Treatment of Stress Headaches |

Treatment of Stress Headaches

| By Lee Mayer | Category: Physical Effects of Stress

If a stress related headache has started then it is probably too late for a natural treatment. The only way of relieving ourselves from the intense pain is to resort to medication. Although some drug treatments to fight stress headaches may pose threats when used in the long term, the immediate priority is being relieved from the physical pain we are experiencing.

Stress Headache Treatment

There are various medical techniques that can cure stress and headaches. These can be anything from simple pain relief medication to, in severe cases, being admitted to hospital. The most common forms of treatment are:

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS): These are the most common over the counter drugs for headache. NSAIDs include Tylenol, Advil, Aleve and Aspirin. Be careful in taking these drugs as continued use may lead to further problems, such as gastro-intestinal bleeding and kidney damage. NSAIDs are meant to be used for immediate relief occasionally rather than prolonged use.

Serotonin Receptor Agonists or Triptans: These are also used to cure stress and headaches, especially migraine attacks. These drugs end in the suffix “triptan” and include Eletriptan, Sumatriptan, etc. These drugs work very effectively and side effects of these drug are rare.

Narcotic drugs are rarely used and only prescribed and administered in severe cases, for example a post-operative patient who needs pain relief and sedation. The use of narcotics should be regulated as it can be addictive and is very prone to abuse.

Steroids are the last option for the treatment of stress headaches. Steroids decrease the inflammation of the blood vessels responsible for headaches. However, use of this drug can compromise our immune system.

Medications should always be used wisely and safely, and with the advice of a healthcare professional. While these can provide short-term relief from stress and headaches, they can damage one’s health in the long run when misused and abused. Be sure to have regular checkups by your physician if you are prescribed medications so that any possible side effects can be identified and dealt with.
Treatment of Stress Headaches