Getting headaches can be a real pain, but there are things you can do to treat them and relieve the pain. Here are some common medicines for headaches and pain relievers you can buy at the drugstore.
Migraines
Approximately 15 percent of adults experience headaches at some point during their lives. This condition can be debilitating and interfere with daily activities. However, there are ways to prevent and control migraines. These treatments can include medication, self-help, and lifestyle changes. Identifying migraine triggers can reduce your risk of experiencing the condition.
Migraines are usually diagnosed by a medical professional. Your doctor will do a physical exam and review your medical history. They may also perform bloodwork or an MRI to determine if your symptoms are migraines.
If you suffer from migraines, it’s important to maintain a diary to record your symptoms and triggers. These triggers include environmental factors, such as food, sleep, and stress. It is also helpful to record your menstrual cycle.
Migraines can also be caused by genetics. About half of migraine sufferers have a family member with migraines.
Tension headaches
Among the most common types of headaches, tension headaches are characterized by mild to moderate pain that may radiate from the neck and other parts of the head. They are generally not disabling and may not be life-threatening. However, they can be extremely annoying.
Tension headaches may be caused by stress or other problems. They may also be caused by changes in neurotransmitters. If your tension headaches are caused by changes in your neurotransmitters, you may be able to control them by taking a medication. These medicines can help reduce the pain and frequency of headaches.
Other methods for treating tension headaches include acupuncture and cognitive-behavioral therapy. They can also help you identify stressors that may be triggering your headaches. You can also reduce your stress by making some lifestyle changes.
Cluster headaches
Those with cluster headaches can suffer from headaches for weeks or months without warning. These attacks can occur as often as once a day or as seldom as once a month. Generally, the pain is centered on the face and is characterized by a nonfluctuating intensity. Occasionally, the pain can be more intense during the night than during the day.
Cluster headaches are caused by a nerve pathway in the base of the brain. These nerves are part of the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for facial sensations. It also releases neuropeptides that cause pain and autonomic symptoms.
These headaches are usually accompanied by eye problems that can appear on the same side as the pain. It is believed that the nerve pathway is triggered by a sudden release of histamine and serotonin.
Over-the-counter pain relievers
Using OTC pain relievers for headaches can be an effective way to alleviate the pain. However, they can also be dangerous. If taken at the wrong time or dose, they can cause serious health issues. For example, acetaminophen can cause liver damage. Aspirin may also cause stomach bleeding.
Medications for headaches include analgesics, antipyretics, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Choosing the right drug for your headache can help relieve the pain and keep you functioning normally. A headache is caused by inflammation of blood vessels surrounding the brain. The most common medications for headache include acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen.
When used for migraines, aspirin can be an effective OTC pain reliever. The drug works by blocking enzymes that produce prostaglandins. Prostaglandins cause pain by triggering inflammation responses. Taking acetaminophen reduces prostaglandins, but it does not reduce inflammation.
Common medicines for headaches
Medications for headaches are available both over the counter and prescription. The best choice depends on the severity and frequency of your headaches.
Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines for headaches include acetaminophen, aspirin, and naproxen. These drugs are effective for headaches, but they can cause unwanted side effects.
Prescription medicines for headaches include tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline (Elavil) and protriptyline (Amiprana). These drugs may be taken for a few days to treat headaches. They may also be used to prevent them.
Opioids are also used to treat migraines. They can be dangerous if used in high doses, however. They can cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms. You should avoid using these medications if you are pregnant. If you have kidney problems, avoid using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Triptans are another type of medicine used to treat migraines. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. They also narrow blood vessels and reduce inflammation.