What should you know about herpes headache?

Headache may occur with a Common Cold, COVID-19, Allergic Rhinitis, or Chronic Sinusitis, particularly when congestion or facial pressure is present. Dehydration and Heat Exhaustion can cause headache with thirst, weakness, dizziness, or feeling overheated. Fever and viral illness may also produce head pain. Stress, poor sleep, and Generalised Anxiety Disorder can amplify pain or muscle tension. The location and severity alone cannot identify one cause.

Rest in a cool, quiet place, drink fluids regularly, and eat if you can. Reduce screen glare and avoid strenuous activity while symptoms are active. Keep a record of onset, location, associated fever, congestion, rash, vomiting, light sensitivity, recent heat exposure, and medicines taken. Use a suitable over-the-counter pain reliever only as directed and check with a pharmacist if pregnant, treating another condition, or taking other medicines.

Seek emergency care for a sudden explosive headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, seizure, fainting, confusion, stiff neck with fever, repeated vomiting, vision loss, or a severe headache after a head injury. Get prompt advice for a new persistent headache, one that is worsening, or headache with a new rash or high fever. Heat-related headache with confusion or collapse is an emergency.

What features of my headache matter most? Could congestion, infection, dehydration, heat, or stress be contributing? Which pain medicines are suitable for me? What change should prompt urgent review?