🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 94 (from laksa121)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa094.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/reasons-waking-up-with-headache/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/reasons-waking-up-with-headache/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/reasons-waking-up-with-headache\/","crawl_time":1775689358,"first_indexed_time":1567728908,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,thehealthy!www,\/headaches\/reasons-waking-up-with-headache\/ s443","src_root_hash":"3769767774695690894","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Reasons You're Waking up with a Headache | The Healthy","meta_descriptions":["We've asked health experts on what causes these early-morning headaches and what you can do to wake up with a ache-free head."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Twinsterphoto\/Shutterstock\nTwinsterphoto\/Shutterstock\nWhen you wake up with a headache, your morning won't be pleasant. We've asked health experts on what causes these early-morning headaches and what you can do to wake up with a clear head.\nDehydration from alcohol\nDrinking too much at night can certainly wreck your morning. Alcohol can irritate blood vessels, leading to a\nhangover headache\n, according to the National Headache Foundation. Stick to\nmoderate drinking\n, defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. Here are more\ntips for an easier and natural wake up\n.\nEugenio Marongiu\/Shutterstock\nPoor sleep patterns\nPrioritizing good sleep matters. Both sleep deprivation and getting too much sleep can\ntrigger migraines\n, according to the American Migraine Foundation. Catch is, people who have migraines are up to 8 times more likely to suffer from sleep disorders, making it even tougher to address the root of the problem. Keep bed and wake times consistent.  These are the\n8 types of headaches you can\nget (and how to get rid of them).\nIgor Dutina\/Shutterstock\nAwkward sleep position\nSleeping in an unusual position can result in muscle strain in the head and neck area, leading to morning headaches, says\nNada Milosavljevic\n, MD, a physician and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School in Boston. Proper support could help ease the likelihood that you’ll wake up in pain. Finding a pillow that feels soft yet supportive for the position that you sleep in.\nVoyagerix\/Shutterstock\nMind-racing anxiety\nCalm your thoughts, ease the ache.\nAnna Morrison\n, a family nurse practitioner in Boca Raton, Florida, says anxiety is a leading cause of pain and ailment in the body. “From tense jaws to even tenser headaches, anxiety, though psychological, can have real, physical effects. If you’re waking up in the morning with headaches, I recommend deep breathing exercises or meditation before bed, as well as a quick ten-minute meditation in the morning. This will help reset your thoughts and keep any daily stresses at bay,” she says. Here’s\nwhy morning anxiety is a thing\n.\nImage Point Fr\/Shutterstock\nConsider your blood pressure\nNot all\nhigh blood pressure causes headaches\n, and most people never know they have high blood pressure or hypertension until they are seen for other symptoms unrelated to their blood pressure, explains\nMelva E. Pinn-Bingham\n, MD, a radiation oncologist at Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC. “However, a very high or elevated blood pressure known as ‘malignant high blood pressure’ or ‘hypertensive crisis\/emergency’ has been linked to causing severe headaches and even vision problems such as blurry or double vision. It is important to seek immediate medical attention for this condition,” she says. Here’s how to tell\nwhen high blood pressure is an emergency\n.\nsmolaw\/Shutterstock\nCoping with untreated depression\nDepression can affect you even while you sleep. “One of the more common reasons for such headaches is depression,” says Dr. Pinn-Bingham. “To reduce the likelihood of getting these early morning headaches, it is important to get a good night sleep, follow your physician’s recommendations for treatment and support of depression. I always counsel on the importance of quitting smoking, reducing overall stress in your life and limiting alcohol intake,” she adds. Check out these other ways to\nstop a headache before it starts\n.\nAndrey Popov\/Shutterstock\nGrinding your teeth\nClenching, grinding, and gnashing your teeth at night can trigger head pain, says\nRonald Rosenthal\n, DDS, a now-retired dentist in Norfolk, VA. “This causes tremendous stress to the chewing muscles. And, when muscles are over-stressed, they can go into a painful spasm,” he explains. Consider a mouth-guard. Your dentist may recommend a custom-fit mouth guard, or you may be able to use an inexpensive over-the-counter device. Bet you didn’t know that there are 13 more surprising\nthings that could trigger headaches\n.\nbaranq\/Shutterstock\nIt may be sleep apnea\nExperts believe some morning headaches are related to specific activities of sleep. “Sleep apnea—unhealthy breaks in breathing during the night—can cause morning headaches related to high carbon dioxide levels,” explains\nJonathan Cabin\n, MD, director of The Migraine Institute in Beverly Hills, CA. Once a sleep apnea diagnosis is made, he says, medical interventions can help, as can lifestyle changes like weight loss.\nnovak elcic\/Shutterstock\nCaffeine withdrawal\nSurprisingly, caffeine withdrawal can also cause morning headaches, says Dr. Cabin. “Large amounts of caffeine throughout the day and into the evening can cause caffeine-withdrawal headaches in the early morning. Cutting down on caffeine consumption, especially later in the day, can help with these types of headaches,” he says. Then, follow these 32 everyday habits that can\nreduce your risk of headaches\n.\nuzhursky\/Shutterstock\nSeek medical attention for severe headaches\nHeadaches that actually wake people from sleep in the middle of the night can be a sign of more serious, underlying disease, says Dr. Cabin. “If you find you are being woken up by headaches at unusual times, it is important to be checked by your doctor,” he advises. “And any extreme headache—especially with neurological changes like confusion or muscle weakness—could be a sign of a serious or even life-threatening condition and requires emergency medical attention,” he adds. Make sure you know the 16 signs your\nheadache could be something way worse\n.","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/reasons-waking-up-with-headache\/#content)\n\n![]()\n\nMENU\n\n[![The Healthy Logo](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/thehealthy-logo.svg)](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/)\n\n[![A Reader's Digest brand](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/a-readersdigest-brand-desktop.svg)](https:\/\/www.rd.com\/)\n\n- [Exercise](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/exercise\/)\n- [Nutrition](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/nutrition\/)\n- [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/mental-health\/)\n- [Self-Care](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/mental-health\/self-care\/)\n- [Book Offer](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Foods-That-Harm-Heal-Disease\/dp\/1621453820\/ref=sr_1_1?crid=SMLSEN0MR73K&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.YUbF7_qM7C8j7OAx2MdtqMy-BGFII056LXrh20jVBYzMgyR_HO7W0go3Mh8Ajl6th64Sb10ZsqSKP3FD7vUfgxGwrWrU3kqwai7gbcpVcyvzvbFfESwM88_LBoXYdZQbNxjqFf1BGADh-tjHgY9onesbhriWNdc4EP-VunBiZefbwfYav9v_R5QFbmJI3-QlMvw-KkUdJMswWvVwPLbCFgQSkMS-GNcqdpKUTuzuqy0.RFMkNfktpjGOxRApbq4WPDBpOMTaP8q71BxW_fxHdI8&dib_tag=se&keywords=foods+that+harm&qid=1719524611&sprefix=foods+that+harm%2Caps%2C112&sr=8-1)\n\n[![13 Surprising Things That Could Be Triggering Your