Rebound headaches occur after an individual uses pain medications more than the recommended dosage. Overusing or misuse of analgesics can trigger rebound headaches. Once the medication wears off, the individual experiences withdrawal which urges him/her to take more medication that only leads to another headache and the need to use more medications.
As the cycle continues, the individual suffers from chronic headaches with intense pain and the episodes are more frequent. Overusing analgesics disrupt with the brain centers that control the flow of pain messages to the nervous system, thus worsening the pain.
Who are at risk?
Individuals who have a history of migraines or tension-type headaches can suffer from rebound headaches if he/she misuses certain medications. Some rapidly develop episodes by overusing analgesics even without experiencing headaches before.
Are analgesics responsible?
Various commonly used pain-relief medications that are taken in large amounts are known to induce rebound headaches. These include sinus relief medications, aspirin, acetaminophen, sedatives, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), codeine, narcotics and even over-the-counter remedies that contain caffeine.
Treatment
A rebound headache is considered as a progressive syndrome in which it continues to worsen until proper treatment is started. It is vital to determine what is happening and seek medical care.
In most cases, discontinuing the use or gradually limiting the dosage will make the episodes easier to control. It is recommended to note down the symptoms particularly the duration and frequency.
In some individuals, detoxification is needed under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Those who used large doses of sedative hypnotics, narcotics and headache medications containing sedatives require admission at a healthcare facility to be detoxified and recover under close supervision.
It is sad to note that those who suffer from chronic daily headaches can suffer from increasing headaches during the initial weeks of the detoxification process. This is why supervision by a doctor is vital.
Over time, the episodes subside and resume their previous intermittent nature. Those who were given prescription medications find them more effective.
Prevention
It is vital to carefully follow the instructions on the packaging and advice given by the doctor when using certain medications.
Use pain medications only when needed. The minimal dosage needed to reduce the pain must be used. Avoid using the medications more than once or twice in a week unless instructed by the doctor.
Before the individual decides to use any over-the-counter medication include commonly used antihistamines and analgesics, consult a doctor first if they might interact with his/her current medications. In addition, avoid caffeine-based products while using pain medications particularly those that already includes caffeine.