Reducing Reading Induced Headaches

Even though people do not read quite as much as they used to, a number of people continue to read on a regular basis. Many have even switched over to Kindles and Nooks, reading their books through e-readers rather than in physical copies. According to Web MD, this has led to an increased rate of reading induced migraines and headaches.
If you're one of those readers who finds yourself in pain after reading for a few hours, don't despair. You don't have to give up reading online. You just have to be prepared to take certain steps to avoid the headaches and reduce their effective.


Avoid Monosodium Glutamate
One of the more surprising accelerators linked to reading induced headaches is good old MSG. According to Web MD, MSG, a common additive in most packaged foods from the coffee shops, increases the effects of a reading induced headache. It causes constriction of the blood vessels and dilation alternatively, increasing the throbbing rate in many individuals.
If you're planning on spending an evening reading, you'll want to pass on anything with MSG and just enjoy something a little healthier. If you're snacking on something, make sure that you purchase something from them that is either a whole food or that is certified as MSG free.

Decrease the Contrast
Another reason for the increase in headaches comes from the screens of the e-readers themselves. While the screens are adjustable, many people just read their books in the same setting. Take the time to adjust it. You will want the screen to be as dim as possible so that you don't have the eye strain that comes from staring at it. Don't make it so dim though that you can't see. That will cause another kind of headache. It should be comfortable enough for you to look at and then look away without your eyes hurting.

Take Regular Breaks
One of the primary reasons that eye damage occurs among individuals using e-readers and computers comes from the fact that they do not take breaks. The Natural Health Society warns that long and unbroken periods of online reading can result in permanent eye damage. Headaches are just one of the first symptoms. To avoid the pain that comes with them, you should take a break every 15 - 30 minutes to look at something else entirely. Focus on something across the room for a full minute. Then close your eyes and let them rest. You can start reading again afterward. This helps to prevent eye strain and eye damage.


Keep Your Posture in Alignment
Not all headaches come from staring a screen. Sometimes they come from the way that you sit in front of the screen. According to Prevention, people who read online tend to slump while they are reading. It's generally because the screen is lower than their range of vision, meaning that they have to lower their heads to be able to read comfortable. This causes strain on the spine and can result in compression. For many people, this equals nasty headaches. To avoid this, you will need to make an effort to use proper posture when sitting and reading. If you are already having problems with severe migraines related to reading online, you may need to visit a chiropractor to get your back into alignment once more. Remember that your spine should be straight, not slouched. Even your shoulders need to be in alignment to remove the tension and help keep those reading induced headaches from striking.