Post by : Saif Rahman

Pain relief medications can provide immediate comfort for headaches, but a neurologist trained at AIIMS is cautioning against frequent use, indicating it may lead to more harm than good. Dr. Rahul Chawla, a neurologist from AIIMS New Delhi and a consultant at IBS Hospital in Lajpat Nagar, advises anyone using painkillers for over 10–15 days each month to seek immediate medical advice.

Dr. Chawla shared his insights on Instagram on November 15, highlighting that many individuals reach for pain relief options like Dolo at the first sign of discomfort without exploring the underlying causes of their headaches. This action can result in a troubling cycle where the medication intended to alleviate pain ultimately exacerbates the issue.

According to Dr. Chawla, frequent painkiller consumption can lead the brain to adapt to the substance, fostering dependency. This ultimately necessitates higher doses for the individual to achieve the same sense of normalcy. This cycle can result in medication overuse headaches, wherein the headaches become more intense and frequent, fueled by the very pills meant to alleviate them.

In his outpatient department, Dr. Chawla observes many patients who resort to daily painkiller use for extended periods. Some hesitate to consult neurologists, others switch between multiple doctors, while many follow unverified online advice, thereby neglecting to receive an accurate diagnosis or effective treatment.

He points out that while frequent conditions such as tension headaches or migraines are common, others suffer from rarer ailments like idiopathic intracranial hypertension or central nervous system vasculitis. Timely medical intervention can lead to effective management of these conditions, yet patients often avoid evaluations due to apprehensions about long-term medication, exacerbating their health issues.

Dr. Chawla emphasizes that prolonged painkiller use poses risks to liver and kidney health, noting that excessive paracetamol is among the leading causes of drug-induced liver injury. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can contribute to kidney issues, ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and high blood pressure. Persistent use heightens the brain's sensitivity to pain, resulting in recurring headaches.

Continual painkiller use can amplify stimulation within the brain’s pain pathways, lowering pain tolerability. Once the medication's effects diminish, rebound headaches can occur, prompting the individual to consume more pills, creating a vicious cycle.

Dr. Chawla reveals that about 20–30 percent of patients with chronic headaches in neurology clinics are affected by this form of overuse headache. The positive aspect is that it can be reversed with appropriate cessation of medication and adherence to a structured treatment regimen under professional guidance.

He urges individuals to recognize the nature of their headaches rather than treating them indiscriminately. Consulting with a neurologist, conducting appropriate tests, and following a systematic treatment plan can lead to effective management of the real pain sources. Such strategies safeguard both mental and physical health.

His core message is clear: if your painkiller usage exceeds 10–15 days a month, take action immediately. Seek professional assistance to uncover the underlying causes. Your pathway to better health starts with informed guidance instead of repeated self-medication.

#Health #Wellness