What Triggers Headaches at Work?

Headaches are one of the most common problems. Probably even before toothache which seemed to top the pain chart! Headaches can start anywhere and anytime. And it’s hardly surprising that they quite often occur while people are at work. But it’s worth going a little deeper and learning more about headaches at work and some specific environmental reasons, which may be the reason why some people suffer on the job.

According to a research more than 16 million working days are lost each year because of migraines. Some types of headaches can cause very painful symptoms, which may last up to around 72 hours. These headaches at work sometimes are so severe that concentrating on the day’s work becomes tough. So much so that sometimes headaches make you temporarily bed ridden. Even movements get restricted.

Coming to the core issue; what triggers headaches at work place. Well there may be many factors that can trigger headaches. Most of work related headaches are related to stress due to work or not getting along with people.

Headaches at work may be a result of stress, worry, tension, anxiety etc about workload, deadlines, demands of job (or worrying about problems at home in the work place). A dispute or argument with a fellow worker – senior or junior can also result in headache. Improper working conditions like – stuffy, noisy, dry, dusty or smoky atmosphere. Headache could also be a result of poor lighting or uncomfortable chairs that can give tension on spine and neck. Excessive use of computer is also an important factor that we cannot afford to ignore. Such headaches are called computer vision syndrome.

Being on one job for hours without taking breaks in between. Constantly sitting in one position for hours and staring at the computer without giving your eyes a break can also give headache. Missing or skipping meals is also why some people get headache in the office. Such people are invariably in a hurry to rush to office on time and to meet the deadline they conveniently miss lunch or breakfast. Working late in the office. Till wee hours of the next day and again reaching office on time the next day can also give headache. This is due to loss of sleep. In long run they can result in black outs. These should be avoided at all costs. Partying and drinking through the night and making it to office on time the next day gives a headache too.

One must keep these reasons in mind and realize that they are all within control. It is within our circle of influence to avoid them. Headaches at work may also have an adverse affect on our growth and can affect our career adversely.