Hemicrania continua headache

This headache pattern stays on one side and may have periods when pain becomes stronger. During flares, a watery or red eye, blocked or runny nostril, sweating or eyelid change can occur on the painful side. Sinus symptoms, dehydration, heat exhaustion, infection and anxiety can also cause headache, so location alone cannot establish the cause.

Record when pain began, whether it ever fully stops, its side, severity, associated eye or nose symptoms, medicines taken and possible triggers. A clinician may examine you and decide whether imaging or specialist review is needed. Do not repeatedly increase painkillers without advice, since frequent use can make headaches harder to manage. Rest, fluids and a cool environment may help ordinary trigger-related pain.

Seek emergency care for a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, confusion, fainting, seizure, vision loss, stiff neck, high fever, repeated vomiting or headache after a significant injury. Get prompt advice for a new persistent one-sided headache, a changing pattern, or headache with pregnancy, cancer or immune-system problems.

Does my pattern fit hemicrania continua or another headache type? Do I need an eye, neurological or sinus examination? Which medicines are safe for me? What diary details would help review treatment?