Will aspirin work for headaches?

Despite the misconceptions about aspirin it does have legitimate uses for treating headaches. There are a variety of things that you can do to try to manage your headaches without medication, but these methods are not always effective, and sometimes they can make your condition worse. If you are trying to limit or stop using aspirin for your headache, talk to your doctor first about your options.

How does aspirin work for headache?

The active ingredient in aspirin is a chemical called ASA (acetylsalicylic acid). Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties are responsible for the relief of headache pain. ASA works by blocking cyclooxygenase, an enzyme responsible for the production of prostaglandins. As a result, the sensitivity of pain receptors is reduced.

Will medicine aspirin work for headaches?

There are two main types of headaches that can be treated with aspirin: tension headaches and migraines. Aspirin works by creating pain relief in the brain and has no effect on other areas of the body or mind. It can be taken by itself or in combination with other medications, although it’s not always necessary.

Will taking aspirin for headaches help?

There is no strong evidence that aspirin works for tension headaches. In fact, taking aspirin can actually increase tension headache symptoms. It can also cause nausea and vomiting, which are symptoms of tension headaches. You can take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to reduce fever, swelling, and pain if your headache is caused by an infection. However, NSAIDs have been shown to increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Will aspirin work for migraine?

About 30% to 50% of people who get migraines respond well to aspirin, especially those who suffer from mild to moderate migraines. Aspirin is most effective for treating migraines that occur without any warning symptoms, meaning the headache appears suddenly with no previous auras or warning signs. While aspirin can be used to prevent migraines, it usually does not work as well as over-the-counter medications that are used for their quick relief.