Headaches](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/14-Weird-Headache-Causes-You-Didnt-Know-About-9.jpg?resize=72,72) 13 Surprising Things That Could Be Triggering Your Headaches](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/surprising-headache-causes\/)\n\n[![15 Signs Your Headache Could Be Something More Serious](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/01_headache_Signs-Your-Headache-is-More-Serious-Than-You-Think_374246986_Nikodash_FT.jpg?resize=72,72) 15 Signs Your Headache Could Be Something More Serious](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/headache-pain\/)\n\n[![12 Reasons You Might Have a Migraine (Besides Hormones)](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/shutterstock_640005241-e1533300534524.jpg?resize=72,72) 12 Reasons You Might Have a Migraine (Besides Hormones)](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/causes-of-migraines\/)\n\n[![Get a Lot of Headaches? Your Dental Health May Be to Blame](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/14D5C908-02D3-4513-A93E-76B8715FBF8C.jpeg?resize=72,72) Get a Lot of Headaches? Your Dental Health May Be to Blame](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/university-of-sydney-study-oral-hygiene-headache-pain\/)\n\n[![6 Surprising Reasons You Can’t Fall Asleep](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/12\/06-bad-sleep-cold-pillow-sl.jpg?resize=72,72) 6 Surprising Reasons You Can’t Fall Asleep](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/sleep\/cant-fall-asleep-surprising-reasons\/)\n\n[![13 Medical Reasons You’re Tired All the Time](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/12-4.jpg?resize=72,72) 13 Medical Reasons You’re Tired All the Time](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/fatigue\/tired-all-the-time\/)\n\n[![10 Medical Reasons Why You Can't Sleep](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_1074661856.jpg?resize=72,72) 10 Medical Reasons Why You Can't Sleep](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/sleep\/insomnia\/cant-sleep\/)\n\n[![8 Types of Headaches—and How to Get Rid of Them](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/10\/This-Infographic-Reveals-Your-Type-of-Headache-And-How-to-Fix-It-FT.jpg?resize=72,72) 8 Types of Headaches—and How to Get Rid of Them](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/types-of-headaches\/)\n\n[![11 Health Conditions That Could Be Messing with Your Sleep](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/00_Times-Your-Insomnia-Could-Be-a-Sign-of-Something-More-Serious_283359929_JL-Pfeifer_FT.jpg?resize=72,72) 11 Health Conditions That Could Be Messing with Your Sleep](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/sleep\/conditions-linked-to-poor-sleep\/)\n\n[![6 Surprising Reasons You Might Be Getting Nosebleeds](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/07-nose-bleed-Surprising-Reasons-You-Might-Be-Getting-Nosebleeds_278423477-FreeBirdPhotos-ft.jpg?resize=72,72) 6 Surprising Reasons You Might Be Getting Nosebleeds](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/first-aid\/what-causes-nosebleeds\/)\n\n[![11 ‘Harmless’ Habits That Actually Are Causing Your Insomnia](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/03\/don-t-feel-like-this-day.jpg?resize=72,72) 11 ‘Harmless’ Habits That Actually Are Causing Your Insomnia](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/sleep\/insomnia\/causes-of-insomnia\/)\n\n[![13 Strange Things You Didn't Know Were Wrecking Your Sleep](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/13-Strange-Things-You-Didnt-Know-Were-Wrecking-Your-Sleep-4.jpg?resize=72,72) 13 Strange Things You Didn't Know Were Wrecking Your Sleep](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/sleep\/strange-things-wrecking-your-sleep\/)\n\n[![12 Foods That Can Make Your Headaches Worse](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/shutterstock_594531614.jpg?resize=72,72) 12 Foods That Can Make Your Headaches Worse](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/headache-foods\/)\n\n[![Have a Headache After Sex? Here's What Can Cause This Bedroom Buzzkill](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Pink-red-powder-burst_GettyImages-1650225444.jpg?resize=72,72) Have a Headache After Sex? Here's What Can Cause This Bedroom Buzzkill](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/sex\/sex-headaches-causes-symptoms-prevention\/)\n\n[![16 Sneaky Signs You Need to See a Sleep Doctor](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/17-Sneaky-Signs-You-Need-to-See-a-Sleep-Doctor-4.jpg?resize=72,72) 16 Sneaky Signs You Need to See a Sleep Doctor](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/sleep\/when-to-see-a-sleep-doctor\/)\n\n[![10 Crazy Common Cold Symptoms You Probably Didn't Know About](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/00_Dreams_Crazy-Dreams-and-Nine-Other-Suprising-Common-Cold-Symptoms_407803816_Africa-Studio_FT.jpg?resize=72,72) 10 Crazy Common Cold Symptoms You Probably Didn't Know About](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/cold-flu\/surprising-common-cold-symptoms\/)\n\n[![The Sneaky Warning Signs a Migraine Is Coming—and How to Stop Them](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/Sneaky-Warning-Signs-of-a-Migraine-Headache%E2%80%94and-How-to-Stop-Them-ft2.gif?resize=72,72) The Sneaky Warning Signs a Migraine Is Coming—and How to Stop Them](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/warning-signs-migraine-headache\/)\n\n[![10 Natural Remedies for Headaches Worth Trying](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/06\/shutterstock_1075070309.jpg?resize=72,72) 10 Natural Remedies for Headaches Worth Trying](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/headache-relief-without-drugs-natural-remedies\/)\n\n[![13 Harmless Morning Habits that Are Sabotaging Your Day](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/05\/coffee-1.jpg?resize=72,72) 13 Harmless Morning Habits that Are Sabotaging Your Day](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/habits\/morning-habits-sabotage-day\/)\n\n[![8 Unexpected Reasons You’re Always Thirsty](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/2_walk_reasons_thirsty_Geber86.jpg?resize=72,72) 8 Unexpected Reasons You’re Always Thirsty](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/hydration\/always-thirsty\/)\n\n![10 Unexpected Reasons You’re Waking up with a Headache](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/00_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_508978354-twinsterphoto-feature-image_ft.jpg)\n\nTwinsterphoto\/Shutterstock\n\n[Home](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/)\n\n[Headaches and Migraines](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/)\n# 10 Unexpected Reasons You’re Waking up with a Headache\n![10 Unexpected Reasons You’re Waking up with a Headache](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/00_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_508978354-twinsterphoto-feature-image_ft.jpg)\n\nTwinsterphoto\/Shutterstock\n\n![Erica Lamberg](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Erica-Lamberg-profile-photo.png)![Renata Chalfin, MD](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/IMG_7019-Renata-Ch.jpg?resize=250,250)\n\nBy [Erica Lamberg](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/author\/ericalamberg\/)\n\nMedically reviewed by [Renata Chalfin, MD](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/author\/renata-chalfin\/)\n\nUpdated on Dec. 09, 2020\n\n**Getting your [Trinity Audio](https:\/\/trinityaudio.ai\/) player ready...**\n\nWhen you wake up with a headache, your morning won't be pleasant. We've asked health experts on what causes these early-morning headaches and what you can do to wake up with a clear head.