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Is Advil Advisable For Frequent Migraine Headaches?
Question: Hello, I have been having brief sharp pains in the top of the right side of my head for about 3 days. They are intermittent, but today, they are occurring more frequently. I have a mild headache. I do have a history of migraine headaches, but this was when I was in my 20's. Am currently age 59. Should I try some advil, how concerned should I be? Thanks
Brief Answer:
Can try Advil, no major concern.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
In terms of that type of pain being indicative of a threatening issue I do not think you should be much concerned. That type of pain is not typical for brain lesions where the pain is more persistent and more wide spread.
While it doesn't fit the description of migraine either migraine patients are more prone to having other types of primary headaches (primary meaning without and identifiable cause). Other types of headache may include tension type headache or ice pick headache (primary stabbing headache). This last one would fit the description you provide but tension type headache is also associated at times with muscle spasms.
Another possibility might also be that of occipital neuralgia, pain due to compression of the occipital nerve in the upper neck levels.
As for trying Advil, yes, that would be an appropriate first step in management in any of those cases so you should try it.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Can try Advil, no major concern.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
In terms of that type of pain being indicative of a threatening issue I do not think you should be much concerned. That type of pain is not typical for brain lesions where the pain is more persistent and more wide spread.
While it doesn't fit the description of migraine either migraine patients are more prone to having other types of primary headaches (primary meaning without and identifiable cause). Other types of headache may include tension type headache or ice pick headache (primary stabbing headache). This last one would fit the description you provide but tension type headache is also associated at times with muscle spasms.
Another possibility might also be that of occipital neuralgia, pain due to compression of the occipital nerve in the upper neck levels.
As for trying Advil, yes, that would be an appropriate first step in management in any of those cases so you should try it.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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