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According to the World Health Organization, about 50% of adults have experienced headaches within the past year, with 4% of the population noting recurring issues (at least 15 headache days per month).

Why do people get headaches? While the most well-known causes of headaches are stress, dehydration, and hormonal changes, there are plenty of other lesser-known sources said to be the cause of headaches. Read on as we breakdown some unexpected causes of headaches so you can prepare for or avoid triggers.

Note: Not all headaches are the same and some can often indicate serious medical issues that require immediate care. If you suffer from migraines or headaches on a frequent basis, talk to your doctor.

Get to Know the Causes of Headaches

Be Wary of the Weather

Bad weather can be the cause of headaches often, and not just because it usually leads to flight delays and other travel mishaps.

Severe changes in temperature, along with the high- or low-pressure systems that cause a storm, can increase the likelihood of headaches. Since changes in pressure affect your nasal and sinus cavities, experts hypothesize that these changes can also impact the pressure around your brain—altering the way your brain perceives pain signals.

Of course, we can’t change the weather, but for those with headaches, keeping an eye on the forecast and ensuring proper protection from the elements can help.

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Stifle Strong Scents

Even if a smell is pleasant to us, exposure to stronger scents overtime can be a cause of headaches. Often, the most common sources include perfume, smoke, candles, paint, vehicle exhaust, flowers, and even laundry detergent. Avoiding strongly-scented perfumes, colognes, or deodorants—or ensuring you get a breath of fresh air after scent exposure—can help.

Ditch Poor Posture

It’s no secret that our posture can impact wellness. In this instance, improper posture can be a regular cause of headaches. Slouching in a chair, having work tools too-high or too-low, and poor lumbar support builds pressure in your back, head, and neck muscles, causing headaches.

By improving posture, with the help of ergonomic swaps for better work and living spaces, you can help alleviate oncoming tension headaches.

Limit Intake of Cheeses and Aged Foods

The aging process can add complex flavors to many different kinds of foods or drinks, but, when things age, they also create a substance called tyramine that is known to be a cause of headaches in some.

Tyramine is commonly found in aged cheeses, processed meats, wines, and other alcoholic drinks. The blood-thinning effects of alcohol and added nitrates from cured, processed meats can further intensify headache symptoms. Consider these foods and drinks in moderation or cut them out altogether.

Fight Poor Air Quality

The quality of the air we breathe has a direct impact on our overall health and well-being, including our chances of developing headaches. But one relationship to look out for is migraines and humidity levels.

When your indoor environment is extremely dry, moisture is removed. Not only does moisture help keep your sinuses and nasal passages healthy, it can also reduce your risk of illness and/or headaches. It’s no wonder migraines and humidity control go hand-in-hand.

By maintaining optimal humidity levels in your home (between 40–60%*), you can create a more comfortable home environment. Worry not about the relationship between migraines and humidity! Opt for an AprilAire Whole-House Humidifier when lacking moisture or an AprilAire Whole-House Dehumidifier when moisture is in excess.

Additionally, common allergies are often the cause of headaches, especially during the height of allergy season. While you can’t control triggers outside, you can protect yourself inside by eliminating allergy and asthma triggers in your air. An AprilAire Whole-House Fresh Air Ventilation System, Air Purifier, and Air Filter help create a safe haven from unwanted allergens.

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*While balanced humidity exists between 40 and 60%, it’s important to remember that outdoor temperature and other home factors will impact what relative humidity level is attainable and recommended for your house. Talk with your AprilAire Healthy Air Professional to learn more.