\n\n![The Healthy Logo](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/thehealthy-logo.svg)\n\nⓘ\n\n[back to content](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/reasons-waking-up-with-headache\/)\n## Dehydration from alcohol\nDrinking too much at night can certainly wreck your morning. Alcohol can irritate blood vessels, leading to a [hangover headache](https:\/\/headaches.org\/resources\/the-complete-headache-chart\/), according to the National Headache Foundation. Stick to [moderate drinking](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/alcohol\/faqs.htm), defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. Here are more [tips for an easier and natural wake up](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/sleep\/how-to-wake-yourself-up\/).\n\n![person in bed reading their smartphone](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/02_sleep_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_600249005-eugenio-marongiu.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nEugenio Marongiu\/Shutterstock\n## Poor sleep patterns\nPrioritizing good sleep matters. Both sleep deprivation and getting too much sleep can [trigger migraines](https:\/\/americanmigrainefoundation.org\/resource-library\/sleep\/), according to the American Migraine Foundation. Catch is, people who have migraines are up to 8 times more likely to suffer from sleep disorders, making it even tougher to address the root of the problem. Keep bed and wake times consistent. These are the [8 types of headaches you can](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/types-of-headaches\/) get (and how to get rid of them).\n\n![woman sleeping on her back, arms over her head](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/03_sleepposition_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_193687565-igor-dutina.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nIgor Dutina\/Shutterstock\n## Awkward sleep position\nSleeping in an unusual position can result in muscle strain in the head and neck area, leading to morning headaches, says [Nada Milosavljevic](http:\/\/dr-milo.com\/), MD, a physician and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School in Boston. Proper support could help ease the likelihood that you’ll wake up in pain. Finding a pillow that feels soft yet supportive for the position that you sleep in.\n\n![woman sitting at a window looking down and holding her head](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/04_anxiety_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_578030665-voyagerix.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nVoyagerix\/Shutterstock\n## Mind-racing anxiety\nCalm your thoughts, ease the ache. [Anna Morrison](https:\/\/npino.com\/nurse\/1679925523-ms.-anna-elizabeth-morrison\/), a family nurse practitioner in Boca Raton, Florida, says anxiety is a leading cause of pain and ailment in the body. “From tense jaws to even tenser headaches, anxiety, though psychological, can have real, physical effects. If you’re waking up in the morning with headaches, I recommend deep breathing exercises or meditation before bed, as well as a quick ten-minute meditation in the morning. This will help reset your thoughts and keep any daily stresses at bay,” she says. Here’s [why morning anxiety is a thing](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/mental-health\/anxiety\/morning-anxiety\/).\n\n![person checking blood pressure with wrist device](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/05_blood_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_174195566-image-point-fr.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nImage Point Fr\/Shutterstock\n## Consider your blood pressure\nNot all [high blood pressure causes headaches](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/high-blood-pressure\/high-blood-pressure-headache\/), and most people never know they have high blood pressure or hypertension until they are seen for other symptoms unrelated to their blood pressure, explains [Melva E. Pinn-Bingham](https:\/\/www.vidanthealth.com\/Find-A-Doctor\/Provider-Listing\/Provider-Profile?providerid=11727&providername=MelvaE.-Pinn-Bingham-MD), MD, a radiation oncologist at Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC. “However, a very high or elevated blood pressure known as ‘malignant high blood pressure’ or ‘hypertensive crisis\/emergency’ has been linked to causing severe headaches and even vision problems such as blurry or double vision. It is important to seek immediate medical attention for this condition,” she says. Here’s how to tell [when high blood pressure is an emergency](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/high-blood-pressure\/when-is-high-blood-pressure-an-emergency\/).\n\n![silhouette of a woman in a window](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/06_depression_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_648829774-smolaw.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nsmolaw\/Shutterstock\n## Coping with untreated depression\nDepression can affect you even while you sleep. “One of the more common reasons for such headaches is depression,” says Dr. Pinn-Bingham. “To reduce the likelihood of getting these early morning headaches, it is important to get a good night sleep, follow your physician’s recommendations for treatment and support of depression. I always counsel on the importance of quitting smoking, reducing overall stress in your life and limiting alcohol intake,” she adds. Check out these other ways to [stop a headache before it starts](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/stop-a-headache-before-it-starts\/).\n\n![woman wincing and holding her jaw](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/07_teeth_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_673633999-andrey_popov.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nAndrey Popov\/Shutterstock\n## Grinding your teeth\nClenching, grinding, and gnashing your teeth at night can trigger head pain, says [Ronald Rosenthal](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/ronald-rosenthal-b0294b139\/), DDS, a now-retired dentist in Norfolk, VA. “This causes tremendous stress to the chewing muscles. And, when muscles are over-stressed, they can go into a painful spasm,” he explains. Consider a mouth-guard. Your dentist may recommend a custom-fit mouth guard, or you may be able to use an inexpensive over-the-counter device. Bet you didn’t know that there are 13 more surprising [things that could trigger headaches](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/surprising-headache-causes\/).\n\n![man on his side sleeping with his mouth open](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/08_apnea_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_185891267-baranq.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nbaranq\/Shutterstock\n## It may be sleep apnea\nExperts believe some morning headaches are related to specific activities of sleep. “Sleep apnea—unhealthy breaks in breathing during the night—can cause morning headaches related to high carbon dioxide levels,” explains [Jonathan Cabin](https:\/\/www.themigraineinstitute.com\/about-us\/dr-cabin\/), MD, director of The Migraine Institute in Beverly Hills, CA. Once a sleep apnea diagnosis is made, he says, medical interventions can help, as can lifestyle changes like weight loss.\n\n![woman sitting at a table with a cup of coffee; outdoors](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/09_caffeine_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_594875489-novak-elcic.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nnovak elcic\/Shutterstock\n## Caffeine withdrawal\nSurprisingly, caffeine withdrawal can also cause morning headaches, says Dr. Cabin. “Large amounts of caffeine throughout the day and into the evening can cause caffeine-withdrawal headaches in the early morning. Cutting down on caffeine consumption, especially later in the day, can help with these types of headaches,” he says. Then, follow these 32 everyday habits that can [reduce your risk of headaches](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/how-to-prevent-headaches\/).