What can I try besides pain relievers for constant headache

Posted by heminhaw @heminhaw, 2 days ago

I was sick a few months ago with something viral or maybe bacterial (my Dr couldn’t tell) but it was like the flu. Whatever that illness was it has left me with a constant debilitating headache, I can’t sleep at all some nights. I can’t take pain relievers anymore because they don’t work and I took them for so long I need to wean off of them. While my doctors try diff meds what recommendations does the group have for other interventions? It’s such quality of life issue.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Headache & Migraine Support Group.

Are you seeing an ears nose and throat dr. They could do an in office CT scan of your sinuses. Even when you can breath easily, the sinuses in your head can fail to drain, causing pressure headaches. You might first try pseudoephedrine hydrochloride. It is over the counter but you have to ask the pharmacist. It can increase heartrate, so make sure it's alright with your heart. I use the 4 hour. The dose is two little red pills, but start with one. It shrinks the narrow passages between sinuses and allows congestion to drain.

REPLY

You might want to investigate the Mayo Clinic PRC program for chronic pain. It is a three week intensive program. There are several discussuons on Mayo Connect. Also, very helpful to go to the Mayo Clinic website and read about the program.

REPLY

@heminhaw
My teen son was told by his neurologist to take magnesium and omega 3 supplements for migraines with aura. This has helped. You can also drink water with electrolytes like LMNT brand to ensure well hydrated. My son has a heart defect and POTS and the electrolytes help ensure water is retained to help regulate blood pressure. If dehydrated, this can cause headaches.

Another option is to take probiotics because there is a connection of gut and brain health.

REPLY

I use essential oils. Peppermint, Lavender or Chamomile depending on what kind of headache I have. I bought my own roller bottles, and I mix with a transfer oil of coconut oil or Almond oil.
I have them placed near my bed near my couch and in my car if needed.
I just roll it on the nap of my neck.
I also use a coffee bean bag that I can heat and place on the back of my neck.
Also, magnesium is good. I like eating pumpkin seeds and they are a good source for me.

REPLY

I’ve had migraines I’ve been dealing with for last 2yrs+ and have tried everything, and nothing worked. I finally found that Vyepti infusion works although I had a slight reaction to it, I will pre-medicate next time. I also take topiramate 100mg every night and I have another breakthrough medication but since the infusion I haven’t had a ‘headache’ and I’m still in shock I think! It’s been along time with no pain in my head. I hope this information helps you, again I have tried all sorts and they failed to get me the infusion but maybe ask about Emgality. I just kept up with my drs and didn’t let it be unknown how much pain I was in. It is no way to live and there are solutions! Good luck🙂

REPLY

You need to see a neurologist who specializes in headaches. Where do you live?

REPLY
Please sign in or register to post a reply.