What should you know about major headache?

Head pain may arise from tension, missed meals, poor sleep, eye strain, heat, or fluid loss. A headache can occur with a common cold, allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, COVID-19, dengue fever, or generalised anxiety disorder. The headache itself does not identify one condition. Note where it hurts, whether it throbs or presses, how quickly it began, and whether fever, vomiting, neck stiffness, rash, weakness, confusion, or vision change is present.

Move to a quiet, cool place and sip fluids if you can keep them down. Rest your eyes, avoid alcohol, and do not drive if you feel faint or your vision is affected. Record the start time and any trigger such as heat, exertion, illness, or a new medicine. Use only a pain medicine that is suitable for you and follow its label; a pharmacist can check interactions and pregnancy or health restrictions.

Seek emergency care for a sudden explosive headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, fainting, seizure, severe confusion, a stiff neck with fever, or a headache after a serious head injury. Arrange prompt medical assessment for a new severe pattern, repeated vomiting, dehydration, a rash, or pain that keeps returning or is worsening.

Ask what features make this headache urgent, whether your medicines or blood pressure could contribute, and which pain-relief options fit your health history. Ask what symptoms should prompt immediate reassessment.