\n\n![Doctor discussing a diagnosis with a male patient](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/10_medical_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_430385632-uzhursky.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nuzhursky\/Shutterstock\n## Seek medical attention for severe headaches\nHeadaches that actually wake people from sleep in the middle of the night can be a sign of more serious, underlying disease, says Dr. Cabin. “If you find you are being woken up by headaches at unusual times, it is important to be checked by your doctor,” he advises. “And any extreme headache—especially with neurological changes like confusion or muscle weakness—could be a sign of a serious or even life-threatening condition and requires emergency medical attention,” he adds. Make sure you know the 16 signs your [headache could be something way worse](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/headache-pain\/).\n\nSources\n\n- [National Headache Foundation](https:\/\/headaches.org\/resources\/the-complete-headache-chart\/): “The Complete Headache Chart.”\n- [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/alcohol\/faqs.htm): “Alcohol and Public Health: Frequently Asked Questions.”\n- [American Migraine Foundation](https:\/\/americanmigrainefoundation.org\/resource-library\/sleep\/): “Sleep Disorders and Headache.”\n- [Nada Milosavljevic](http:\/\/dr-milo.com\/), MD, a physician and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School in Boston.\n- [Anna Morrison](https:\/\/npino.com\/nurse\/1679925523-ms.-anna-elizabeth-morrison\/), ARNP, FNP-BC, family nurse practitioner in Boca Raton, FL.\n- [Melva E. Pinn-Bingham](https:\/\/www.vidanthealth.com\/Find-A-Doctor\/Provider-Listing\/Provider-Profile?providerid=11727&providername=MelvaE.-Pinn-Bingham-MD), MD, radiation oncologist at Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC.\n- [Ronald Rosenthal](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/ronald-rosenthal-b0294b139\/), DDS, a now-retired dentist in Norfolk, VA.\n- [Jonathan Cabin](https:\/\/www.themigraineinstitute.com\/about-us\/dr-cabin\/), MD, director of The Migraine Institute in Beverly Hills, CA.\n\n![](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/themes\/bumblebee\/images\/hlt\/medical-review-check.png)Medically reviewed by [Renata Chalfin, MD](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/author\/renata-chalfin\/), on October 15, 2019\n\nMedical Reviewer\n\nRenata Chalfin, MD\n\nRenata Chalfin, MD, is a board-certified neurologist practicing in Boca Raton, Florida. Dr. Chalfin received a BA in Biology and Education from Cornell University, then went on to medical school at the University of Central Florida. She completed her internship and neurology residency at the University of Miami at Jackson Memorial Hospital. Through...\n\n[Read More](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/author\/renata-chalfin\/)\n\n![Renata Chalfin, MD](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/IMG_7019-Renata-Ch.jpg?resize=250,250)\n\n[![The Healthy 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[Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/thehealthy\/)\n  - [Twitter](https:\/\/twitter.com\/thehealthy)\n  - [Feedly](https:\/\/feedly.com\/i\/subscription\/feed%2Fhttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.thehealthy.com%2Ffeed%2F)","attrs_readable_markdown":"![10 Unexpected Reasons You’re Waking up with a Headache](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/00_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_508978354-twinsterphoto-feature-image_ft.jpg)\n\nTwinsterphoto\/Shutterstock\n\n![10 Unexpected Reasons You’re Waking up with a Headache](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/00_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_508978354-twinsterphoto-feature-image_ft.jpg)\n\nTwinsterphoto\/Shutterstock\n\n![Erica Lamberg](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Erica-Lamberg-profile-photo.png)![Renata Chalfin, MD](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/IMG_7019-Renata-Ch.jpg?resize=250,250)\n\nWhen you wake up with a headache, your morning won't be pleasant. We've asked health experts on what causes these early-morning headaches and what you can do to wake up with a clear head.\n\n## Dehydration from alcohol\nDrinking too much at night can certainly wreck your morning. Alcohol can irritate blood vessels, leading to a [hangover headache](https:\/\/headaches.org\/resources\/the-complete-headache-chart\/), according to the National Headache Foundation. Stick to [moderate drinking](https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/alcohol\/faqs.htm), defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. Here are more [tips for an easier and natural wake up](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/sleep\/how-to-wake-yourself-up\/).\n\n![person in bed reading their smartphone](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/02_sleep_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_600249005-eugenio-marongiu.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nEugenio Marongiu\/Shutterstock\n## Poor sleep patterns\nPrioritizing good sleep matters. Both sleep deprivation and getting too much sleep can [trigger migraines](https:\/\/americanmigrainefoundation.org\/resource-library\/sleep\/), according to the American Migraine Foundation. Catch is, people who have migraines are up to 8 times more likely to suffer from sleep disorders, making it even tougher to address the root of the problem. Keep bed and wake times consistent. These are the [8 types of headaches you can](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/types-of-headaches\/) get (and how to get rid of them).\n\n![woman sleeping on her back, arms over her head](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/03_sleepposition_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_193687565-igor-dutina.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nIgor Dutina\/Shutterstock\n## Awkward sleep position\nSleeping in an unusual position can result in muscle strain in the head and neck area, leading to morning headaches, says [Nada Milosavljevic](http:\/\/dr-milo.com\/), MD, a physician and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School in Boston. Proper support could help ease the likelihood that you’ll wake up in pain. Finding a pillow that feels soft yet supportive for the position that you sleep in.\n\n![woman sitting at a window looking down and holding her head](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/04_anxiety_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_578030665-voyagerix.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nVoyagerix\/Shutterstock\n## Mind-racing anxiety\nCalm your thoughts, ease the ache. [Anna Morrison](https:\/\/npino.com\/nurse\/1679925523-ms.-anna-elizabeth-morrison\/), a family nurse practitioner in Boca Raton, Florida, says anxiety is a leading cause of pain and ailment in the body. “From tense jaws to even tenser headaches, anxiety, though psychological, can have real, physical effects. If you’re waking up in the morning with headaches, I recommend deep breathing exercises or meditation before bed, as well as a quick ten-minute meditation in the morning. This will help reset your thoughts and keep any daily stresses at bay,” she says. Here’s [why morning anxiety is a thing](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/mental-health\/anxiety\/morning-anxiety\/).\n\n![person checking blood pressure with wrist device](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/05_blood_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_174195566-image-point-fr.