Headache lasting three days: what to do

A prolonged headache can follow a migraine, muscle tension, poor sleep, eye strain, skipped meals, dehydration, or an infection such as a cold or sinus illness. Medication overuse can also keep a headache going when pain medicines are taken repeatedly. The duration alone cannot reveal the cause.

Record whether pain is throbbing or pressure-like, where it is located, and whether movement, light, nausea, fever, congestion, or neck discomfort changes it. These details help a clinician distinguish common headache patterns from problems needing urgent investigation.

Drink fluids, eat regular food, take breaks from screens, and rest in a quiet space. Gentle neck and shoulder relaxation may help pressure-type pain. Keep a simple diary of the time, severity, symptoms, sleep, meals, fluids, and every medicine taken.

Use only a pain reliever that is suitable for you and follow its label. Ask a pharmacist before taking it if you have kidney or liver disease, stomach ulcers, are pregnant, or use other medicines. Do not keep increasing doses because the headache persists.

Seek emergency care for a sudden severe headache, confusion, fainting, seizure, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, vision loss, fever with a stiff neck, or headache after a significant head injury. Arrange prompt medical review if the pain is worsening, unlike previous headaches, associated with persistent vomiting, or not improving after three days.

What headache pattern does this resemble? Could congestion, dehydration, sleep, vision, or medicine use be contributing? What is a safe treatment plan, and when should I return if the pain continues?