Rebound headache, the headache linked to drug abuse
Rebound headache indicates headaches related to drug abuse. Headaches are one of the disorders in which the use of drugs, especially painkillers, to relieve symptoms is highest
This can lead to a recurrence of migraine a few days later.
The causes of this phenomenon are not entirely known, but scientific studies have shown that the body has a period of adaptation to the medication that precedes the flare-up of symptoms.
In addition to painkillers, the same effects occur with the use of opiates and barbiturates.
What is rebound headache?
A rebound headache is defined as a form of migraine related to overuse of medication.
The frequency with which this type of headache occurs depends on the type of drug, dose and duration of intake.
Scientific studies have shown that the use of painkillers more than twice a week increases the likelihood of a flare-up of symptoms.
What are the causes of rebound headache?
The cause of rebound headache is generally to be attributed to the overuse of painkillers.
It is not yet clear how these drugs interact with the predisposition of the headache sufferer.
Misuse of medication is a well-known phenomenon for sufferers of recurrent migraine.
In particular, it is most frequently associated with painkillers, such as acetylisalicylic acid, ibuprofen, paracetamol, which can be bought freely.
In other cases, even those that can only be sold with a doctor’s prescription, such as triptans, opiates, barbiturates can be used beyond the recommended doses, leading to intoxication that encourages the return of migraine symptoms.
Scientific studies have shown that the body has a period of adaptation to the analgesic action of these drugs, which soothe pain.
This phase precedes, however, a new, sometimes even more intense explosion of migraine symptoms.
What are the symptoms of rebound headache?
The symptoms are common to those of other forms of migraine and vary in intensity and duration.
They may include:
- Acute concentrated or pulsating pain in one or more places in the head, particularly in the front, frontal or lateral area.
- Pain and stiffness in the neck
- Confusion, lack of concentration, attention and memory
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Weakness
- Speech difficulties
- Visual disturbances
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia), sounds (phonophobia), smells
- Sweating
- Abdominal pain
These symptoms can progress to sleep disorders and depression.
How to prevent rebound headache?
Prevention of rebound headache consists of careful use of medication.
The recommended doses should not be exceeded and use should not be prolonged beyond the time stipulated by the doctor.
Self-medication is very dangerous.
Alongside these precautions, there are useful recommendations for sufferers of recurring migraine: avoid noisy environments, excessively bright places, pungent and persistent smells such as perfumes, reduce consumption of alcohol, caffeine and tobacco, avoid stress, take regular but moderate exercise, and follow a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet.
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