Headache advice

[Yaz91]

Hey guys!

I’m just wondering if anyone has any tips for this headache that I can’t shift. Taking all the usual meds but it’s been constant for the last week and a half! I have light sensitivity so wearing sunglasses pretty much everywhere which has previously worked but not this time. Got a couple of weeks before I see the specialist so any recommendations would be greatly appreciated, willing to try anything at this stage!!

Thank you 🙂

[LupieHel]

migraine?

[Kath1]

I find wearing a wooly hat or wearing an eye mask (if seeing isn't needed) helps due to the light pressure the hat/band puts around the head. I believe you can even buy headache bands but I find a wooly hat does help give a little relief.

[sarahalice]

My pain management nurse suggested soluble paracetamol over normal. But it doesn't always help.

[dg70]

Paracetamol and codeine only thing that shifts it for me. If codeine works you can get it on prescription. Hopefully you've seen an optician in case there's an eyesight issue? I would see a gp if it doesn't go.

[solo99]

It really depends on the type of headache. The type and the causes are so varied. I usually use an ice pack under the back of my neck while lying down. White tiger balm to cool my forehead, I also use this on the back of my neck and shoulders when I need to. Lastly a migraine cool cap that I keep in the freezer.

You can get the cool cap from boots and numerous other retailers. Surprisingly comfortable, perfect when going to bed as it also serves as an eye mask.

I only know from my own experience that it is possible to get a painkiller headache so it might be worth trying something that doesn't contain the usual painkillers.

I hope you find some relief soon. Migraine and headache are a regular feature for me, I wish there was an easy solution, headaches are so debilitating.

[StriatedCaracara]

My headache and migraine symptoms can be part of my flares. GP asked me to contact rheumy so could review meds. When I started taking Mepacrine in addition to Hydroxychloroquine my worst headaches stopped. Now they don't go on for days anymore.

So it is not just about painkillers asmore may be happening for us than other people. Sometimes other symptoms followed soon after, so they also were a warning to me. My eyes generally got photophobic at the same time.

IMPORTANT

Also if it is tender scalp, affecting temple one needs to get help asap as could be GCA which can cause sight loss.

[BrigidsFire]

My GP recommended aspirin at 900mg 4 times a day for up to 3 or 4 days for lupus related headaches (including migraine) and lupus related joint pain. My rheumatologist backed this up. Apparently there has been research into this and it’s been proven to work. It mostly does the trick for me.

Perhaps check with a doctor or pharmacist first as you can’t take aspirin if you’re pregnant or on blood thinners, for example, and possibly in other situations. But might be worth a go.

[poseymint]

I quit all caffeine as advised by me neurologist, that helped my migraines. I rarely get them if I keep to careful diet and no caffeine. Also I have used Cool patches. They are a gel patch that clings to the forehead- I think they are from Japan. I get them on Amazon.