Headaches and migraines are extremely common, but often misunderstood. This article consolidates critical information on their causes, triggers, and effective management, drawing from expert advice and recent research. Ignoring severe or chronic headaches can be dangerous, as they may indicate underlying medical conditions or lead to medication-overuse headaches.
The Dangers of Overusing Pain Relief
Over-the-counter pain relievers like Excedrin (which often contains aspirin, acetaminophen, and caffeine) can worsen headaches if used too frequently. This phenomenon, known as medication-overuse headache (MOH), creates a vicious cycle where relief becomes dependence. MOH is often chronic and harder to treat than the original headache.
Common Triggers and Risk Factors
Many factors contribute to headaches and migraines:
- Diet: Certain foods (aged cheeses, processed meats, chocolate, alcohol) can trigger attacks in susceptible individuals.
- Medications: Ironically, some medications—including acid reflux drugs—have been linked to increased migraine frequency and severity.
- Age: Migraines change over time; they may decrease in frequency after age 60, but can still occur.
- Underlying Conditions: Chronic migraines may signal other issues, so proper diagnosis is crucial.
Treatment Options: From Aspirin to Cannabis
Effective management varies by headache type and severity:
- NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Aspirin and ibuprofen can provide relief for mild to moderate pain.
- Prescription Medications: For chronic migraines, doctors may prescribe preventative drugs or stronger pain relievers.
- Alternative Therapies: Cannabis is being explored as a potential treatment, though research is still ongoing. Always consult a doctor before using cannabis for medical purposes.
Diagnosing Chronic Migraines
Accurate diagnosis is essential. If headaches are frequent, severe, or accompanied by neurological symptoms (vision changes, weakness), see a medical professional. Migraines are often diagnosed based on symptom patterns and medical history.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Severe headaches with sudden onset, fever, stiff neck, confusion, or neurological deficits require immediate emergency care. These symptoms may indicate a stroke, meningitis, or other life-threatening condition.
Chronic headaches are not simply “something to live with.” Proactive management, accurate diagnosis, and avoiding overuse of medication are key to long-term well-being. Ignoring pain can lead to worse outcomes; seeking professional advice is always the safest approach.