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nImage Point Fr\/Shutterstock\n## Consider your blood pressure\nNot all [high blood pressure causes headaches](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/high-blood-pressure\/high-blood-pressure-headache\/), and most people never know they have high blood pressure or hypertension until they are seen for other symptoms unrelated to their blood pressure, explains [Melva E. Pinn-Bingham](https:\/\/www.vidanthealth.com\/Find-A-Doctor\/Provider-Listing\/Provider-Profile?providerid=11727&providername=MelvaE.-Pinn-Bingham-MD), MD, a radiation oncologist at Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC. “However, a very high or elevated blood pressure known as ‘malignant high blood pressure’ or ‘hypertensive crisis\/emergency’ has been linked to causing severe headaches and even vision problems such as blurry or double vision. It is important to seek immediate medical attention for this condition,” she says. Here’s how to tell [when high blood pressure is an emergency](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/high-blood-pressure\/when-is-high-blood-pressure-an-emergency\/).\n\n![silhouette of a woman in a window](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/06_depression_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_648829774-smolaw.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nsmolaw\/Shutterstock\n## Coping with untreated depression\nDepression can affect you even while you sleep. “One of the more common reasons for such headaches is depression,” says Dr. Pinn-Bingham. “To reduce the likelihood of getting these early morning headaches, it is important to get a good night sleep, follow your physician’s recommendations for treatment and support of depression. I always counsel on the importance of quitting smoking, reducing overall stress in your life and limiting alcohol intake,” she adds. Check out these other ways to [stop a headache before it starts](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/stop-a-headache-before-it-starts\/).\n\n![woman wincing and holding her jaw](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/07_teeth_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_673633999-andrey_popov.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nAndrey Popov\/Shutterstock\n## Grinding your teeth\nClenching, grinding, and gnashing your teeth at night can trigger head pain, says [Ronald Rosenthal](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/ronald-rosenthal-b0294b139\/), DDS, a now-retired dentist in Norfolk, VA. “This causes tremendous stress to the chewing muscles. And, when muscles are over-stressed, they can go into a painful spasm,” he explains. Consider a mouth-guard. Your dentist may recommend a custom-fit mouth guard, or you may be able to use an inexpensive over-the-counter device. Bet you didn’t know that there are 13 more surprising [things that could trigger headaches](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/surprising-headache-causes\/).\n\n![man on his side sleeping with his mouth open](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/08_apnea_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_185891267-baranq.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nbaranq\/Shutterstock\n## It may be sleep apnea\nExperts believe some morning headaches are related to specific activities of sleep. “Sleep apnea—unhealthy breaks in breathing during the night—can cause morning headaches related to high carbon dioxide levels,” explains [Jonathan Cabin](https:\/\/www.themigraineinstitute.com\/about-us\/dr-cabin\/), MD, director of The Migraine Institute in Beverly Hills, CA. Once a sleep apnea diagnosis is made, he says, medical interventions can help, as can lifestyle changes like weight loss.\n\n![woman sitting at a table with a cup of coffee; outdoors](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/09_caffeine_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_594875489-novak-elcic.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nnovak elcic\/Shutterstock\n## Caffeine withdrawal\nSurprisingly, caffeine withdrawal can also cause morning headaches, says Dr. Cabin. “Large amounts of caffeine throughout the day and into the evening can cause caffeine-withdrawal headaches in the early morning. Cutting down on caffeine consumption, especially later in the day, can help with these types of headaches,” he says. Then, follow these 32 everyday habits that can [reduce your risk of headaches](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/how-to-prevent-headaches\/).\n\n![Doctor discussing a diagnosis with a male patient](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/11\/10_medical_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_430385632-uzhursky.jpg?fit=700%2C467)\n\nuzhursky\/Shutterstock\n## Seek medical attention for severe headaches\nHeadaches that actually wake people from sleep in the middle of the night can be a sign of more serious, underlying disease, says Dr. Cabin. “If you find you are being woken up by headaches at unusual times, it is important to be checked by your doctor,” he advises. “And any extreme headache—especially with neurological changes like confusion or muscle weakness—could be a sign of a serious or even life-threatening condition and requires emergency medical attention,” he adds. Make sure you know the 16 signs your [headache could be something way worse](https:\/\/www.thehealthy.com\/headaches\/headache-pain\/).","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	Twinsterphoto/Shutterstock Twinsterphoto/Shutterstock When you wake up with a headache, your morning won't be pleasant. We've asked health experts on what causes these early-morning headaches and what you can do to wake up with a clear head. Dehydration from alcohol Drinking too much at night can certainly wreck your morning. Alcohol can irritate blood vessels, leading to a hangover headache , according to the National Headache Foundation. Stick to moderate drinking , defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. Here are more tips for an easier and natural wake up . Eugenio Marongiu/Shutterstock Poor sleep patterns Prioritizing good sleep matters. Both sleep deprivation and getting too much sleep can trigger migraines , according to the American Migraine Foundation. Catch is, people who have migraines are up to 8 times more likely to suffer from sleep disorders, making it even tougher to address the root of the problem. Keep bed and wake times consistent. These are the 8 types of headaches you can get (and how to get rid of them). Igor Dutina/Shutterstock Awkward sleep position Sleeping in an unusual position can result in muscle strain in the head and neck area, leading to morning headaches, says Nada Milosavljevic , MD, a physician and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School in Boston. Proper support could help ease the likelihood that you’ll wake up in pain. Finding a pillow that feels soft yet supportive for the position that you sleep in. Voyagerix/Shutterstock Mind-racing anxiety Calm your thoughts, ease the ache. Anna Morrison , a family nurse practitioner in Boca Raton, Florida, says anxiety is a leading cause of pain and ailment in the body. “From tense jaws to even tenser headaches, anxiety, though psychological, can have real, physical effects. If you’re waking up in the morning with headaches, I recommend deep breathing exercises or meditation before bed, as well as a quick ten-minute meditation in the morning. This will help reset your thoughts and keep any daily stresses at bay,” she says. Here’s why morning anxiety is a thing . Image Point Fr/Shutterstock Consider your blood pressure Not all high blood pressure causes headaches , and most people never know they have high blood pressure or hypertension until they are