We’ve all experienced headaches.
The dull aching pain can make it difficult to get anything done.
But what’s a headache and what can cause it?
Illustration by Jake Shi for Verywell Health
A headache is a pain or discomfort in any region of your head.
Headaches can occur on one or both sides of your head or be isolated to a specific spot.
There are two types of headaches: primary and secondary headaches.
Primary headaches are ones where the headache is the disease itself and is not a symptom of another condition.
These includecluster headaches, migraines, and tension headaches.
An afternoon headache could be a primary or secondary headache.
The following are potentialcausesof an afternoon headache.
Dehydration
Many people can get a headache in the afternoon due to dehydration.
We’re so busy working during the day and it’s understandable to overlook hydration.
This causes pain which then radiates to the head.
Tension headaches can begin slowly and progress through the day and become worse.
The muscles in your neck or shoulders might feel tight and tense.
Changes in nerve pathways, neurotransmitters, and other brain chemicals can trigger a migraine.
You might also experience nausea andvomiting.
Stress, and certain smells, sights, sounds, or foods can trigger amigraine.
It’s wise to watch your caffeine intake.
The principal substances of certain alcoholic drinks can provoke a headache.
While one-third of the population experiences headaches, women have more than men.
Differences in hormones could be among the reasons women have more headaches than men do.
For example:
You should also avoid certain headache triggers such asalcoholandcaffeine.
Other treatments for afternoon headaches include over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
A Word From Verywell
Experiencing a chronic headache in the afternoon can be challenging and disrupting.
Remember that you could take steps to avoid your triggers and keep symptoms at bay.
You don’t have to live with constant discomfort or pain.
Know your limits and begin to recognize your triggers.
Consider starting a symptom journal to keep track of when you experience pain and what might be causing it.
Being aware of what’s causing your headaches can be the first step to getting them under control.
Primary headaches are headaches that aren’t due to a medical condition.
These include cluster headaches, migraines, and tension headaches.
If you’re pregnant and experiencing headaches, it’s first recommended to call your healthcare provider.
They will advise you as to what is considered a safe pain medication while pregnant.
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