Headaches after eating?

[mauco]

Hi, I was wondering, does anyone else or everyone else get a headache after eating? I have been getting severe headaches after eating for about 5 months now, that are accompanied by visual changes. I start having trouble seeing a bit, and then after about 3 hours, the headache becomes manageable. Any thoughts? Any help would be welcome, since I haven't been able to figure this out. Thanks! :)

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
If they get worse after eating bread or glucose-rich food, one differential may be intolerance to glucose which may be seen in diabetics, renal or liver problems.  Headaches are often associated with lack of food intake. But in your case, it is the intake of food that triggers it. It would help if you have this evaluated further or have additional laboratory tests done such as glucose tolerance test.  You may also want to consider complementary and alternative medicine such as biofeedback therapy or other relaxation techniques as well. Take care and best regards.

[mauco]

Hi! Thanks for looking at my post.
    I get these headaches every day, and I have been getting them for about the last 5-6 months now. It's after every meal, and they are worse when I eat bread, foods containing sugar and the like.  I don't think that they are migraines, because I don't get the nausea or vomiting, but I do get visual disturbances. I have tried everything, including ice packs, tylenol, excedrin, everything I could think of! I just want them to go away, and I want to get on with my life. Thanks so much for your help! :)

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? Can you elaborate on the headache?  Does your headache occur regularly, regardless of the food? Some food types are often triggers of headaches such as chocolate, nuts, tea, or coffee. Migraine headaches with aura are also associated with nausea, vomiting or visual disturbances and even numbness. Ice packs, identification of the triggers and pain medications may help provide relief. If it persists, you may need to have this checked by your doctor for proper evaluation. Your complete medical history and  direct clinical examination are important. Take care and regards.