On the rebound
Chronic tension headache and migraine sufferers alike sufferers know the paradox of the rebound headache - you take an analgesic to relieve your pain, only to get an even worse brain-crusher when the pills wear off. Just about any common over the counter remedy, including Tylenol and Advil (or ibuprofen) can cause this problem. In fact, Tylenol is one of the worst offenders. Often it becomes a vicious cycle that doesn't really address the underlying problem and adds serious side effects to the mix. For example, Tylenol, which can be highly toxic to the liver in relatively low doses, also lowers effective amounts of a very important antioxidant in the body. Think of it as "aging in a bottle" when used regularly.
Now new research confirms what many doctors have been saying for years - exercise, relaxation techniques and acupuncture can relieve tension headache pain effectively without the rebound or other side effects.
Researchers in Sweden recruited 90 patients who had suffered with chronic tension headaches for an average of seven years. None of the participants were allowed to take pain medication during the study. They were randomly divided into three groups: one group had weekly 30-minute acupuncture sessions for 10 to 12 weeks; the second regularly did cycling, stretching and repeated neck and shoulder exercises; and the third were taught relaxation and stress coping strategies like focused breathing.
All three groups showed improvements in headache intensity and number of headache-free periods. While none of the subjects did all three interventions, the authors suggest that incorporating all three into your life might deliver the best results of all.
I'd agree, and I'd add another. Sugar, artificial sweeteners, and caffeine are common headache triggers - many people find complete relief with this one simple change. Alcohol, aged cheeses, chocolate, dairy products, citrus fruits, and eggs can also cause problems. Whether your headaches are the tension type or migraines -- whatever your doctor tells you -- changing your diet can only help.
