Fever, chills and headache

A cold, COVID-19, or sinus inflammation may combine headache with upper-airway symptoms. Allergic rhinitis can cause congestion and facial pressure but does not usually explain a true fever. Dehydration may bring headache, thirst, dizziness, and dark urine. Heat exhaustion can follow prolonged heat or exertion. Dengue fever should be considered after mosquito exposure in a relevant area, especially with marked aches or rash. Anxiety can intensify headache sensations, but a new fever should not be attributed to anxiety without assessment.

Rest in a cool, quiet place and sip fluids regularly. Record the temperature, headache onset, recent heat exposure, travel, congestion, rash, vomiting, and medicines taken. Avoid strenuous activity and alcohol. Use a pain or fever medicine only if it is suitable for you and exactly as directed; ask a pharmacist or clinician if you have chronic disease, are pregnant, or take other medicines.

Get emergency help for a sudden severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, fainting, seizure, weakness on one side, trouble speaking, or difficulty breathing. Seek urgent review for repeated vomiting, a new rash with fever, severe eye pain, inability to drink, very little urine, or symptoms after significant heat exposure. A headache that is steadily worsening also deserves medical assessment.

Ask whether you need an examination or testing, how to replace fluids safely, which medicine fits your history, and what change should prompt immediate reassessment.