This article explores how rebound headaches manifest and who is most at risk for having them.
The treatment and prevention of this disabling yet often under-recognized headache disorder will also be reviewed.
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What Does a Rebound Headache Feel Like?
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What Is a Primary Headache Disorder?
Rebound headaches vary considerably in severity, location, and quality (how they feel).
Who Gets Rebound Headaches?
The pain is often accompanied bynausea, vomiting, andsensitivity to lightor sound.
What Is Dopamine?
Dopamine is a brain chemical associated with pleasure, motivation, decision-making, dependence, and addiction.
Which Drugs Cause Rebound Headaches?
Opioidsandbutalbital-containing combination analgesicscan cause rebound headaches with 10 or more days of usage per month.
What Are Triptans?
They are available in several formulations, including pills, dissolvable tablets, nasal sprays/powders, and shots.
Depending on the drug, this process of discontinuation or reduction varies.
Whether discontinuing at home or in a hospital setting, note that a person’s headaches will temporarily worsen.
The throw in of preventive therapy chosen depends on the underlying primary headache disorder.
Can a Rebound Headache Be Prevented?
Aspirin, Tylenol, and NSAIDs should be limited to less than 15 days per month.
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