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Wake up each morning with a headache? If so, you're not alone. A recent study has shown that one in thirteen people will wake up with a headache. The study also showed that approximately 8% of those people have had that headache pattern for four years or more. The most likely sufferers - women between the ages of 45 and 64.

There are many reasons for this headache pattern with some of the most common described here:

Sleep Apnea

This is a very common problem which often goes unnoticed by those that are affected. Many people believe they are sleeping through the night, and can't understand why they still tired during the day. Sleep apnea may be the culprit. While a common disorder, sleep apnea can in fact be quite serious. With this problem, your breathing will pause or become very shallow 20-30 times per hour for periods of 10-20 seconds or more.

One of the most common symptoms of sleep apnea is waking up in the morning with a headache. In addition to the headache, you may wake with a dry throat and have the feeling that you have not slept at all. This problem prevents a deep, restful sleep.

If you believe sleep apnea may be your problem, be sure to inform your doctor. The doctor can order a sleep study to help determine the severity of your sleep apnea.

Grinding Your Teeth

Teeth grinding is another common problem that can lead to a morning headache. Should the teeth grinding be excessive, the additional discomfort of pain and tightness in the muscles of the jaw, neck and head may also be present. Fortunately, this problem can usually be corrected through the use of a "nightguard" that will be fitted for you by your dentist. The nightguard is made of soft plastic that rests in your mouth during sleep to prevent the grinding.

Bedtime Restlessness

Frequent tossing and turning at night while trying to sleep can often lead to a headache in the morning. This is a problem that is usually caused by something psychological rather than physical, and should be discussed with both your doctor, and a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist.

Restless leg syndrome can also be a cause. The undeniable sensation to move your legs that some describe as feeling like insects are crawling inside their legs. This may suggest a deficiency in iron or magnesium that will require supplementation. A prescription of Ropinirole may also be prescribed by your doctor.

Snoring

It is possible that the origin of your headache problem may be lying right next to you. Studies have shown that someone whose partner snores may lose as much as 50-60 minutes of sleep per night. This sleep loss will add up over time and bring on the morning headache. Snoring is usually caused by upper airway resistance, chronic allergies, obesity, a stuffy nose, or a side effect of medication.

Another trip to the dentist may offer a chance at relief. Your dentist will be able to fit you with a special snoring prevention gum shield.

These are just a few of the most common causes of waking up every morning with a headache. Whether you recognize any of these symptoms or not, the problem of a daily morning headache should be discussed with your doctor and not ignored.

Copyright ©2007 Carl DiNello

Carl DiNello is an Article Author, and Website Owner whose articles are featured on websites covering the Internet's most popular topics.

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