Long hair itself does not directly cause headaches, as hair strands do not contain nerves. However, the way long hair is managed, particularly with certain hairstyles, can indeed lead to discomfort and headaches. This common experience has a physiological basis, stemming from the interaction between hair and the sensitive structures of the scalp.
Understanding How Hair Can Cause Headaches
The primary reason long hair can cause headaches relates to the extensive network of nerves located in the scalp and around hair follicles. When hair is pulled tightly, these sensitive nerves can become irritated. This sustained tension or pressure from hairstyles, such as tight ponytails, buns, or braids, can trigger an external compression headache or a tension-type headache.
The constant pulling on hair follicles activates pain pathways, sending signals to the brain’s pain processing centers. This can lead to a sensation of tightness or a “grinding” pain in the head. For individuals already prone to migraines or tension headaches, this external stimulus can even trigger “ponytail migraine.” Additionally, the sheer weight of very long or wet hair can contribute to this discomfort by placing mechanical stress on the head and neck muscles, causing them to work harder. This added strain can radiate from the neck to the scalp.
Practical Steps to Prevent Hair-Related Headaches
To prevent headaches caused by hair, adjusting styling practices can make a significant difference. Opting for looser hairstyles reduces the direct pressure on scalp nerves and hair follicles. Instead of high ponytails or tight topknots, consider lower ponytails at the nape of the neck or loose braids, which help distribute the hair’s weight and tension more evenly across the scalp.
Using softer hair ties, such as scrunchies made of fabric like velvet, silk, or cotton, can also minimize pulling and friction on the hair and scalp. These materials are gentler and do not concentrate pressure as much as traditional elastic bands. Varying hairstyles and taking breaks from having hair tied up allows the scalp and its nerves to recover from constant tension. For those with particularly heavy or thick hair, discussing layered cuts with a hairdresser can help reduce overall weight and alleviate strain without sacrificing length.
When Headaches Aren’t Just About Your Hair
While hair-related headaches are often a direct result of external pressure, it is important to recognize when a headache might signal a broader health concern. Headaches that are persistent, unusually severe, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms warrant medical evaluation. For instance, a sudden, new, and severe headache, especially if described as “the worst ever,” requires immediate medical attention.
Other signs that indicate a need for professional medical advice include headaches accompanied by:
- A stiff neck
- Fever
- Vision changes
- Numbness or weakness in the limbs
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- A headache that occurs after a head injury
Headaches that worsen over 24 hours, disrupt sleep or daily activities, or occur more frequently than usual should also be discussed with a healthcare provider. These symptoms could be indicative of underlying conditions that extend beyond simple scalp tension.