Mild headache for days: what to know

Headache can accompany a cold, COVID-19, allergic rhinitis or chronic sinusitis, particularly when congestion or facial pressure is present. Dehydration, heat exhaustion, poor sleep, eye strain, stress and muscle tension can also maintain discomfort. Dengue fever is a concern after relevant travel or mosquito exposure when headache comes with fever, marked body aches, rash or bleeding.

The pattern matters: note where the pain is, whether it throbs or presses, what relieves it, and whether fever, blocked nose, vomiting, light sensitivity or neck stiffness is present. A symptom lasting days is not automatically dangerous, but it should not be ignored if unlike your usual headaches.

Drink regularly, eat on schedule and rest your eyes from screens. Gentle neck and shoulder movement, a quiet room and a cool compress may help tension-type discomfort. Follow the label for any over-the-counter pain medicine and avoid taking it repeatedly without advice. Arrange a clinician review if the headache continues, returns often or needs frequent pain relief.

Get emergency help for a sudden explosive headache, new weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, seizure, fainting, severe vision change, stiff neck with fever or repeated vomiting. Seek prompt care for a worsening headache with high fever, rash, unusual bleeding, severe abdominal pain, recent head injury or inability to keep fluids down.

Could congestion, infection, vision strain, blood pressure, sleep or medicine overuse be contributing? Do I need testing based on my travel, fever or other symptoms? What pain-relief plan is suitable for me?