Head aches come in many varieties. The National Headache Foundation divides head aches into two categories: primary (tension, cluster and migraines) and secondary (of an organic cause). They can be triggered by hormone fluctuations, medications, foods, weather and stress. While some people might just experience a dull pain, others may be debilitated by a piercing sensation or even see auras. Luckily there are several options that can both treat and prevent head aches and their symptoms.
Analgesics
According to the Mayo Clinic, analgesic pain relievers can help reduce head ache pain. Analgesics work by lessening inflammation. They can be purchased over the counter in forms like aspirin, naproxen sodium, acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Or a doctor can prescribe prescription strength indomethacin, ketorolac or naproxen.
Tranquilizers
The Discovery Health website explains that tranquilizers are sometimes prescribed to treat chronic head aches. However, tranquilizers are not a permanent remedy. Because they are extremely addictive, they can only be taken for short periods of time. In addition, a doctor must closely monitor your use.
Combination Treatments
Combination medicines can be used to remedy a head ache. These types of medications combine several effective ingredients like acetaminophen and aspirin or even acetaminophen and a sedative or caffeine. The Mayo Clinic says that many of these types of medications can be found over-the-counter. However, because of its addictive nature, a prescription must be obtained for any medications containing a sedative-analgesic combo.
Antidepressants
Serious tension and chronic head aches that cannot be controlled by over-the-counter options can be treated by antidepressants. The Discovery Health website states that tricyclics and other antidepressants help to prevent tension head aches while treating any underlying cause. Antidepressants are effective against both chronic and episodic headaches. However, the Mayo Clinic warns that they may have unpleasant side effects like weight gain, dry mouth and sleepiness.
Oxygen
The University of California, San Francisco states that pure oxygen can be used to treat severe head aches. A study conducted in 2009 published in the Journal of the American Medical Association revealed that cluster headaches can be remedied after breathing fifteen minutes of pure oxygen via a face mask. In this study, 78 percent of patients found head ache relief. Oxygen is a safe pain relieving method. Unlike medicine, it does not have any adverse side effects.
