Medicine For Headache
Whether you suffer from headaches regularly or are experiencing a migraine for the first time, there are many options for medicine for headaches. There are also many options for different headaches, such as tension headaches, migraines, and allergy headaches.
Migraine
Several kinds of medications are used to treat migraine. Some are prescription only, while others are available over the counter. It would help if you always talked to your doctor before taking new medication.
The Choosing Wise Campaign recommends that you avoid using opioid medications for migraine. It also suggests that you have regular migraine screenings and ask your doctor to help you keep a headache diary.
You can also try some natural remedies to treat your migraine. Some of these include melatonin, omega-3 fatty acids, and riboflavin. Consider adding acupressure to your treatment. Acupressure involves applying firm pressure to certain points on your body. This may help you relax and relieve your pain.
Another alternative migraine treatment is to take a low dose of aspirin. Several studies have shown that aspirin can help relieve pain. However, aspirin comes with the risk of stomach bleeding. You should also avoid taking acetaminophen and alcohol.
Tension-type headache
Using medicines for tension-type headaches can cause several side effects. These can include fatigue, irregular heartbeat, and cough. If you have tension headaches, you must talk to your doctor before taking any medication.
Some medications can be addictive and cause organ problems. You should also avoid taking certain medications if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Other medicines have side effects such as constipation and dry mouth. You should also avoid certain foods if you have tension-type headaches.
Medicines for tension-type headaches can be used with non-drug therapies to help reduce symptoms. Some non-drug therapies include acupuncture, cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation, and biofeedback. These methods are often used in conjunction with prescription medications to reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches.
These medicines should not be used with combination therapies with opioids, as this can cause rebound headaches. Some of the common medications for tension-type headaches include tricyclic antidepressants and venlafaxine.
Tension-type headaches are often brought on by stress. These headaches are also associated with changes in position.
Cluster headache
Fortunately, some medicines for cluster headaches can help relieve the pain. Some treatments work to block pain signals, and other drugs work to suppress attacks. The type of medicine you choose depends on how frequently you have cluster headaches and how long they last.
Corticosteroids, also known as steroid medications, are used to treat pain. They can be taken in either inhalation or intranasal form. They have been shown to reduce the frequency of cluster headache attacks but can also cause side effects. Some may also cause hypertension or diabetes.
Calcium channel blockers are often used to prevent cluster headaches. They may cause fatigue, constipation, and swelling of the ankles. They are also used in combination with other medications.
Occipital nerve stimulation is also an option. It involves placing electrodes on the back of your head, connected to a small pacemaker-like device. This procedure is usually used in conjunction with verapamil.
Allergy headaches
Getting allergy headaches is a very frustrating experience. While they are not life-threatening, they can be very painful and debilitating. The good news is that they are treatable. The first step in getting relief is identifying the headaches’ triggers.
An allergist can help you identify these triggers. The most common triggers include smoke, pollen, animal dander, dust, and certain foods. You can try changing your cleaning methods, diet, and schedule to prevent headaches. You can also avoid triggers by avoiding certain plants, window fans, and strong-scented products.
There are several over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can help. These include decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, and antihistamine nasal sprays. These can help reduce swelling in the blood vessels and mucus.
Intranasal corticosteroids can also help reduce nasal congestion and itch. They are effective in treating allergic rhinitis. You should consult your doctor before using them.
Symptoms of sinus headaches include nasal congestion, facial pain, and jaw pain. They may also be accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and lightheadedness.