Medication Overuse Headaches
Last week we addressed the Top 10 Migraine Triggers. Number 10 on that list is medication overuse headaches (“MOH”). Medication overuse headaches are caused by overuse of medications, including both prescription and over the counter medications (most commonly, Advil, Aleve, Excedrin, Triptans, Caffeine, Codeine, Oxycodone, and other similar medications).
If someone has an existing headache disorder, but is still experiencing 15 or more headache days per month for three or more months, while continuing use of the medication for treating the headache, they may also now be dealing with medication overuse headaches. With this type of headache, the location, character, and severity varies greatly between different individuals. However, these headaches generally occur on a daily or near-daily basis and are first noticed immediately upon waking up. The symptoms will generally resolve or improve with further medication use, but will return immediately upon the medication wearing off.
What To Do: First and foremost, it is important to stop taking the medication that is being overused, however, doing so should be completed by the process set by your headache care provider, to avoid making the situation worse. Beyond that, understanding the proper dosages and limitations of medications is important to avoid new or continued medication overuse headaches, this is why we believe that patient education is a hugely important part of your care.
If you need help please call us at 860-263-3603.