What should you know about hemicranial headache?

Pain may stay around the temple, forehead, eye or back of the head, or spread along one side. It can feel throbbing, pressing, stabbing or burning. Migraine, muscle tension, nasal or sinus irritation, dehydration, heat exposure and viral illness can all be associated with headache. Stress, missed meals, poor sleep, bright light and strong smells may make some headaches worse. A symptom diary noting timing, location, severity, accompanying symptoms and medicines can reveal a useful pattern.

Rest in a quiet, dim room and drink water if you may be dehydrated. Eat a regular meal, limit alcohol and avoid driving if dizziness or visual symptoms are present. Use only pain medicine that is suitable for you and follow its label or a clinician’s advice; frequent use can itself contribute to recurring headaches. Arrange a clinical assessment when headaches are new, repeatedly one-sided, changing pattern or interfering with work and sleep. Nasal symptoms may point toward Allergic Rhinitis or Chronic Sinusitis, while fever or respiratory symptoms can accompany a Common Cold or COVID-19.

Seek emergency help for a sudden, severe headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, confusion, fainting, a seizure, severe eye pain with vision change, or headache after a significant head injury. Urgent assessment is also needed with fever and a stiff neck, repeated vomiting, a new headache during pregnancy, or a headache that is rapidly worsening. Heat Exhaustion and Dengue Fever can also require prompt medical attention when headache occurs with marked weakness, fever or other concerning symptoms.

Could the location and timing suggest migraine, tension, sinus irritation or another cause? Which warning symptoms should prompt emergency care? Is my current pain medicine appropriate, and how often may I use it? Should I keep a headache diary or have further examination?