Question: I wake up almost every morning with a headache. It goes away quickly without medication, but it worries me. No, I am not a drinker. Could this be something serious?


Dr. Hibberd’s answer:
Usually, individuals with chronic tension-type headache are most likely to be awakened in the early morning hours. Depression is most often associated with chronic tension-type headaches. Sometimes snoring and sleep apnea syndrome (one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while you sleep) can also cause morning headaches. Additionally, withdrawal effects from pain medications, ergots and caffeine often produce this pattern. Stress reduction measures, like yoga and meditation, can help. Some persons with chronic sinusitis may also experience an early morning headache pattern. Check your blood pressure also, and visit a doctor if this pattern persists.