Body Care

Rebound Headaches

Updated: Apr 14, 2026 Published: Jul 27, 2022 Medical Team 2 min read

     Rebound headaches are caused by frequent use of headache medication. While pain relievers offer relief for headaches, taking several of them a week may trigger rebound headaches. To avoid rebound headaches, reduce or stop taking the pain medication.

    • Rebound headaches tend to occur every day, often waking you up early morning.

    • Rebound headaches improve with medication but return when the medication wears off and persist throughout the day.

    While occasional headaches are common, some types of headaches can be life-threatening. Seek immediate medical care if the headache is: sudden and severe; Is accompanied by a fever, stiff neck, rash, confusion, seizure, double vision, or weakness, and gets worse despite rest and medication and wakes you up from sleep.

    Tips to avoid rebound headaches

    • Consult a doctor on how much medication you can take.

    • Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day – even on weekends.

    • Don’t skip meals; start the day with a healthy breakfast and have lunch and dinner at the same time every day.

    • Reduce stress; get your schedule organized and stay positive.

    • Relax. Try yoga, meditation, or relaxation exercises. Set aside time to listen to music, read books, or take a hot bath.

    • Avoid smoking.

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