Some of you may remember from many topics past my posts concerning my chronic headaches (going to be celebrating the one-year anniversary of the start of the pain in about two weeks
).
I have done research about headaches and the different types, and altohugh I have not had an official diagnosis, I have reached the conclusion that I have chronic tension-type headaches. They do not necessarily fit the description of tension headaches exactly. For example, although tension headaches are 'not usually' unilateral, I feel some tightness and pain in the right side of my face and none in the left side. Also, a good night's sleep does nothing for me - in fact, my headaches begin to worsen around nine at night while being fairly dull during daylight hours. I also have no other symptoms but the headaches - no nausea, no sensitivity to light/sound, no changes in appetite.
Other details about my headaches...they are exacerbated by excess caffeine and sugar, lack of sleep and massaging/rubbing the painful areas.
Those who suffer the pain of chronic tension headaches - how do you deal with your pain? Is it true that over-the-counter painkillers can help? I have pretty much stayed away from aspirin and acetometaphen because my headaches weren't bad enough to warrant pill-popping.
I do plan on calling my doctor tomorrow to talk to her about it, just to see what she has to say. She's the one who kept me sane by teaching me a simple mantra in terms of headaches. She said that, as long as I do not experience any of the following symptoms, then whatever is ailing me is most likely nothing to lose sleep over:
- nausea/vomiting
- vision/memory/coordination problems
- overall worsening pain
I would highly recommend trying this as an alternative treatment. But keep in MIND if you are already on SSRI treatment YOU CAN NOT USE 5htp. I also recommend magnesium. This In the Past also has helped significantly with my headaches. 
