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Almost everyone gets an occasional headache. Some can be quite uncomfortable, but most are only temporary. In fact, headaches are one of the most frequent reasons that people see their doctors. An estimated 20 million Americans see a doctor each year for chronic headaches. Since most people never seek treatment for their headaches, this figure represents only about half of the number of people who get headaches.
When is a headache serious?
Not every headache needs treatment by a doctor. Some headaches are caused by skipped meals or muscle tension. They can be taken care of at home. Other headaches are signs of something more serious. In this case, see your doctor right away. If you experience any of the following, see your doctor:
- A severe, sudden headache that comes on quickly, at times described as "the worst headache of my life."
- A headache that causes loss of consciousness, confusion, changes in your vision or body weakness.
- Recurrent headaches in one particular area, such as the eye, ear, temple or back of the head.
- Recurrent headaches that get worse and last longer.
- Headaches along with a stiff neck and fever.
- Headaches that wake you from sleep.
- Headaches that start after an injury to the head.
- Changes in the nature of the headaches and how often you get them.
Be aware that herbs and supplements are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Do not assume if a product is considered "natural" that it is harmless. Many substances do not have sound science behind them to prove their safety or how well they work. Manufacturers may not be giving you what you think you are getting, or the way the substance is processed may be unhealthy or unsafe.
With many of these products, doctors do not know enough about them. Herbs and supplements may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications or can worsen your health conditions. Consider that some supplements, such as vitamin A, may be unsafe when taken in mega doses.
It is strongly advised that you talk to your doctor before taking any supplement or herb. If you are taking an herb or supplement and notice any unusual symptoms, stop taking the substance immediately and talk to your doctor.
| Herb |
Claim |
Possible Interactions, Side Effects and Dangers |
What the experts say |
| Feverfew |
Treats headaches, particularly migraines. |
Feverfew can interact with aspirin. If you have been taking this for a while and suddenly stop, you may get rebound headaches, anxiety, sleep problems or muscle stiffness.
Generally well tolerated. Side effects may include mouth inflammation or ulcers, swelling of the lips and loss of taste.
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Some research indicates that feverfew may prevent migraines or reduce the number of headaches. The attacks may be milder and you may have less nausea and vomiting. However, the duration of an attack does not seem to be affected. More research is needed before experts will recommend feverfew. Talk to your doctor first. There still isn't any research comparing feverfew with prescription medications. |
| 5-HTP |
Reduces severity and frequency of headaches. |
May interact with drugs such as carbidopa, fluoxetine, phenelzine, phenobarbital, trazodone, sumatriptan and pindolol. If you have muscle aches or fever, call your doctor immediately. You may have hallucinations if you take zolpidem (AmbienŽ) with 5-HTP.
Generally well tolerated. Side effects may include stomach discomfort, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn or gas.
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Some evidence suggests that 5-HTP may help reduce the severity and frequency of migraine and tension headaches. However, research to date suggests prescription medications work better. Talk to your doctor first. |
This article was reviewed and updated
June 2007.
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