartz in the March 2012 issue of Health was really insightful. The article brought up simple fixes to surprising headache triggers in your home. Here's the gist:
1. Bright, glaring lights can be a huge migraine trigger. The article suggests purchasing dimmers or lower wattage bulbs. Dim incandescents are preferable to halogens and fluorescents because of their more muted light. Install blinds and shades to help regulate sunlight.
2. Hidden allergies like dust mites, dander, and mold can be found in even the cleanest homes. The article suggests investing in air purifiers, a humidifier, microfiber allergen blocking encasements for your pillows, mattress and box spring, and a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Vacuuming upholstered furniture twice a week and changing bedding weekly will significantly lower allergens.
3. Intense aromas of any kind can cause headaches and most homes and apartments have inadequate ventilation. Use unscented candles, nontoxic cleaners, and crack windows. Air purifiers that have carbon filters are also good investments for cleaner air.
4. Similar to lighting, super bright screens on laptops and tablets can cause discomfort. Lower the brightness setting on your gadgets and get a glare reducing filter for your monitor.
Other hidden diet triggers to avoid are aged food and drinks (cheeses, cured meats and dried fruit), aspartame - as if we needed more reasons not to ingest chemicals, food additives such as MSG, and alcohol - duh.
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