Going in circles with rebound headaches
For years I've been suffering with rebound headaches from overuse of Excedrin to treat impending migraines. I only realized what my problem was when I went to a neurologist/headache specialist. Once I told him how the headaches woke me every day early in the morning around the same time and taking excedrin would relieve them he put me on a dose of steroids and told me to throw away my excedrin. So I felt great for awhile but then the frequent headaches returned in spite of taking a daily amitryptiline plus magnesium and riboflavin supplements as directed by my neuro. I can't take imitrex more than 2x per week and needing to function I went back to the excedrin. So I'm caught in a vicious cycle of rebound headaches. I know I can go back to my doc and break the cycle with steroids but then what do I do when the frequent headaches return? I've tried ice packs, heat packs, live a healthy lifestyle, am fit in every way other than my head. I keep a headache diary and can discern no pattern or trigger. I'm at my wits end and am getting so depressed. I have a wonderful life with a caring, supportive husband, family and friends but can't get beyond this constant pain cycle. Has anyone succeeded in kicking rebound headaches long term? Thanks for any help you can provide.
Join the conversation