Rebound headache is a type of chronic headache that can result from
overuse of pain medications. This is often a problem for people who have
frequent, severe headaches.
A rebound headache occurs once pain medication has worn off,
prompting a person to take another dose. This can lead to a cycle of more
frequent headaches and taking higher doses of medication more often until a
person builds up a tolerance. Eventually a headache results whenever the
medication is stopped. At that point, the person cannot stop taking the pain
relievers without having a headache.
Treating rebound headache can be difficult. To break the cycle,
medication may be needed that helps prevent headaches, and the person needs to
avoid pain medication when headaches occur. Gradually, headaches may become
less frequent and less severe.
