Best Over The Counter Medicine For Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are a common type of headache that can cause mild to moderate pain in your head, neck, and shoulders. They are often caused by stress, anxiety, or tension in your muscles. While there are prescription medications available to treat tension headaches, there are also many over-the-counter (OTC) options that can provide relief. In this article, we will discuss the best OTC medicine for tension headaches.
1. Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is a pain reliever that is often used to treat tension headaches. It works by reducing the pain signals that are sent to your brain. Acetaminophen is available in many OTC pain relievers, such as Tylenol, and can be taken every 4-6 hours as needed. It is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label, as taking too much acetaminophen can cause liver damage.
2. Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is another pain reliever that can be used to treat tension headaches. It works by reducing inflammation in your body, which can help to relieve pain. Ibuprofen is available in many OTC pain relievers, such as Advil and Motrin, and can be taken every 4-6 hours as needed. It is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label, as taking too much ibuprofen can cause stomach ulcers and other side effects.
3. Aspirin
Aspirin is a pain reliever that can also be used to treat tension headaches. It works by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals in your body. Aspirin is available in many OTC pain relievers, such as Bayer, and can be taken every 4-6 hours as needed. It is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label, as taking too much aspirin can cause stomach ulcers and other side effects.
4. Combination Medications
Combination medications are OTC pain relievers that contain a combination of different ingredients, such as acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine. These medications can be effective in treating tension headaches, as they work in different ways to relieve pain. Combination medications are available in many brands, such as Excedrin, and can be taken every 4-6 hours as needed. It is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label, as taking too much of any of the ingredients can cause side effects.
5. Muscle Relaxants
Muscle relaxants are OTC medications that can help to relieve tension in your muscles, which can cause tension headaches. These medications are available in many brands, such as Soma and Robaxin, and can be taken every 4-6 hours as needed. It is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label, as taking too much muscle relaxants can cause drowsiness and other side effects.
Conclusion
Tension headaches can be a real pain, but there are many OTC medications available that can help to relieve your symptoms. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin, combination medications, and muscle relaxants are all effective options, but it is important to follow the recommended dosage on the label and talk to your doctor before taking any new medication. With the right treatment, you can find relief from your tension headaches and get back to feeling like yourself again.