Not Every Headache Needs Panado

by Saviour Simulindi

You wake up with a headache, and before you even stop to think about what might be causing it, you reach for Panado.

For many Zambians, this has become a common response. Headache? Panado. Body pains? Panado. Feeling unwell? Panado.

Panado contains paracetamol, a medicine used to relieve pain and reduce fever when taken correctly. However, because it is readily available, it can be easy to take it whenever discomfort strikes without considering what might be causing the problem.

Sometimes, a headache may be linked to dehydration, lack of sleep, skipped meals, stress or spending long hours looking at a phone or computer screen.

However, recurring headaches can also be associated with migraines, infections, vision problems and other medical conditions that may require professional attention.

The concern is not simply taking Panado when you have a headache. It is repeatedly relying on painkillers without understanding why the pain keeps returning.

Taking too much paracetamol can cause serious liver damage. You may also accidentally exceed the recommended dose if you take Panado alongside other medicines for colds, flu or pain that contain the same ingredient.

Before reaching for a painkiller, take a moment to consider your symptoms and what might be contributing to the headache. Have you had enough water? Did you get enough sleep? Have you eaten properly? Have you been under stress? And have these headaches been happening more frequently?

If your headaches keep returning, become more frequent or interfere with your daily activities, consult a healthcare professional rather than relying on painkillers each time.

Seek urgent medical attention if a headache comes on suddenly and is extremely severe, or occurs with symptoms such as weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking, loss of vision, fever with a stiff neck or following a significant head injury.

Panado is not the enemy. The problem is using it incorrectly or overlooking a condition that may need medical attention.

The goal is not only to relieve the pain. It is also to understand what may be causing it.

DISCLAIMER: This article is intended for general health awareness and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance. Do not exceed the recommended dose of paracetamol or combine medicines containing it without checking with a healthcare professional or pharmacist.