I need help to manage headaches post stroke. Do you have any advice?

Hi Crocodiledavey,

Thanks for posting on EnableMe. It’s great that you reached out to us.

Headaches are common post stroke and can be caused by a range of issues.

These can include being due to:

• Clots or tearing of blood vessels in the brain due to your stroke.

• Medication

• Fatigue or stress

• Dehydration: The usual amount of fluid per day is 2 litres if not on fluid restrictions

• Withdrawal from alcohol or caffeine.

• Other musculoskeletal injuries such as neck pain.

It may be worth writing a diary noting when you feel fatigued, your fluid intake, caffeine, alcohol intake, what aggravates or eases the headaches.

I would suggest taking this information to your GP if you haven’t done so, to try to pinpoint the root cause of your headaches. As your headaches are chronic, you could try to seek a referral to specialists such as a neurologist with expertise in headaches. Let us know if you need help finding one in your area.

If you are still having trouble, perhaps talk to your GP about a multidisciplinary pain or headache clinic which may be beneficial. Other health professionals may also attend these clinics.

There are some pain medications that may be helpful, but talk to your doctor first before taking these, even if they can be purchased over the counter.

Here are some more resources that may be helpful- with further management strategies.

Pain after stroke factsheet

If you would like to discuss with us further, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at StrokeLine 1800 787 653 or email strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au. We are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEDST.

Kind regards,

Kath (StrokeLine)