seen for other symptoms unrelated to their blood pressure, explains Melva E. Pinn-Bingham , MD, a radiation oncologist at Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC. “However, a very high or elevated blood pressure known as ‘malignant high blood pressure’ or ‘hypertensive crisis/emergency’ has been linked to causing severe headaches and even vision problems such as blurry or double vision. It is important to seek immediate medical attention for this condition,” she says. Here’s how to tell when high blood pressure is an emergency . smolaw/Shutterstock Coping with untreated depression Depression can affect you even while you sleep. “One of the more common reasons for such headaches is depression,” says Dr. Pinn-Bingham. “To reduce the likelihood of getting these early morning headaches, it is important to get a good night sleep, follow your physician’s recommendations for treatment and support of depression. I always counsel on the importance of quitting smoking, reducing overall stress in your life and limiting alcohol intake,” she adds. Check out these other ways to stop a headache before it starts . Andrey Popov/Shutterstock Grinding your teeth Clenching, grinding, and gnashing your teeth at night can trigger head pain, says Ronald Rosenthal , DDS, a now-retired dentist in Norfolk, VA. “This causes tremendous stress to the chewing muscles. And, when muscles are over-stressed, they can go into a painful spasm,” he explains. Consider a mouth-guard. Your dentist may recommend a custom-fit mouth guard, or you may be able to use an inexpensive over-the-counter device. Bet you didn’t know that there are 13 more surprising things that could trigger headaches . baranq/Shutterstock It may be sleep apnea Experts believe some morning headaches are related to specific activities of sleep. “Sleep apnea—unhealthy breaks in breathing during the night—can cause morning headaches related to high carbon dioxide levels,” explains Jonathan Cabin , MD, director of The Migraine Institute in Beverly Hills, CA. Once a sleep apnea diagnosis is made, he says, medical interventions can help, as can lifestyle changes like weight loss. novak elcic/Shutterstock Caffeine withdrawal Surprisingly, caffeine withdrawal can also cause morning headaches, says Dr. Cabin. “Large amounts of caffeine throughout the day and into the evening can cause caffeine-withdrawal headaches in the early morning. Cutting down on caffeine consumption, especially later in the day, can help with these types of headaches,” he says. Then, follow these 32 everyday habits that can reduce your risk of headaches . uzhursky/Shutterstock Seek medical attention for severe headaches Headaches that actually wake people from sleep in the middle of the night can be a sign of more serious, underlying disease, says Dr. Cabin. “If you find you are being woken up by headaches at unusual times, it is important to be checked by your doctor,” he advises. “And any extreme headache—especially with neurological changes like confusion or muscle weakness—could be a sign of a serious or even life-threatening condition and requires emergency medical attention,” he adds. Make sure you know the 16 signs your headache could be something way worse .
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When you wake up with a headache, your morning won't be pleasant. We've asked health experts on what causes these early-morning headaches and what you can do to wake up with a clear head. ![The Healthy Logo](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/thehealthy-logo.svg) ⓘ [back to content](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/reasons-waking-up-with-headache/) ## Dehydration from alcohol Drinking too much at night can certainly wreck your morning. Alcohol can irritate blood vessels, leading to a [hangover headache](https://headaches.org/resources/the-complete-headache-chart/), according to the National Headache Foundation. Stick to [moderate drinking](https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/faqs.htm), defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. Here are more [tips for an easier and natural wake up](https://www.thehealthy.com/sleep/how-to-wake-yourself-up/). ![person in bed reading their smartphone](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/02_sleep_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_600249005-eugenio-marongiu.jpg?fit=700%2C467) Eugenio Marongiu/Shutterstock ## Poor sleep patterns Prioritizing good sleep matters. Both sleep deprivation and getting too much sleep can [trigger migraines](https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/sleep/), according to the American Migraine Foundation. Catch is, people who have migraines are up to 8 times more likely to suffer from sleep disorders, making it even tougher to address the root of the problem. Keep bed and wake times consistent. These are the [8 types of headaches you can](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/types-of-headaches/) get (and how to get rid of them). ![woman sleeping on her back, arms over her head](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/03_sleepposition_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_193687565-igor-dutina.jpg?fit=700%2C467) Igor Dutina/Shutterstock ## Awkward sleep position Sleeping in an unusual position can result in muscle strain in the head and neck area, leading to morning headaches, says [Nada Milosavljevic](http://dr-milo.com/), MD, a physician and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School in Boston. Proper support could help ease the likelihood that you’ll wake up in pain. Finding a pillow that feels soft yet supportive for the position that you sleep in. ![woman sitting at a window looking down and holding her head](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/04_anxiety_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_578030665-voyagerix.jpg?fit=700%2C467) Voyagerix/Shutterstock ## Mind-racing anxiety Calm your thoughts, ease the ache. [Anna Morrison](https://npino.com/nurse/1679925523-ms.-anna-elizabeth-morrison/), a family nurse practitioner in Boca Raton, Florida, says anxiety is a leading cause of pain and ailment in the body. “From tense jaws to even tenser headaches, anxiety, though psychological, can have real, physical effects. If you’re waking up in the morning with headaches, I recommend deep breathing exercises or meditation before bed, as well as a quick ten-minute meditation in the morning. This will help reset your thoughts and keep any daily stresses at bay,” she says. Here’s [why morning anxiety is a thing](https://www.thehealthy.com/mental-health/anxiety/morning-anxiety/). ![person checking blood pressure with wrist device](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/05_blood_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_174195566-image-point-fr.jpg?fit=700%2C467) Image Point Fr/Shutterstock ## Consider your blood pressure Not all [high blood pressure causes headaches](https://www.thehealthy.com/high-blood-pressure/high-blood-pressure-headache/), and most people never know they have high blood pressure or hypertension until they are seen for other symptoms unrelated to their blood pressure, explains [Melva E. Pinn-Bingham](https://www.vidanthealth.com/Find-A-Doctor/Provider-Listing/Provider-Profile?providerid=11727&providername=MelvaE.