What should you know about an influenza headache?

Influenza activates the immune system, and fever, poor sleep, dehydration and muscle tension can all add to headache. Light sensitivity or nausea may occur, but a sudden severe headache, a stiff neck, confusion or a new weakness is not typical routine flu discomfort. Pneumonia may cause worsening breathing symptoms rather than explaining every headache.

Rest in a quiet room, sip fluids frequently and reduce screen or bright-light exposure if these worsen symptoms. Follow the package directions for an appropriate pain reliever and avoid combining products with the same ingredient. Do not use aspirin for a child or teenager unless a clinician specifically advises it. Treat the broader illness, not only the head pain.

Get urgent help for a sudden explosive headache, stiff neck with fever, confusion, seizure, fainting, new weakness, trouble speaking, repeated vomiting, severe eye pain or breathing difficulty. Contact a clinician if the headache is worsening, persists after other symptoms settle, or occurs in someone pregnant, immunocompromised or living with a significant chronic illness.

Ask which pain medicines are safe with your current medicines, whether dehydration or another diagnosis may be contributing, and which changes should prompt same-day review.