Medication-overuse headache: symptoms, causes and which doctor to see

For medication-overuse headache you can first see: Neurology. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.

Common symptoms: a headache almost every day; pain that starts on waking in the morning; pain that returns when the painkiller wears off; using painkillers on more than 10–15 days a month. Symptoms vary from person to person; a doctor’s examination is needed for a diagnosis.

The most common causes: taking painkillers on more than 10–15 days a month; combination painkillers and medicines containing caffeine; a tendency to migraine and tension-type headache. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.

After medicines are reduced under a doctor’s supervision, headache frequency usually falls markedly within 2–3 months.

It is more common in: people with migraine; people with chronic tension-type headache; people with anxiety and depression.

It is diagnosed with a headache and medicine diary; other causes are ruled out.

Limiting the number of days you take painkillers, and seeing a doctor for preventive treatment when headaches are frequent.

When taken often, yes; they can lead to medication-overuse headache.

Generally it is recommended not to exceed 10 days a month; the exact limit depends on the medicine.

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is there a sudden, very severe headache or one that has changed in character?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”

See a doctor: you take painkillers on more than 10 days a month.