-Pinn-Bingham-MD), MD, a radiation oncologist at Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC. “However, a very high or elevated blood pressure known as ‘malignant high blood pressure’ or ‘hypertensive crisis/emergency’ has been linked to causing severe headaches and even vision problems such as blurry or double vision. It is important to seek immediate medical attention for this condition,” she says. Here’s how to tell [when high blood pressure is an emergency](https://www.thehealthy.com/high-blood-pressure/when-is-high-blood-pressure-an-emergency/). ![silhouette of a woman in a window](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/06_depression_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_648829774-smolaw.jpg?fit=700%2C467) smolaw/Shutterstock ## Coping with untreated depression Depression can affect you even while you sleep. “One of the more common reasons for such headaches is depression,” says Dr. Pinn-Bingham. “To reduce the likelihood of getting these early morning headaches, it is important to get a good night sleep, follow your physician’s recommendations for treatment and support of depression. I always counsel on the importance of quitting smoking, reducing overall stress in your life and limiting alcohol intake,” she adds. Check out these other ways to [stop a headache before it starts](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/stop-a-headache-before-it-starts/). ![woman wincing and holding her jaw](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/07_teeth_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_673633999-andrey_popov.jpg?fit=700%2C467) Andrey Popov/Shutterstock ## Grinding your teeth Clenching, grinding, and gnashing your teeth at night can trigger head pain, says [Ronald Rosenthal](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronald-rosenthal-b0294b139/), DDS, a now-retired dentist in Norfolk, VA. “This causes tremendous stress to the chewing muscles. And, when muscles are over-stressed, they can go into a painful spasm,” he explains. Consider a mouth-guard. Your dentist may recommend a custom-fit mouth guard, or you may be able to use an inexpensive over-the-counter device. Bet you didn’t know that there are 13 more surprising [things that could trigger headaches](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/surprising-headache-causes/). ![man on his side sleeping with his mouth open](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/08_apnea_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_185891267-baranq.jpg?fit=700%2C467) baranq/Shutterstock ## It may be sleep apnea Experts believe some morning headaches are related to specific activities of sleep. “Sleep apnea—unhealthy breaks in breathing during the night—can cause morning headaches related to high carbon dioxide levels,” explains [Jonathan Cabin](https://www.themigraineinstitute.com/about-us/dr-cabin/), MD, director of The Migraine Institute in Beverly Hills, CA. Once a sleep apnea diagnosis is made, he says, medical interventions can help, as can lifestyle changes like weight loss. ![woman sitting at a table with a cup of coffee; outdoors](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/09_caffeine_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_594875489-novak-elcic.jpg?fit=700%2C467) novak elcic/Shutterstock ## Caffeine withdrawal Surprisingly, caffeine withdrawal can also cause morning headaches, says Dr. Cabin. “Large amounts of caffeine throughout the day and into the evening can cause caffeine-withdrawal headaches in the early morning. Cutting down on caffeine consumption, especially later in the day, can help with these types of headaches,” he says. Then, follow these 32 everyday habits that can [reduce your risk of headaches](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/how-to-prevent-headaches/). ![Doctor discussing a diagnosis with a male patient](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/10_medical_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_430385632-uzhursky.jpg?fit=700%2C467) uzhursky/Shutterstock ## Seek medical attention for severe headaches Headaches that actually wake people from sleep in the middle of the night can be a sign of more serious, underlying disease, says Dr. Cabin. “If you find you are being woken up by headaches at unusual times, it is important to be checked by your doctor,” he advises. “And any extreme headache—especially with neurological changes like confusion or muscle weakness—could be a sign of a serious or even life-threatening condition and requires emergency medical attention,” he adds. Make sure you know the 16 signs your [headache could be something way worse](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/headache-pain/). Sources - [National Headache Foundation](https://headaches.org/resources/the-complete-headache-chart/): “The Complete Headache Chart.” - [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/faqs.htm): “Alcohol and Public Health: Frequently Asked Questions.” - [American Migraine Foundation](https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/sleep/): “Sleep Disorders and Headache.” - [Nada Milosavljevic](http://dr-milo.com/), MD, a physician and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School in Boston. - [Anna Morrison](https://npino.com/nurse/1679925523-ms.-anna-elizabeth-morrison/), ARNP, FNP-BC, family nurse practitioner in Boca Raton, FL. - [Melva E. Pinn-Bingham](https://www.vidanthealth.com/Find-A-Doctor/Provider-Listing/Provider-Profile?providerid=11727&providername=MelvaE.-Pinn-Bingham-MD), MD, radiation oncologist at Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC. - [Ronald Rosenthal](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronald-rosenthal-b0294b139/), DDS, a now-retired dentist in Norfolk, VA. - [Jonathan Cabin](https://www.themigraineinstitute.com/about-us/dr-cabin/), MD, director of The Migraine Institute in Beverly Hills, CA. ![](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/themes/bumblebee/images/hlt/medical-review-check.png)Medically reviewed by [Renata Chalfin, MD](https://www.thehealthy.com/author/renata-chalfin/), on October 15, 2019 Medical Reviewer Renata Chalfin, MD Renata Chalfin, MD, is a board-certified neurologist practicing in Boca Raton, Florida. Dr. Chalfin received a BA in Biology and Education from Cornell University, then went on to medical school at the University of Central Florida. She completed her internship and neurology residency at the University of Miami at Jackson Memorial Hospital. Through... [Read More](https://www.thehealthy.com/author/renata-chalfin/) ![Renata Chalfin, MD](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/IMG_7019-Renata-Ch.jpg?resize=250,250) [![The Healthy Logo](data:image/svg+xml;base64,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)](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/reasons-waking-up-with-headache/%20https://www.thehealthy.com/%20) - 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Readable Markdown	![10 Unexpected Reasons You’re Waking up with a Headache](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/00_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_508978354-twinsterphoto-feature-image_ft.jpg) Twinsterphoto/Shutterstock ![10 Unexpected Reasons You’re Waking up with a Headache](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/00_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_508978354-twinsterphoto-feature-image_ft.jpg) Twinsterphoto/Shutterstock ![Erica Lamberg](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Erica-Lamberg-profile-photo.png)![Renata Chalfin, MD](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/IMG_7019-Renata-Ch.jpg?resize=250,250) When you wake up with a headache, your morning won't be pleasant. We've asked health experts on what causes these early-morning headaches and what you can do to wake up with a clear head. ## Dehydration from alcohol Drinking too much at night can certainly wreck your morning. Alcohol can irritate blood vessels, leading to a [hangover headache](https://headaches.org/resources/the-complete-headache-chart/), according to the National Headache Foundation. Stick to [moderate drinking](https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/faqs.htm), defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. Here are more [tips for an easier and natural wake up](https://www.thehealthy.com/sleep/how-to-wake-yourself-up/). ![person in bed reading