Headache for two days: what to know

Short-term headache can be linked with poor sleep, muscle tension, eye strain, missed meals, dehydration, or a recent change in caffeine. Allergic Rhinitis and Chronic Sinusitis may cause congestion or facial pressure. A Common Cold or COVID-19 may add fever, cough, sore throat, or tiredness. Heat Exhaustion may follow time outdoors in hot conditions and can include thirst, weakness, nausea, or dizziness.

Consider whether the pain is tight or throbbing, where it sits, and what makes it better or worse. These details help separate a familiar pattern from one that needs a closer examination.

Have water regularly, eat something nourishing, rest your eyes, and keep your neck and shoulders relaxed. A quiet room may help when light or noise is uncomfortable. If you use pain relief, follow the product directions and ask a pharmacist if you have a chronic illness, take other medicines, or are pregnant.

Keep a brief record of the pain and any fever, congestion, nausea, visual symptoms, or dizziness. Arrange a clinician review if it does not begin to improve, keeps returning, or limits work, sleep, or movement.

Call emergency services for sudden explosive pain, new weakness or numbness, difficulty speaking or seeing, confusion, fainting, seizure, or a stiff neck with fever. Seek urgent assessment after a serious head injury, for repeated vomiting, or when the headache is rapidly worsening or accompanied by severe dehydration.

What common triggers fit my symptoms? Could congestion, infection, heat, dehydration, eyesight, or neck tension be involved? Which medicine is appropriate for me, and how long should I wait before arranging a review?