26/06/26 It’s All In Your Head

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Headaches are common.
Severe, chronic headaches? That's a completely different beast.
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the possible causes and triggers behind migraines, cluster headaches, trigeminal neuralgia, chronic headaches and other forms of severe head pain.
And here's the interesting bit: the brain itself can't actually feel pain.
So where is that pain coming from?

We work our way around the head and neck, looking at the dura mater, periosteum, cranial nerves, scalp, sinuses and blood vessels, before moving into the bigger picture of what may be contributing to recurring headaches.

We also look at the things that can make matters worse, including:
* Hormonal changes
* Stress
* Poor sleep
* Environmental factors
* Dietary triggers
* Muscle tension and posture
* Neck trauma
* Medication
* Possible environmental exposures
* Hydration and circulation
* Nutritional deficiencies

Then we get practical.

The episode explores a holistic approach to headache management, including diet, movement, sleep, breathing, posture, stress management, environmental changes and nutritional support.
We'll also discuss magnesium, B vitamins, vitamin D, melatonin, CoQ10, omega-3 fatty acids and several plant-based options that have been studied in relation to headaches and migraines.

And yes, we have a few things to say about codeine.

Because sometimes the thing you reach for to make the headache disappear today may be part of the reason you're still dealing with headaches tomorrow.

In this episode, you'll discover:
* Where headache pain actually comes from
* Why different types of headaches can share common pain pathways
* How food and lifestyle may contribute to headache triggers
* Why sleep, stress and recovery matter
* How posture and modern screen habits may affect the head and neck
* Why hydration and circulation deserve attention
* Simple lifestyle strategies you can try
* The role of nutritional supplements in headache prevention
* Some natural approaches that have been studied for headache and migraine

A quick note from the Integrow team
This episode is for educational purposes and is not intended to replace individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you experience severe, sudden, unusual or persistent headaches, or any concerning accompanying symptoms, seek appropriate medical attention.
And if you're taking prescription medication, don't stop or change it without discussing it with your healthcare professional.
Because your head may be complicated.
Your healthcare doesn't have to be.
Chapters
26 Jun English South Africa Health & Fitness · Alternative Health

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