Do you suffer from frequent, debilitating headaches? Over-the-counter pain pills may be making them worse. Consider seeking more effective, longer-lasting relief at The GW Headache Clinic.

Headaches have many triggers, including hormonal fluctuations or stress. But many otherwise healthy people have a genetic predisposition that causes increased sensitivity to pain, according to Perry K. Richardson, MD, Director of the Headache Clinic.

Three Main Headache Types
Physicians at the Headache Clinic treat three main types of headaches, among others:

• Migraine headaches, the most common type they treat, are associated with increased sensitivity to light and sound and may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. They can cause constant, throbbing pain that may last anywhere from four to 72 hours.
• Tension-type headaches often involve soreness or stiffness in the head and neck. They can occur randomly and disappear quickly, or they can last several days.
• Cluster headaches come in groups of one to four headaches a day and can cause intense pain behind one eye that lasts from 45 to 90 minutes. They occur most often in men and may be accompanied by extreme restlessness.

A Customized Treatment Plan
Physicians at the Headache Clinic form a diagnosis and treatment plan that involves understanding the triggers behind patients' headaches, suggesting lifestyle changes and prescribing medications.

"We have migraine-specific medications that are much better than over-the-counter pills in relieving pain, and prophylactic medications, which patients take every day to reduce the frequency of attacks," Dr. Richardson says. The Headache Clinic is involved in a research trial to evaluate if botulinum toxin (Botox^®) injections may lessen the frequency and severity of migraines.

Taking over-the-counter headache medications more than twice a week may be a sign that you need professional help, Dr. Richardson says. "You might be causing medication overuse headaches," he says. "At the Headache Clinic, we offer more effective ways to minimize pain and maximize function."

Perry K. Richardson, MD, Director of the Headache Clinic

When Is a Headache an Emergency?
Perry K. Richardson, MD, Director of the Headache Clinic at GW says that most headaches, while often debilitating, do not signal an immediate emergency. However, the following symptoms are a warning sign to call 911 or head to the hospital:

• Sudden onset of severe, intense headache
• Headache accompanied by fever
• Headache accompanied by loss of limb function or vision
• Severe headache in people older than age 65 who are not prone to headaches
• Headaches in people with serious medical issues, such as cancer or HIV/AIDS

Are Headaches Hurting You?
Do not let headaches debilitate you. For more information on the Headache Clinic or the Department of Neurology, please call 202-741-2700.

900 23rd St., NW, Washington, DC 20037 (202) 715-4000