Icepick (or stabbing) Headache

[pauline38]

I frequently get migraines but have had a four "icepick headaches" in my life -- two of which were recent and completely unbearable. I took motrin and then vicodin and it did practically nothing for the pain. I read that a drug called Indomethacin helps with this kind of pain. Does anyone know anything about this drug for pain like this? Also, does anyone else suffer from this type of headache or is it really uncommon? My internist acted like I was crazy and should go to the e.r. because she had never heard of a headache like this -- intermittent throughout the day and like someone was hitting me with an icepick on the side of my head. I am seeing a neurologist in a few weeks but do any of you have any suggestions? Thanks!!!!

[mystiq86]

Yeah, I have those type of headaches practically on a daily basis. It is pretty unbearable, however, I've found that relpax helps somewhat. Soma taken with aleve helps take the edge off the pain. I'd never wish this type of pain on anyone. I hope I was of some assistance. I also hope you find the answers you are looking for.

[Bell99]

Sounds like a migraine! I get them too. As soon as I said the words Ice Pick to my Neurologist he knew it was migraine. My "ice pick" is always behind one eye and often stabs into a ear. Oh I have suffered for years over these.
I take Amerge 2.5 which really helps. Also rubbing bengay on temples or putting bags of ice on temples helps so much.
I went off Birth Control Pills about 8 months ago. My migraines went from monthly to just now and again.

[pauline38]

Thanks, I will look into the Amerge. Can I ask what kind of birth control pills you were on because I read that the monophasic pills help with hormonal migraines.

[zip2play]

Sounds more like a cluster headache to me but the overwhelming number of cases are male. The pain is like a migraine amplified to the point of flying rage.
A good diagnostic determinant is a migraine needs peace, quiet and dark.
A cluster causes you to run around and try to keep from banging your head against a wall.

Try Inderal (propranolol) or another prescription beta-blocker.

I get relief from ergotamine but since it's an abortifacient it's not a great drug for women.
Other tries might be Sansert (methysergide) but it feels a lot like mescaline...well, so does the ergot actually.

There are newer inhaled drugs that I'm not up on (like Imitrex)...

Get something prescribed, no need to suffer.
The NSAID analgesics (including aspirin, motrin, and even prescription indomethacin) are really of very little use with these vascular headaches. There is nothing sold over the counter that's remotely effective for migraine/cluster control.

ps....Look for food triggers; they are usually present. (My 100% trigger is combining alcohol with Dark Chocolate....DEADLY!)