Should I wait to see if my headache worsens before taking pain killers? Do we reach for drugs too quickly?

Question

* I don't suffer from headaches regularly
* I am keen to avoid unecessary pain killers or drugs.

Answer 1

Its always better to go without pain killers when possible, or take a low dose because there are many negative side effects on the rest of your body--namely your liver. When I get a headache (which is almost daily), it can quickly become a migraine. My dr has instructed me to take my medication at the first sign of headache. since you don't get them often, you may be able to go without medication. If you are able to funtion normally, I would say not to take anything yet.

Once when my grandmother was in the hospital I heard an analagy that was kind of funny regarding the subject: It is easier to calm down a child who has just started acting up than it is to let them get completely out of control then try calm them down.

Answer 2

On the other hand I never had a headache before and my old father who is now no more used to say that I don't have a head to use or don't use my head. Maybe he was right.
In my opinion, it is better to avoid medicine for headache as long as possible, easier said than done. You can read it from the reason why most head ache tablets are banned.It is not advisable they say for prolonged use.
As an alternative, relax, meditate, take deep breath, wash the face with lukewarm water, drink warm fluids (including coffee/tea that stimulate and widen the blood vessels temporarily at least) before it becomes severe when you have to consult a doctor.

Answer 3

Be a man and take it. Your ancestors didn't have drugs, and look at the kind of pain that they must have endured (Imagine being shot by a bullet, and then getting your leg cut off with a bone saw by a surgeon in the Civil War with no drugs besides whiskey to kill the pain)..

Answer 4

Yes, that's how I am to. The only time I'll take anything for a headache is if it lasts more than a whole day, or if it becomes so bad that I can't do anything but lay around.

Answer 5

Personally i feel we as a society reach for any type of pill too quickly, antidepressant, painkillers, diet pills, etc. But for headaches the quicker you take Advil the quicker it goes away, i am blessed with migraines and i find that taking Advil and going to sleep works best, i used to take imitrex it worked within 20 minutes after laying down and taking it but i became immune after several years. Advil can screw you up if taken daily but since you aren't quick to pop pills, i would recommend Advil/ibuprofen,Tylenol,Aleeve, as quick as possible to relieve the pain.

Answer 6

Great question! Have you tried any of the natural remedies?

* Try rubbing lavender oil on your temples
* Have a glass of water (not too cold)
* Have a rest (if you can) or get an early night
* Listen to soothing, gentle music
* Massage your temple

Answer 7

go without unless it too bad