Find out about rebound headache, the most common chronic daily headache. Learn its causes, prevention, symptoms, and treatment options you need to know.
Rebound Headache and Treatment
A rebound headache, also called a medication overuse headache, can occur when you take pain medication too often. The term "rebound headache" describes a cluster of symptoms that appears when you stop taking the medication.
Rebound headaches vary from common headaches such as tension or migraines. They are more likely to occur if you take pain medication more than two or three days a week.
If you have a rebound headache, you may need to stop taking the pain medication and see a doctor for other treatment options.
What Is Rebound Headache?
Rebound headache is a type of headache that occurs when pain medication is overused. Pain medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, can be helpful when used as directed. However, using pain medication too often or too long can lead to rebound headaches.
The headaches often occur in people who have migraines or tension headaches. They can also occur in people who do not have a history of headaches.
Symptoms of Rebound Headache
These headaches are often caused by muscle tension in the head and neck, which can be very painful. People who suffer from rebound headaches often find that their pain worsens in the morning, and the pain intensifies as the day progresses. The pain may also be worse when they are under stress.
There are several ways to tell if you are suffering from rebound headaches.
Your headaches will likely become more frequent.
You may also find that your headaches last longer than they used to and are more severe.
If you suffer from migraines, you may also find that your headaches may likely occur when you are stressed. If you have never suffered from migraines or tension headaches, you may not notice these changes immediately.
You must see a medical doctor if you suspect rebound headaches. He will help confirm whether you have this condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Causes of Rebound Headache
There are a few possible causes of rebound headaches.
Pain medication: People who regularly take pain medication (including over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen) may develop headaches when they stop taking the medication. That is because the body becomes used to the pain medication and has trouble functioning without it.
Dehydration: When the body doesn't have enough fluids, it can lead to rebound headaches.
Stress can also cause tension headaches, which may become rebound headaches if not treated.
If you regularly take pain medication for your headaches, you must seek medical advice about the best way to stop them. Abruptly stopping can cause withdrawal symptoms hence the need for a doctor's supervision.
Prevention of Rebound Headache
You can take some precautions to prevent rebound headaches from happening.
Follow doctor’s prescription: It is essential to take your medication as prescribed by your doctor. If you skip a dose, do not makeup by taking extra medication. That can lead to a rebound headache.
Avoid alcohol: Do not drink alcohol while taking medication for a headache. Alcohol can make rebound headaches worse.
Find a doctor: If you have a headache that is not improving with over-the-counter medication, it is essential to see your doctor. They may prescribe a different medication less likely to cause a rebound headache.
By following these simple tips, you can help prevent rebound headaches from occurring.
Treatment of Rebound Headache
There are many ways to treat rebound headaches, and the best method depends on the individual.
Some people may find relief with over-the-counter medications.
Other people may need prescription-strength drugs.
The first step in treating rebound headaches is to identify the underlying cause. If the cause is medication overuse, the person must stop taking the offending medication. That can be difficult, as the person may experience withdrawal symptoms. A doctor can help to taper off the medication gradually to minimize these symptoms.
In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary to treat rebound headaches. These can include anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, or triptans, used to treat migraines. Opioids may also be used in some cases, but they should only be taken as directed by a doctor.
Treatment of Rebound Headache Depends on an Individual
If you think you are suffering from rebound headaches, it is essential to see a doctor. He will determine whether or not you are suffering from this condition and will be able to prescribe the appropriate treatment. There are many ways to treat rebound headaches, and the best method depends on the individual. With the proper treatment, you can find relief from this condition.
