Headaches: Managing a Headache

Headaches: Managing a Headache

Introduction

You can reduce how many headaches you get and how bad they are when you do get them. Try to:

  • Find and avoid triggers that cause your headaches.
  • Carry your medicine with you so you can treat a headache right away when you feel one starting. This is especially important if you get migraines.
  • Don't take over-the-counter pain relievers more than 3 times a week, because you may get rebound headaches. These headaches usually occur after pain medicine has worn off. This prompts you to take another dose. After a while, you get a headache whenever you stop taking the medicine.
  • Take drugs that cause the fewest side effects, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (for example, aspirin and ibuprofen).
  • Exercise regularly, eat well, and reduce stress.
  • Work with your doctor to find the best treatment for your headaches.

What? - What is the medical information or key concepts related to the action? What is the best way to treat and prevent headaches?
Why? - Why the action is important? Why should you quickly manage your headache?
How? - Learn the steps involved in taking action. How do you manage a headache?
Where? - Other resources and organizations that can help you take action. Where to go from here

Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Colin Chalk, MD, CM, FRCPC - Neurology
Last Updated:
May 16, 2012
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