Emotional stress is one of the most common triggers of migraines and tension headaches (stress headaches). Migraine sufferers are generally found to be more emotional and highly effected by stressful events. During stressful events, certain chemicals in the brain are released to combat the situation (know as the "flight or fight" response). The release of these chemicals can provoke blood vessel changes that can cause migraine headaches.

Stress is also an important factor in tension headaches. Tension headaches can either be episodic or chronic. Episodic tension headache is usually triggered by an isolated stressful situation or a build-up of stress; it can generally be treated by over-the-counter pain relievers. Daily stress, such as from a high-pressured job, can lead to chronic tension headaches. Treatment for chronic tension headaches usually involves stress management, counseling, biofeedback, and possibly the use of antidepressant or anxiety reducing medications.

Reviewed by Department of Neurology, Department of Pediatric Neurology, The Cleveland Clinic.

WebMD Medical Reference provided in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic

Reviewed by Jonathan L Gelfand, MD on January 23, 2008

Edited by Lily Jung, MD on December 01, 2006

'Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2004

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Learn How TOPAMAX Can Help from Patients Who Have Been There

Important Safety Information | Prescribing Information

TOPAMAX is approved for migraine prevention in adults only.
TOPAMAX is not used to stop a migraine after it starts.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Serious risks associated with TOPAMAX include lowered bicarbonate levels in the blood resulting in an increase in the acidity of the blood (metabolic acidosis). Symptoms could include hyperventilation (rapid, deep breathing), tiredness, loss of appetite, irregular heartbeat or changes in the level of alertness. Call your doctor immediately if you get these symptoms. Your doctor may want to do simple blood tests. Chronic, untreated metabolic acidosis may increase the risk for kidney stones or bone disease.

Other serious risks include decreased sweating, increased body temperature, kidney stones, sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and increased eye pressure (glaucoma). Call your doctor immediately if you have any decrease in vision or eye pain. These problems can lead to blindness if not treated right away.

More common side effects are tingling in arms and legs, loss of appetite, tiredness, nausea, diarrhea, taste change and weight loss.

Tell your doctor about other medications you take. Please see full U.S. Prescribing Information.

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