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One of the most common health complaints dispatchers have is headaches.
I remember we had a rather large bottle of Aspirin in the dispatch center.
We labeled it, "For Road Patrol Relief".
The problem wasn't the guys on the road, but the tension we experienced in
our jobs. While there are many reasons for a headache there are several
things that can lead to one and they are things we can deal with and avoid.
Common Triggers for Headaches include:
Stress: The reaction to stress can cause the muscles to tense,
especially in the neck and upper back. When this is sustained over a long
period of time it can lead to headaches and in some cases migraines. Solution:
Practice deep breathing and progressive relaxation exercises. Meditation
has also been shown to help headache sufferers.
Diet: Some substances such as caffeine, red wine, processed
meats, chocolate, cheese, citrus fruits, and monosodium glutamate (MSG) have
been shown to cause headaches. Solution: Avoid these
substances or least control their intake.
Eyestrain: When you stare at one thing for too long this can fatigue
the eye muscles and cause headaches. Solution: Roll your
eyes around in the sockets, 10 times to the left and 10 times to the right once
every hour. Avert your eyes occasionally and look elsewhere.
Sitting: As dispatchers we sit a lot. It is a part of the
job. However, this can tighten the muscles in the aforementioned areas and
cause headaches. Solution: Get up as much as possible, if
only to stand. Stretch. During breaks take a walk down the hall. If
you can't get up from the chair at least shift positions, and like Mom always
said, try to sit up straight.
Sleep: Either too little or too much can lead to
headaches. Try to go to bed (whatever shift you are on), and rise the same
time every day. It sets your "clock" and keeps you steady.
While these are not inclusive, and there are other biological reasons for
headaches, many are caused by stress and strain. Follow these tips to see if
they help.
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