Headache for three days: what to know

Headache may follow poor sleep, tension, prolonged screen use, missed meals, dehydration, or a change in caffeine. Congestion or facial pressure can accompany Allergic Rhinitis or Chronic Sinusitis. Fever and respiratory symptoms may occur with a Common Cold or COVID-19. Heat Exhaustion can cause headache with thirst, weakness, nausea, or dizziness.

Pain location and quality are useful clues, but they do not diagnose the cause. Note whether it is pressure or throbbing, one-sided or widespread, and whether light, sound, movement, coughing, or bending changes it.

Rest, drink fluids, eat a light regular meal, and reduce bright screens. Gentle shoulder and neck movement can help if muscles feel tight. Use a suitable over-the-counter medicine only as directed on its label, and check with a pharmacist or clinician if you have other conditions, take regular medicines, or might be pregnant.

Write down the timing, triggers, associated symptoms, and response to any treatment. If the pain remains tomorrow, returns often, or interferes with normal activity, arrange medical advice.

Get emergency help for a sudden severe headache, weakness, numbness, speech or vision problems, confusion, fainting, seizure, or a stiff neck with fever. Seek urgent assessment after a significant head injury, or for repeated vomiting, a rapidly worsening headache, or severe illness with dehydration.

What headache pattern does this resemble? Should I be checked for infection, dehydration, blood-pressure changes, eye strain, or medication effects? What symptoms mean I should seek urgent care rather than wait?