A strategy to avoid holiday headaches

The holiday season is full of good cheer, but it also can be a headache -- literally. Late November and December bring a crush of family gatherings, shopping, Christmas parties and other stressful events. For the 45 million Americans who experience chronic, recurring headaches, this time of year can generate a tremendous amount of tension.

To fight back, the National Headache Foundation offers these tips:

Plan in advance: Make lists of everything you need to do, buy, pack or cook. If traveling, allow extra time to navigate airports and crowded highways. If possible, don't shop during peak hours when stores are mobbed.

Don't skip meals: Empty stomachs can spur headaches. If unable to follow your normal eating schedule, pack snacks. Avoid foods such as ripe cheeses, processed meats and chocolate, which can cause headaches in susceptible people.

Avoid last-minute shopping: Winter coats, hot stores, long checkout lines and looming Christmas deadlines can give even the most ardent shopaholic a tension headache. Don't try to pack too much shopping into one day. Shop early, or consider online or catalog shopping.

Limit exposure to smoke- or perfume-filled rooms: Both can trigger headaches. Find some fresh air.

If you drink, do so in moderation: Alternate alcoholic drinks with glasses of water. Avoid red wine, which contains an amino acid known to trigger headaches. Limit your alcohol intake in the hour or two before bedtime.

Schedule personal time: Many people try to pack too much holiday socializing into too little time. Don't feel you must attend every holiday event to which you are invited. Give yourself a break and plan some down time. A few hours alone each week can reduce stress.

For more info on headaches causes and treatments, call 888-NHF-5552 or visit http://www.headaches.org.
-- Brandon Griggs