New Delhi: Popping painkillers for every little pain is a common habit that we all follow in some way or another, but do you know the harmful effects of painkillers? Among all the toxic effects one is headache, if you are prone to headaches it probably means you are used to stocking up on painkillers. According to some reports, medication overuse headaches are chronic headaches that are set off by the overuse of medication that treats painkillers for other reasons.
Dr P. R. Krishnan, Senior Consultant Neurology, Fortis Hospital Bannerghatta Road told News9, “Headaches are a common problem, and many of us reach for painkillers to find relief. But what happens when these painkillers become the cause of your headaches? This phenomenon, known as medication overuse headache (MOH), can turn the search for relief into an even worse cycle of pain.”
What is a Medication Overuse Headache?
According to Dr Krishnan, “Medication overuse headache occurs when frequent pain relief medications lead to more headaches. You take painkillers to relieve a headache, but then the headache returns, often worse, leading you to take more painkillers. This cycle of overuse continues, with headaches becoming more frequent.”
Why does it Happen?
Several factors contribute to the development of MOH:
• Frequent Use: Taking painkillers more than two or three times a week can increase the risk of MOH.
• Types of Medications: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen, as well as prescription drugs like triptans and opioids, can all cause MOH if overused. Frequent use of pain balms can also cause MOH.
• Individual Susceptibility: Some individuals may be more prone to MOH due to genetic factors or pre-existing conditions like chronic migraines.
Consequences of MOH
There are several impacts of Medication Overuse Headaches:
• Increased Frequency: Headaches become more frequent and harder to manage without medication.
• Chronic Pain: What starts as occasional headaches can evolve into chronic daily headaches.
• Decreased Quality of Life: Constant headaches can interfere with daily activities, work, and overall well-being.
• Dependency: A reliance on painkillers can develop, making it difficult to break the cycle without professional help.
Breaking the Cycle
Escaping the trap of MOH involves a few steps:
• Identify the Problem: Recognise the signs of MOH and accept that frequent painkiller use might be contributing to your headaches.
• Consult a Healthcare Professional: Seek guidance from a neurologist or headache specialist to create a plan tailored to your needs. This may involve slowly getting off painkillers and finding alternative treatments.
• Alternative Pain Management: Explore non-medication treatments such as physical therapy, acupuncture, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle changes like regular exercise and a balanced diet.
• Preventive Medications: Your doctor might prescribe preventive medications to reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.
• Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the risks of overusing painkillers and the benefits of alternative treatments.
Medication overuse headache is a challenging condition that turns your efforts to relieve pain into a source of more pain. Understanding it and recognizing the signs are the first steps toward breaking the cycle. With the help of healthcare professionals and by exploring alternative pain management strategies, you can regain control over your headaches and improve your quality of life.
Headaches are a common problem, and many of us reach for painkillers to find relief. But what happens when these painkillers become the cause of your headaches? This phenomenon, known as medication overuse headache (MOH), can turn the search for relief into an even worse cycle of pain. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