their smartphone](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/02_sleep_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_600249005-eugenio-marongiu.jpg?fit=700%2C467) Eugenio Marongiu/Shutterstock ## Poor sleep patterns Prioritizing good sleep matters. Both sleep deprivation and getting too much sleep can [trigger migraines](https://americanmigrainefoundation.org/resource-library/sleep/), according to the American Migraine Foundation. Catch is, people who have migraines are up to 8 times more likely to suffer from sleep disorders, making it even tougher to address the root of the problem. Keep bed and wake times consistent. These are the [8 types of headaches you can](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/types-of-headaches/) get (and how to get rid of them). ![woman sleeping on her back, arms over her head](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/03_sleepposition_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_193687565-igor-dutina.jpg?fit=700%2C467) Igor Dutina/Shutterstock ## Awkward sleep position Sleeping in an unusual position can result in muscle strain in the head and neck area, leading to morning headaches, says [Nada Milosavljevic](http://dr-milo.com/), MD, a physician and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School in Boston. Proper support could help ease the likelihood that you’ll wake up in pain. Finding a pillow that feels soft yet supportive for the position that you sleep in. ![woman sitting at a window looking down and holding her head](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/04_anxiety_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_578030665-voyagerix.jpg?fit=700%2C467) Voyagerix/Shutterstock ## Mind-racing anxiety Calm your thoughts, ease the ache. [Anna Morrison](https://npino.com/nurse/1679925523-ms.-anna-elizabeth-morrison/), a family nurse practitioner in Boca Raton, Florida, says anxiety is a leading cause of pain and ailment in the body. “From tense jaws to even tenser headaches, anxiety, though psychological, can have real, physical effects. If you’re waking up in the morning with headaches, I recommend deep breathing exercises or meditation before bed, as well as a quick ten-minute meditation in the morning. This will help reset your thoughts and keep any daily stresses at bay,” she says. Here’s [why morning anxiety is a thing](https://www.thehealthy.com/mental-health/anxiety/morning-anxiety/). ![person checking blood pressure with wrist device](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/05_blood_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_174195566-image-point-fr.jpg?fit=700%2C467) Image Point Fr/Shutterstock ## Consider your blood pressure Not all [high blood pressure causes headaches](https://www.thehealthy.com/high-blood-pressure/high-blood-pressure-headache/), and most people never know they have high blood pressure or hypertension until they are seen for other symptoms unrelated to their blood pressure, explains [Melva E. Pinn-Bingham](https://www.vidanthealth.com/Find-A-Doctor/Provider-Listing/Provider-Profile?providerid=11727&providername=MelvaE.-Pinn-Bingham-MD), MD, a radiation oncologist at Vidant Roanoke-Chowan Hospital in Ahoskie, NC. “However, a very high or elevated blood pressure known as ‘malignant high blood pressure’ or ‘hypertensive crisis/emergency’ has been linked to causing severe headaches and even vision problems such as blurry or double vision. It is important to seek immediate medical attention for this condition,” she says. Here’s how to tell [when high blood pressure is an emergency](https://www.thehealthy.com/high-blood-pressure/when-is-high-blood-pressure-an-emergency/). ![silhouette of a woman in a window](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/06_depression_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_648829774-smolaw.jpg?fit=700%2C467) smolaw/Shutterstock ## Coping with untreated depression Depression can affect you even while you sleep. “One of the more common reasons for such headaches is depression,” says Dr. Pinn-Bingham. “To reduce the likelihood of getting these early morning headaches, it is important to get a good night sleep, follow your physician’s recommendations for treatment and support of depression. I always counsel on the importance of quitting smoking, reducing overall stress in your life and limiting alcohol intake,” she adds. Check out these other ways to [stop a headache before it starts](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/stop-a-headache-before-it-starts/). ![woman wincing and holding her jaw](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/07_teeth_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_673633999-andrey_popov.jpg?fit=700%2C467) Andrey Popov/Shutterstock ## Grinding your teeth Clenching, grinding, and gnashing your teeth at night can trigger head pain, says [Ronald Rosenthal](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronald-rosenthal-b0294b139/), DDS, a now-retired dentist in Norfolk, VA. “This causes tremendous stress to the chewing muscles. And, when muscles are over-stressed, they can go into a painful spasm,” he explains. Consider a mouth-guard. Your dentist may recommend a custom-fit mouth guard, or you may be able to use an inexpensive over-the-counter device. Bet you didn’t know that there are 13 more surprising [things that could trigger headaches](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/surprising-headache-causes/). ![man on his side sleeping with his mouth open](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/08_apnea_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_185891267-baranq.jpg?fit=700%2C467) baranq/Shutterstock ## It may be sleep apnea Experts believe some morning headaches are related to specific activities of sleep. “Sleep apnea—unhealthy breaks in breathing during the night—can cause morning headaches related to high carbon dioxide levels,” explains [Jonathan Cabin](https://www.themigraineinstitute.com/about-us/dr-cabin/), MD, director of The Migraine Institute in Beverly Hills, CA. Once a sleep apnea diagnosis is made, he says, medical interventions can help, as can lifestyle changes like weight loss. ![woman sitting at a table with a cup of coffee; outdoors](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/09_caffeine_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_594875489-novak-elcic.jpg?fit=700%2C467) novak elcic/Shutterstock ## Caffeine withdrawal Surprisingly, caffeine withdrawal can also cause morning headaches, says Dr. Cabin. “Large amounts of caffeine throughout the day and into the evening can cause caffeine-withdrawal headaches in the early morning. Cutting down on caffeine consumption, especially later in the day, can help with these types of headaches,” he says. Then, follow these 32 everyday habits that can [reduce your risk of headaches](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/how-to-prevent-headaches/). ![Doctor discussing a diagnosis with a male patient](https://www.thehealthy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/10_medical_unexpected-reasons-you-re-waking-up-with-a-headache_430385632-uzhursky.jpg?fit=700%2C467) uzhursky/Shutterstock ## Seek medical attention for severe headaches Headaches that actually wake people from sleep in the middle of the night can be a sign of more serious, underlying disease, says Dr. Cabin. “If you find you are being woken up by headaches at unusual times, it is important to be checked by your doctor,” he advises. “And any extreme headache—especially with neurological changes like confusion or muscle weakness—could be a sign of a serious or even life-threatening condition and requires emergency medical attention,” he adds. Make sure you know the 16 signs your [headache could be something way worse](https://www.thehealthy.com/headaches/headache-pain/).
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