What should you know about nonintractable headache?

The label describes the headache's course rather than identifying one cause. Headaches may occur with tension, poor sleep, skipped meals, dehydration, viral illness, nasal inflammation, heat exposure, or anxiety. [Allergic Rhinitis](/conditions/allergic-rhinitis/) and [Chronic Sinusitis](/conditions/chronic-sinusitis/) can present with facial pressure or headache, while [Common Cold](/conditions/common-cold/) and [COVID-19](/conditions/covid-19/) may include head pain among other symptoms. Most headaches do not point to one specific condition from the symptom alone.

Rest in a quiet place, drink fluids, eat if you have missed a meal, and reduce bright screens while the pain settles. Note when it began, where it is felt, associated symptoms, and anything that improves or worsens it. Use pain medicine only as directed on its label or by a clinician; frequent use can itself contribute to recurring headaches. Consider [Dehydration](/conditions/dehydration/) or [Heat Exhaustion](/conditions/heat-exhaustion/) if fluid loss or heat preceded the pain.

Get emergency help for a sudden severe headache, weakness on one side, trouble speaking, a seizure, fainting, new confusion, stiff neck with fever, or a headache after a significant head injury. Seek prompt advice for a new or changing pattern, repeated vomiting, visual changes, pregnancy-related concerns, or pain that keeps returning despite sensible measures. Fever with a severe headache after travel or mosquito exposure warrants assessment, including consideration of [Dengue Fever](/conditions/dengue-fever/).

Ask what pattern your symptoms suggest, which treatments are suitable, how often pain medicine is safe for you, and whether an examination or further testing is needed.