Acute Headache
Headaches - Acetaminophen


Acetaminophen and aspirin have some properties that are alike and others that differ. Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is an analgesic. Aspirin is also an analgesic, pain reliever. Both aspirin and acetaminophen have been used in the treatment of headaches since the 19th century.

Aspirin works by interfering with the action of a type of natural hormone called prostaglandins. These biochemicals come into play during inflammation, such as occurs during injury. Hit your thumb with a hammer and the swelling starts. Prostaglandins stimulate signals through nerve cells that we perceive as pain, and stimulate the swelling. That swelling is the body's reaction to increase blood supply and surround damaged tissue.

But acetaminophen is not an NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) like aspirin or ibuprofen. Consequently, it does not reduce pain from conditions caused by inflammation, as aspirin will. Yet, unlike ibuprofen, it's safe to use during all stages of pregnancy. Ibuprofen is particularly to be avoided in the third trimester.

Acetaminophen has another advantage over aspirin in some cases. In certain diseases, such as Reye's syndrome, acetaminophen can be taken safely. Aspirin is unsafe for those afflicted. It also has many fewer side effects for a wide variety of people.

At proper dosages, acetaminophen doesn't irritate the stomach lining as aspirin can. It also does not carry the same risk of kidney damage as its pharmacological cousin. Aspirin thins the blood, which accounts in part for its use as a heart attack preventative. But clotting can be useful if one is subject to nose bleeds or gets cut. Acetaminophen does not interfere with clotting.

The reasons lie in the similarities and differences between the two closely related compounds. Aspirin interferes with prostaglandin production by inhibiting an enzyme called COX. Though acetaminophens don't reduce those inflammation hormones, it does, paradoxically, inhibit the COX enzymes used to produce them.

On the other hand, there is some risk associated with acetaminophen when taken at improperly high dosages. Daily use can lead to so-called rebound headaches, and at high enough dosages can cause liver damage and even death. Such risks are low, but are increased by, for example, taking it in conjunction with alcohol.

Some more common side effects to watch out for include bloody or black, tarry stools, skin rash and sore throat (not present before beginning treatment). In rare cases, lip ulcers or white spots in the mouth have been reported.

Acetaminophen is a drug and you should always follow the directions and safety instructions. It is usually thought to be safe to take with other over-the-counter pain control medicines. Excedrin for example combines acetaminophen, caffeine, and aspirin. You must always remember to follow label instructions and consult a doctor if you experience a lingering fever or headache.

In addition, studies have shown a connection between contraceptive pills and migraines.

some hobbies are incompatible with blindness

Bitter Girl posted a photo:

since my last pregnancy a few years ago, i have been suffering from frequent migranes. i started taking blood pressure meds last year and that has helped significantly. my headaches are much less frequent, but when i do get them, they are very intense. they start with a flashing light in my left eye that intensifies until 80% of my vision is occluded. then i get a pain down my right jaw, much like a toothache. after that comes a pain on the right side of my head like i'm being stabbed. then the pain diminishes in intensity and spreads through my entire head. i sometimes have nausea and light and sound sensitivity, but not always. these headaches last for 3 to 6 days. i used to spend about half the month in this condition.

so about a year ago, when i began having reproducable pain and tenderness behind my eyes, i just figured it was part of the whole migrane drama. however, about 3 weeks ago i noticed a change in my vision. i'm having a lot of trouble seeing. since until now, my vision has been a stupendous 20/15, i'm really concerned. a few days ago i started reading about this pain i have and found out it is called optic neuritis. apparently, most everyone experiences it as some point during their life due to a virus. but when it lasts more than 2 or 3 weeks, it can cause permanent damage. all i can say is EEK! i can't believe i've let this go on for so long.

i'm not one to complain about aches and pains and i often let things get out of control before i see the doc. the last time it almost killed me. i ended up being heliported to Camden and had to be on a ventilator for over a week. i've got to get to the eye doctor pronto. it would be just my luck if i went blind right after i finally got an awesome camera.