Bad headache while pregnant: what to know

Pregnancy can change sleep, fluid needs, posture and sensitivity to light or smells. A blocked nose, viral illness, heat exposure, anxiety or missed meals may produce head pain. A headache can also accompany high blood pressure in pregnancy, especially when it is new, severe, persistent or unlike your usual headaches. The symptom alone cannot identify the cause.

Notice when it began, where it hurts, whether it pulses or presses, and whether movement, light or sound changes it. Record associated symptoms such as visual disturbance, swelling, fever, vomiting or pain below the ribs.

Rest in a quiet, cool room and sip water regularly. Eat a small meal if you have gone without food, and reduce screen brightness or strong smells. Do not start, stop or combine pain medicines without checking with your maternity clinician or pharmacist, because pregnancy changes which medicines are suitable. Arrange a same-day blood-pressure check if the headache is new, strong or not settling.

Seek urgent medical care for a sudden explosive headache, fainting, confusion, weakness, trouble speaking, a seizure, stiff neck, high fever, repeated vomiting or new vision changes. Contact your maternity unit promptly for a severe or ongoing headache, facial or hand swelling, pain under the ribs, or reduced fetal movement. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or have neurological symptoms.

Ask which pain relief is appropriate for your stage of pregnancy, whether your blood pressure and urine need checking, and which symptoms should prompt a return call. Mention any history of migraine, recent illness, heat exposure, reduced fluids or new medicines.